Flip-Flops Fall Flat

Slipping into your favorite pair of flip flops may seem like the perfect thing to do this summer. Yet podiatrists are now telling us that when worn as the primary shoe, flip-flops are just as bad for our feet as wearing spike heeled stilettos in terms of causing long-term foot problems.

As flip-flops become more fashionable and affordable, more and more people are choosing them as their everyday shoes. They're fun, comfortable and easy to slip on. Yet when worn day in and day out, flip-flops fail to offer our feet the support they need, and the comfort they provide won't last long. When we wear closed toe shoes with good arch support, our feet become dependent on that. And then when we wear flip-flops, our feet have no support, causing the ligaments and tendons to work harder. After several summers of repeated wear, it can catch up with you.

The solution? Moderation. Flip-flops are great to wear by the pool, or for a few hours at a time. During the day when you have your shoes on and are doing a lot of walking, choose sandals that will give you some support. There are many great styles to choose from that have the same easy feeling flip-flops do, but they will be infinitely better for your feet.

Here are a few alternatives:
The Columbia-Altamont Thong:



Privo by Clarks - Petra Thong:



Adjustable Thong from Minnetonka: