I tapped foot doctors for flip-flop do’s and don’ts
Zendaya and Jennifer Lawrence are flipping the script on flip-flops.
The summer shoe style has always been a bit controversial. Podiatrists often warn that they’re too flat, too flimsy, and don’t offer enough support — they’re fine for the pool, but not great for logging serious steps. Even so, the actresses are making a strong case for the sandal’s comeback.
Last week, Zendaya stepped out in a sleek black pair while grabbing burgers with Tom Holland, which came shortly after Lawrence styled flip-flops with floral pants and an oversized cardigan. Rarely one to forgo comfort for a trend, I asked three foot experts what actually makes the seasonal style wearable beyond the beach. With their insights in mind, I rounded up supportive flip-flops for as little as $13 at Amazon.
Expert- and Podiatrist-Approved Flip-Flops
- Dr. Sharkey’s Pick: Revitalign Winnie Shimmer Flip-Flops, $25–$90
- Dr. McDowell’s Pick: FitFlop iQushion Flip-Flops with Contoured Footbed, $38 (orig. $46)
- Dr. Schottenstein’s Pick: Archies Arch Support Flip-Flops, $40
More Flip-Flops with Arch Support
- Inspired by Zendaya: Aerothotic Flip-Flips, $40 (orig. $50)
- Inspired by Jennifer: Eagsouni Flip-Flops, $13
- Best-Selling Style: KuaiLu Flip-Flops, $16 (orig. $23)
- 100% Leather: Vionic Tide Flip-Flops, $61-$95
- Cushioned and Lightweight: Clarks Breeze Sea Flip-Flops, $34 (orig. $55)
Related: Zoë Kravitz’s Luxe Ballet Flats Look Just Like This $22 Pair with ‘Arch Support and Cushioning Like No Other’
Aerothotic Flip-Flips
$50 $40 at Amazon
If you like Zendaya’s take on flip-flops, this pair gives you a similar look with a bit more support. The contoured footbed takes pressure off your heels and keeps your steps feeling more stable — especially if you’re on your feet for a while. One shopper with “severe[ly] flat feet” said the arch support felt comfortable and stable, “without feeling like you have a quarter of a tennis ball under your arch!”
According to Milica McDowell, a doctor of physical therapy and author of Walk, arch support is key:
““Since flip-flops do not have any structure behind your heel, the muscles in your feet have to work overtime when you’re wearing them, so having arch support helps take a little bit of the burden off those muscles.””
Eagsouni Flip-Flops
$13 at Amazon
This budget-friendly pair has the same laid-back feel as Lawrence’s shoes, and it works well for quick outings or casual days. The flip-flops are made with a high-elastic EVA midsole, which board-certified podiatrist Dr. Anne Sharkey points to as a green flag: “When looking at the midsole of the sandal, those constructed with EVA are more shock-absorbing than foam materials, which collapse quickly.”
That said, I found a pair that strikes an ever closer resemblance to Lawrence’s, but it appears to be a bit flatter, which our experts advise against.
““Avoid wearing flip-flops that can be easily folded in half or twisted like a dish towel. If the shoe can easily do this, it isn't providing any structural support for your foot,” explains Sharkey.”
FitFlop iQushion Flip-Flops with Contoured Footbed
$46 $38 at Amazon
These are a smart pick if you want something lightweight that still feels supportive. The contoured footbed distributes pressure more evenly, so your feet are less likely to feel fatigued after a long day.
Dr. McDowell is a fan of the FitFlop brand, noting, “They do a great job of providing arch support and a responsive yet somewhat stiffer sole, which helps to transfer force when you're walking in a shoe that does not have any strap behind the heel.”
Archies Arch Support Flip-Flops
$40 at Amazon
Double board-certified podiatrist Dr. Julie Schottenstein appreciates this pair for having a flip-flop look “without flip-flop pain, and with much better support.” She adds, “They actually have a good arch that is firm and structured, a heel cup to give stability, and cushion for shock absorption.”
Bonus: They’re lightweight and available in fun colors, which is a shoe trend we’ve spotted on celebrities lately.
Related: Teachers Give These $24 Sneakers an A+ in Comfort — They’re the ‘Perfect Shoes’ for Standing All Day
What to Look for and Avoid in Flip-Flops, According to Podiatrists
Look for:
- Contoured footbed with arch support
- A deep heel cup for stability
- Cushioning for shock absorption
Avoid:
- Flimsy materials that bend easily
- Flat, unsupportive footbeds
- Poor fit or incorrect sizing
As Dr. Schottenstein explains, “when the foot is working so hard because the shoe itself is not supportive and just flimsy, this can lead to toe-grabbing and contractions like hammertoes and forefoot pain.”
When buying flip-flops, find a pair that supports your feet just as well as it complements your outfit. Shop more comfortable, podiatrist-approved styles below.
KuaiLu Flip-Flops
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Clarks Breeze Sea Flip-Flops
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Revitalign Winnie Shimmer Flip-Flops $27 at Amazon |
Vionic Tide Flip-Flops
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