For most of us sandals and flip flops are the perfect footwear. They are comfortable, easy to put on, and breathable. But how can we know we are wearing the right type? First of all, wearing the same pair of flip flops for years will show signs of severe wear, if that’s your case it is best to discard your old pair as they could be detrimental for your health and could lead to corns, calluses, foot and lower back pain.
If you are planning to hit the mall soon in search of a new pair of flip flops, you might want to know a few basics to choose the right type for you. First of all, search for a sandal that is made of high-quality soft materials as this minimizes the risk of blisters. You can also gently bend the flip flop to ensure it bends at the ball of the foot. When trying it on, be sure that your ankle rests comfortably on the sole and that your toes don’t hang off the edge. You should also have some space at the end of the footbed so your heel isn’t hanging off either. It’s common for feet to swell when temperatures rise, so be sure to leave a little bit of wiggle room.
Sandals and flip flops are designed to feel and look good, but that doesn’t mean they are necessarily good for your feet. Arch support is critical for foot health, comfort, and relief. So don’t fall for brands that sacrifice arch support to be lighter in weight. Steer clear of poorly made sandals and choose one that will give your feet appropriate support and cushioning.
The most important part of any shoe is the sole, and even more so when it comes to flip flops because soles tend to be thinner, meaning that your foot is likely to take more impact with each step. It is important to find a shoe with a supported or shock-absorbing sole, molding them to the shape of your foot, preventing blisters and fallen arches.
When it comes to your flip flop’s strap, you should look for a pair that have a suede/leather upper, because thinner, stylish straps are generally made with rubber and won’t be the most comfortable. That’s why when it comes to comfort and support, you want to choose a genki style flip flop over the traditional kind. Why? Because it has a wider and softer Y-shaped strap that goes over your foot and between your big and second toe, eliminating the discomfort you might feel between your toes after walking long distances. This is especially relevant for those with imbalance, heel pain, and plantar fasciitis.
We recognize that the notion of comfort is different for each person, but your feet and your body will pay you back dividends for giving them the anatomical support they need.