11 Best Flip-Flops for Summer 2024

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Yet another supportive flip-flop approved by the APMA, the Aetrex Maui is made for all-day comfort. The foam sole absorbs the impact of your steps while mapping the shape of your foot. There’s plenty of support in the midfoot, and the rearfoot helps take the pressure off of your heels. According to reviewers, it’s especially well-suited for people with high arches: “I have a high arch and they fit perfectly,” one wrote. “My feet feel so good when I wear them.” Headed to the pool? Bring them along—they’re light enough to float.Sizes: US 5 to 11 | Widths: Medium | Weight: 4 ounces | Materials: EVA, foamShould anyone avoid wearing flip-flops?You can’t knock flip-flops for their laid-back style and convenience, but they aren’t always the best choice for your feet, Elizabeth Daughtry, DPM, FACFAS, a podiatrist based in North Carolina, tells SELF. “Flip-flops can be comfortable and stylish, but should also be used sparingly,” she says. Most pairs don’t provide enough support and shock absorption to keep your feet comfortable in the long-term, so they shouldn’t be your go-to shoe for days with a lot of walking or strenuous activities.Beyond that, you may want to avoid wearing flip-flops if you have issues with balance, Dr. Daughtry says—instead, she recommends a supportive sandal with a secure strap system. People with diabetes should also be wary, Erik Sims, DPM, managing partner of Sims & Associates Podiatry in New York, tells SELF. He explains that flip-flops can easily chafe and create blisters, which may turn into open wounds. As SELF has previously reported, people with type 2 diabetes are more susceptible to infections in their feet, so it’s important to check them regularly for cuts and wear shoes that won’t cause irritation.What should you look for in a good pair of flip-flops?With all that being said, flip-flops can come in handy in the summertime—Dr. Daughtry likes them for running errands, walking around the house, and going to the beach or pool—you just need to find the right pair.Dr. Sims recommends looking for ones with firmer soles, arch support, and deep heel cups (which will cradle your heel and help the shoe fit better). Dr. Daughtry says it’s also helpful if there’s a groove for your toes. This can help your foot stay in the flip-flop and prevent you from subconsciously gripping in your toes and forefoot, which can contribute to foot pain and plantar fasciitis.Overall, it’s probably most important that your flip-flops feel sturdy—avoid any that feel thin, flimsy, or totally flat, Dr. Daughtry says. As SELF has previously reported, if you can bend the shoe in half, it’s not structured enough to support your foot (but it should still make a great fly swatter).Related Reading:

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