These are the comfiest flip-flops, according to a podiatrist
Flip-flops have a bad reputation for messing up your feet. But it turns out that there are plenty of flip-flops on Amazon that are actually supportive and comfortable — and look good.
"Flip-flops have come a long way," Melissa Lockwood, DPM, a podiatrist at Heartland Foot & Ankle Associates in Bloomington, Ill., tells Yahoo Life. "There are some really good ones out there now that don't look orthopedic but still give you good arch support."
If you're looking for a new pair of flip-flops, Lockwood recommends steering clear of flat ones that don't have a strong bottom. If you can easily bend the base of your flip-flop, that's an issue. "That will be almost like you're walking barefoot," she says.
Instead, look for flip-flops with at least a quarter-inch to a half-inch of arch support on the bottom. "They should not be completely flat," Lockwood says. Ideally, you also want something with a thick, sturdy thong, too, to help your toes get a comfortable grip.
Not sure where to look? Lockwood says elements found in these sandals, all available at Amazon, are great.
These flip-flops can take you anywhere. The Crocs Kadie II Flip-Flops are lightweight and fun, and they feature Croslite foam for all-day support, which gets the thumbs up from Lockwood. Their little grips also keep your foot from slipping around while you walk.
These sandals — which have garnered over 11,500 five-star ratings — are beloved by shoppers for their comfortable and supportive fit. The hand-braided nylon cord contours to your foot while ensuring they don't slip and slide, even at the beach. The sole provides plenty of arch support. If walking on air was a shoe, these would be it.
Available in 23 styles, these sandals have thousands of fans for good reason. For starters, they're made of repurposed yoga mats and are entirely vegan. Plus, they're just as comfortable as that feeling you get when you sink into Savasana at the end of your practice.
"I love, love, love these sandals!" shared a shopper. "I keep coming back to them and repurchasing. I always buy them for myself and as gifts. The reason why I keep returning is due to the complete comfort and support they hold. I can wear them all day anywhere. I have actually gone hiking in these babies and did not slip a bit."
Lockwood gives Birkenstocks the thumbs up for their support, as do more than 2,000 five-star fans. These Honolulu EVA flip-flops have a contoured footbed with four arches to help with weight distribution, along with a circulation-stimulating raised toe bar and a heel-cradling cup.
In case you're not familiar with the brand, Vionic shoes were founded by a podiatrist who wanted to craft comfortable, stylish and supportive shoes for his patients. These particular sandals have received the American Podiatric Medical Association Seal of Acceptance, meaning they're good for your feet. The podiatrist-designed footbed is built in, promoting stability, and they come in a range of colors. "Vionic shoes are amazing," Lockwood says. "I tell everyone to go for them."
These flip-flops feature Oofoam technology to help cushion your feet while you walk. The brand's special tech also absorbs 37% more impact than regular flip-flop foam. A patented footbed cradles your arches to minimize stress on your feet, knees and back. "These are my latest favorite," Lockwood says. "They last a long time and have a great footbed."
These Vionic flip-flops have a pretty perforated upper for a dressier look and come in a range of colors. They also feature the brand's Vio-Motion support and next-level arch support for a feel you probably haven't had with flip-flops before. "Vionics are stylish—and they give you support," Lockwood says.
Lockwood's go-brand Vionic also makes these unisex flip-flops — and they have hidden orthotic arch support. These sandals have the APMA Seal of Acceptance and feature a durable rubber outsole to help you get a grip, no matter the terrain. Choose from a range of neutral shades.
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The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.