Flip-flops are still a summer staple for keeping feet cool in hot weather, and this season’s fashion trends have brought updated styles, including kitten-heel versions that combine casual comfort with a more polished look.
The kitten-heel flip-flop has gained popularity as it provides a modest lift and is easy to wear, says fashion trend forecaster Angela Baidoo. But style is only part of the conversation. Foot health experts say the impact of flip-flops depends a lot on how and how often they are worn.
Dr Helen Branthwaite, a podiatrist and chief clinical adviser for the Royal College of Podiatry, says it’s not true that flip-flops are bad for people’s feet.
But as she explains, problems can arise when someone suddenly switches their much more supportive footwear for flat, little-supportive flip-flops and wears them for extended periods of time. This sudden change can place extra stress on the muscles, tendons and joints of the feet, increasing the chances of discomfort or injury.
"Over time, wearing shoes without support can also lead to changes in the shape of the foot, especially when the foot naturally spreads out under load," Branthwaite says.
Selecting More Supportive Summer Sandals
If you’re looking for comfortable summer footwear, experts say skip the thin foam soles and opt for sandals with better arch support and more structured footbeds.
Baidoo recommends sturdier flip-flops with contoured soles and footbed sandals and clogs that provide extra support. “Styles like orthopaedic-inspired sandals and classic wooden clogs are back in fashion, providing practical options for those who spend long hours on their feet,” she says.
Fisherman sandals are an alternative that provides a more structured look and more coverage for the foot and are ideal for casual and smart casual wear.
Minimalist or “barefoot” shoes are also popular, but Branthwaite says don’t leap right into them. Wearing minimalist footwear for long walks or strenuous activity without giving the feet time to adapt may increase the likelihood of strain.
Summer Tips for Healthier Feet
Branthwaite says there are some simple actions you can take to reduce your risk of foot problems in the warmer months:
Opt for sandals with supportive, tough soles instead of very flexible foam ones.
Are your shoes supportive enough for the regular stuff?
Keep an eye out for dry skin, cracked heels and brittle toenails on your feet, as these can become more common when wearing open shoes.
Use a moisturising cream with urea or another suitable emollient to help keep your skin hydrated.
Check your feet from time to time; the size and shape of feet can change.
Flip-flops are still great for quick wear, but podiatrists say wearing them in rotation with more supportive shoes can ease the strain on your feet and make you feel more comfortable in the long run.
