As flip flop season ramps up, it’s important to keep in mind that not all of them are created equally, according to Vionic Innovation Lab expert and NYC podiatrist Dr. Jackie Sutera.
Why are traditional flip flops so bad? “You have to over-grip when you’re wearing these shoes, because there’s no backstrap,” says Dr. Jackie. There is a myriad of issues that can arise from this, including stress fractures, heel pain, bunions and hammer toes.
What can you do to mitigate the risks? “Stay away from the really thin ones that we all have in every color because they’re so inexpensive and cute,” instead favoring the styles “with a thicker sole, heavier straps and a little bit of arch support.”
Above all, Dr. Jackie urges us to remember that traditional flip flops should be worn in moderation. “They’re really made for at the beach and poolside,” she says, not a long day of exploring or errand-running.
If you’re looking for a great pair of women’s flip flops with arch support to keep you moving in comfort and style, check out Vionic’s range of comfortable walking sandals.
Need even more of a reason to try our orthotic sandals? A recent groundbreaking study shows that Vionic sandals effectively alleviate heel pain!*
*Based on a peer-reviewed clinical study partially funded by Vionic on people experiencing moderate, non-traumatic heel pain. Vionic contoured sandals were shown to be comparable in effectiveness to Vionic orthotic inserts.