Breathable shoes are a must for warm weather. The freedom your toes feel in a pair of flip-flops can feel super relieving, whether you're strutting out of the salon with a fresh pedicure or hitting the sandy shores during a particular hot stretch. But the thong-like sandals can cause a series of issues that will make you run to your closed-toe shoes in a matter of seconds.
While this type of footwear cannot be replaced with more supportive walking shoes, you can get away with many brands that offer ample comfort. From recovery-style flip-flops to more with cushioned footbeds, Shop TODAY talked to board-certified foot surgeons Dr. Brad Schaeffer and Dr. Miguel Cunha to find the best qualities and styles.
Best flip-flop materials | Benefits of flip-flops | Are flip-flops bad for your feet? | When should you avoid flip-flops? | Features to look for | Expert-recommended flip-flops | Editor-loved flip-flops | How we chose | Meet the experts
Best materials for flip-flops
Choosing the right material is essential for shoppers looking to buy long lasting flip-flops. Our experts say ethylene vinyl acetate, also known as EVA, is one of the best materials for flip-flops because this foam material it’s comfortable, lightweight, flexible and water resistant.
Other synthetic materials to look for are PVC (polyvinyl chloride) or TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane).
“These materials are commonly used in the production of flip flops because they are durable, water resistant, easy to clean and more affordable than leather,” Cunha explains.
The rubber-like material neoprene also offers a soft and stretchy support for your feet, and it dries quickly, making it comfortable to wear and ideal for water-related activities.
If you prefer an organic material, our experts suggest leather or cork flip-flops. Cunha says “cork offers natural moisture-wicking properties and customized support as they mold to the shape of your feet over time.”
What are the benefits of wearing flip-flops?
Our experts say convenience is the number one benefit of flip-flops. Their practical design allows you to easily slip them on and off, and their breathability makes them the perfect shoes for warm weather.
The right flip-flop can also help maintain your foot health. Cunha suggests wearing flip-flops in “shared bathing areas and gym facilities to prevent the transmission of microorganisms like fungus, bacteria and viruses that can cause conditions such as athlete's foot, fungal nails, foot odor and warts.”
While Schaffer is not a fan of flip-flops, he mentions that the most important thing is to find a flip-flop that offers good support. "You need one that has the right amount of cushioning and rigidity," he says.
Features to look for when shopping for flip-flops
If you don't own the right pair of flip-flops, your feet can have potential issues such as plantar fasciitis and overpronation. Podiatrist Dr. Kaitlyn Ward suggests following these tips when shopping for flip-flops.
- Arch support: "Choose flip-flops with good arch support to help maintain the natural alignment of your feet and reduce strain on your arches."
- Cushioning: "Look for flip-flops with adequate cushioning to absorb shock and reduce pressure on the feet."
- Footbed design: "A contoured footbed that mimics the natural shape of your foot can provide better support and comfort.
- Straps: "Opt for flip-flops with sturdy, comfortable straps that do not cause irritation or blisters. Straps that secure around the back of the heel can provide added stability."
Expert-recommended flip-flops
iQusion Ergnomic flip-flops
- Supportive midsole technology
- Run slightly small
Size: 5-11 | Colors: 7 | Sole material: EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate)
These ergonomic flip-flops are some of the best on the market earning them the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) stamp of approval. The ultra-lightweight and flexible material is made for sensitive feet as the comfort technology allow for natural foot movement as you strut through the day.
“They are designed with a anatomically contoured footbed made with extra foam cushioning that provides superior shock absorption and rebound with ever step,” Cunha says.
Clarks Breeze Sea
- Adjustable straps
- Narrow fit
Size: 5-12 | Colors: 41 | Sole material: TPR (thermoplastic rubber), EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) midsole
Clarks shows shoppers that you don’t have to sacrifice style for support. Elevate your summer ensemble with this colorful — and comfortable — flip-flop from Clarks. This lightweight pair offers feminine details with intricate detailing on the strap and cushioned footbed that feels like stepping on the clouds.
The Breeze Sea flip-flops, which are recommended by Cunha, come in over 40 colors and have adjustable straps to give you a more personalized fit. These stylish sandals are designed to absorbs shock, reducing stress on feet, ankles and knees.
Oofos Ooriginal Sandal
- Good for planters fasciitis
- Machine Washable
- Runs right around toes
Size: 5-11 | Colors: 5 | Sole material: Oofoam™
Have flat feet? These sandals, which Cunha recommends, are designed to cradle your foot and are engineered with the Oofos' arch technology that absorbs 37% more impact than other footwear, according to the brand. Reviewers have turned to these shoes as durable and reliable options for any outdoor adventures.
Ascent The Groove Flip-Flops
- elieves muscle stress
- Elevated heel
Size: 6-11 | Colors: 5 | Sole material: N/A
Cunha says Ascent’s flip-flops provide superior arch support to prevent overpronation and relieve pain particularly in people suffering from plantar fasciitis.
“These flip flops have a uniquely designed plantar fascial groove and built-in orthotic arch support, which naturally molds to the shape of the foot,” he explains. “The top footbed layer provides excellent cushioning while a firm, durable sole and elevated heel lift corrects foot posture to reduce muscle strain and fatigue.”
Vionic Bella Toe Post Sandal -
- Wide and narrow width options
- APMA Seal of Acceptance
- Loose straps
Size: 5-12 | Colors: 12 | Sole material: EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate)
Vionic’s Bella Toe Post sandal, recommended by Cunha, was made for the style icon who loves comfort. The flexible shock absorbing EVA midsole and built in orthotic in these flip-flops earned them recognition from the APMA.
The contoured footbed of these Vionic flip-flops help provide ultimate comfort and support during warm days. Also, this style looks more elegant than many pairs of recovery sandals, thanks to the cork upper and microfiber-covered footbed. Plus, there's even a supportive rubber sole.
Birkenstick Gizeh Birko-Flor
- Narrow and wide width options
- APMA Seal of Acceptance
- Lack of larger sizes
Size: 5-7.5 | Colors: 2 | Sole material: EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate)
Birkenstocks have been shoppers go-to sandal brand for decades because of their durability and timeless design, and this pair in particular is recommended by Cunha. The leather upper and cork footbed contour around your feet to provide support for years to come. The brand’s signature metal buckle allows these thong sandals to be adjusted for a perfect fit.
Editor-loved flip-flops
Roxy Gabbie Flip-Flops
- Run true to size
- Minimal arch support
Size: 5-12 | Colors: 1 | Sole material: Synthetic faux leather lining, rubber outsole
Francesca Cocchi Zabloudil can’t live without these flip-flops for their simplicity and versatility when it comes to pairing them with different summer outfits.
“I grew up by the beach and have always lived in flip-flops every summer — I refuse to give them up! This minimalist tan pair is my current favorite. They’re casual enough to wear to the beach, but I like that the soft faux-leather material looks nicer than rubber or plastic, so I can also wear them with white jeans and a tank or tee for dinner,” says Cocchi Zabloudil.
ABEO Laguna Sandal
- Contour to your feet
- Very comfortable
- They can run big
Size: 5-12 | Colors: 14 | Sole material: Rubber outsole
This is one of my [Espinal] favorite brands for its comfort technology and sturdy outsole. I have worn these flip-flops at the beach, pool and vacation outings without feeling fatigue or foot pain. They have arch support and a thick thongs that hold your feet into the footbed.
Plus, I've walked miles in them and they continue to look like new. They're easy to wipe off and clean if you need a quick footwear restoration.
Rainbow Leather Sandals
- Made with real leather
- Last a long time
- They run narrow
Size: 5.5-11.5 | Colors: 14 | Sole material: Rubber outsole
Deputy editorial director Alexandra Deabler has been wearing Rainbow flip-flops since high school.
"These have arch support. I’ve been wearing them since high school (they were all the rage in California in the 2000s). However, they are pretty narrow. So I don’t know how well they’d work for someone with wide feet," says Deabler.
Hari Mari Women's Fields
- They are durable
- Feel lightweight
- Minimal arch support
Size: 6-11 | Colors: 6 | Sole material: Rubber outsole
"These are the perfect pair of go-with-everything flip-flops. The straps and footbeds are neutral leather, but have fun pops of color on the soles — I went with a 'fig' red," says associate editor Lauren Witonsky.
While Witonsky finds these to have minimal support, I also consider these to feature a light construction with a cushioned footbed that allows for easy movement.
"They’re super lightweight and comfortable right out of the box, which is why they’re the only pair I brought with me for the trip I’m on!"
Flirty Braidy Rainbow Sandal
- Very durable
- Can get wet
- They stain easily
Size: 5.5-11 | Colors: 12 | Sole material: Memory foam, rubber outsole
Similar to Deabler, Witonsky has also owned a pair of Rainbow sandals since she was in high school, proving their durability after all these years thanks to their leather material. With single layer arch support and crafted with premium leather, they’re bound to provide comfort and longevity.
Witonsky notes that they’re “so comfy,” and while they’re nearing the point of no return, she’s “wearing them until a strap breaks.”
Vionic Tide RX Recovery Sandal
- Heel cup
- Very sturdy
- Can get wet
- Can get dirty quick
Size: 5-14 | Colors: 11 | Sole material: EVA
I [Espinal] recently received this pair and have been wearing them after a workout or a long day in the office. I love the slight elevation and cushioning the footbed feels. These flip-flops are meant for post-recovery but they are also made to massage your feet while you walk, thanks to the etched details on the footbeds.
How we chose
We asked podiatrists for the best materials and features to look for in flip flops, and we selected those based on customers' preferences, editors' favorites and top-rated flip-flops. Many with arch support were selected as a main feature to help keep your arches from collapsing while wearing flip-flops.
Meet the experts
- Dr. Brad Schaeffer is a board-certified foot and ankle surgeon based in NYC. He has been featured in other Shop TODAY pieces including shoes for high arches and best boots for winter.
- Dr. Miguel Cunha is a foot and ankle surgeon based in New York City. Cunha has experience in a wide array of foot and ankle conditions, including reconstructive surgery.
- Dr. Kaitlyn Ward is a board-certified podiatrist and foot and ankle surgeon who’s also the resident expert at ZenToes, a brand focused on finding solutions for bunions, dry skin, toe care and more.
