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Flip-flops have long been a go-to choice for keeping feet cool and comfortable in hot weather, and this summer they have received a fashionable update. Angela Baidoo, a fashion expert and trend forecaster, recommends wearing flip-flops with a kitten heel as the trendiest option. She notes, “It’s not a high heel and it’s really kind of easy to just slip in and slip out of.” Despite this revival, flip-flops often face criticism for not providing enough support and potentially causing foot problems. But is that criticism warranted?
According to Baidoo, while flip-flops generally lack arch and joint support, many people are now opting for customized versions that offer better comfort without sacrificing convenience. Dr. Helen Branthwaite, a podiatrist and chief clinical adviser at the Royal College of Podiatry, disagrees with the blanket statement that flip-flops are harmful. She explains that the main issue arises when someone switches abruptly from wearing highly structured footwear to mainly wearing flip-flops. This sudden change puts extra strain on the feet, increasing the risk of injury. She likens the foot’s adaptation to the removal of a corset: “The foot does start to change shape and tends to splay a little bit over time,” she says.
For those seeking alternatives that combine comfort and style while offering better support, Baidoo suggests sturdier, contoured flip-flops such as FitFlops, which stand apart from the common flat and thin foam designs. She also highlights that sliders are falling out of favor with younger generations in preference for Crocs, which, although considered “anti-fashion,” are orthopedically designed for comfort. Footbed sandals like Birkenstocks and wooden clogs, known for their use by professionals who spend long hours on their feet, are also gaining popularity again. Wedges provide another option, offering ankle support and a flattering silhouette, especially appreciated by those in the plus-size category.
Another alternative mentioned is the fisherman-style sandal, which Baidoo describes as a versatile option suitable for men and women. “Men can wear it as an alternative to a loafer. It’s not as casual as a flip-flop,” she says, emphasizing its suitability for environments where flip-flops may be too informal. On the topic of minimalist barefoot shoes, Dr. Branthwaite advises a gradual transition to avoid injury, cautioning against immediately undertaking long walks in a new pair. She also offers practical advice for foot health, recommending paying attention to shoe sole materials, avoiding excessively flexible flip-flops, moisturizing feet regularly, and getting their size measured frequently since foot size can change over time
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