Wearing Flip Flops All Summer, Yea or Nay?

Dr. Belinda Dotter

Flip flops and sandals are increasingly the shoes of choice during the summer. The crop of new styles and funky designs have made them very common and popular.  But are they good or bad for our feet?

Flip flops can give us basic protection when out by the poolside, for example, protecting our feet from the hot floor.  They can also prevent athlete's foot or plantar warts while in public places like showers, pool areas, and locker rooms.  However, flip flop use during extensive walking is not so great because they offer no arch support, heel cushioning, or shock absorption.  We can suffer foot pain due to lack of arch support, tendinitis, and even sprained ankles if we trip. Also, don’t wear the same pair of flip flops year after year. If they are worn out, make sure you throw them out.

Many of us start out relieved at being able to come home or get to the weekend so we can ditch our work shoes and put on some comfortable flip flops, only to want to throw them away after several hours of activity.  So, wear them in moderation.  Short periods of time is acceptable, just don't overdo it!