The thing about traditional flat flip-flops is they don’t do anything to support your feet. They can even cause you to develop foot conditions like plantar fasciitis, tendonitis, or general foot pain because there’s no cushioning to protect your heel.
How to find the best flip-flops with arch support
Yes, you can rock flip-flops (cute ones, too!) without your feet having to pay the price. However, there are sandal features that you should keep in mind to make that possible. For one, your flip-flops should never be paper-thin (unless you’re wearing them exclusively as shower shoes at the gym). In other words, if the flip-flops can easily break, they can easily damage your feet. Here are three other tips to keep in mind while shopping:
Choose a pair that matches your foot arch.
Flip-flops feel different for each person, mainly due to your foot arch. Think of it this way: If you have a high arch, you need flip-flops with a similar high arch. If you have a flat arch, you need flip-flops with a lower arch. “You want a flip-flop that supports your arch type,” explains Saylee Tulpule, D.P.M., a podiatrist at the Foot and Ankle Specialists of the Mid-Atlantic in Washington, D.C. Most people have a normal-to-flat arch, says Dr. Tulpule, adding that you can tell if a flip-flop matches your arch by simply trying them on. “It should just immediately feel comfortable—like a perfect match,” Dr. Tulpule explains.
Opt for contoured footbeds.
The footbed shape should follow your natural foot shape, Dr. Andersen says. Contoured footbeds are ideal because the molding tends to fit feet better. This type of footbed is often made of cork or natural latex and provides even distribution of your weight across the shoe. A contoured footbed is also more comfortable, because they consistently support your foot alignment while also helping to prevent painful injuries like shin splints and collapsed arches.
Consider rubber soles.
A sandal’s sturdiness matters too. Your flip-flops should not only withstand normal wear and tear, but they should also have a strong sole that keeps you from tripping, falling, and twisting your ankle, says Dr. Tulpule. Flip-flops with rubber soles support and comfort your feet, allowing you to walk on all surfaces without stumbling around. Most rubber soles are also waterproof, meaning you don’t have to worry about slipping and sliding. Now that you know what to look for in a flip-flop with arch support, you’re ready to go shopping! Check out our favorite podiatrist-approved picks below.
Aerothotic Original Orthotic Comfort Flip-Flops
These water-resistant flip-flops have a wedge heel to provide arch support in the midsoles. Wear them while lounging poolside or at the beach, or pair them with a super chic outfit for a cookout. Unlike other flip-flops, this pair has a leather-cushioned thong that makes them comfortable to wear all day long. “These slippers are surprisingly light, comfortable, and durable,” one reviewer raves. “They don’t squeak and provide the perfect arch support for someone [with flat feet].”
OOFOS OOlala Sandals
Olukai Ohana Flip-Flops
These supportive flip-flops are made with a water-resistant strap and quick-dry lining, so you can can go from the beach to the street in comfort. They also come in a wide variety of summer-ready colors that are sure to brighten up any look. A Nordstrom reviewer says: “I have arthritis in my feet and it’s a pleasure to find these. They are comfortable out of the box. They will go on vacation with me. I purchased the light color and love them.”
Teva Voya Flip-Flops
Teva claims these flip-flops are best for all-day walking. This style is cushioned, extremely durable, molds to your feet, and dries quickly for comfy, slip-resistant wear. Best of all, the entire shoe is recyclable and the webbing is made from recycled plastic—preventing two plastic bottles from winding up in landfills. “These are so comfortable!” one reviewer writes. “I like how they have a good arch support, squishy bounce, and cute fabric.”
Clarks Breeze Sea Flip-Flops
These ultra-lightweight flip-flops will be ready to wear right out of the box—no breaking in required. The synthetic rubber sole ensures proper grip, the OrthoLite footbed hugs the arch, while the soft textile lining keeps uncomfortable rubbing at bay. Even better, you can snag these in a variety of fun, eye-catching colors. One reviewer raves: “I just want you to know these are extremely comfortable! They have a very cushy insole which is very important for those of us whose feet aren’t what they used to be! The insole gives enough so my feet are not [in pain] even when I wear these all day.”
Vionic Bella II Flip-Flops
This ergonomic sandal has earned the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance, a rare honor given to shoes that meet the organization’s strict standards for promoting foot health. We love the stylish bow on the straps and the half-inch heel, which gives you a little more support than a complete flat. It also has contoured arches to match the curves of your feet. Comfort, meet style. One reviewer writes: “This is the first pair of flip-flops I’ve been able to wear without getting a blister between my toes! They’re very comfortable and cute enough to wear with dressier clothes. Plus, I have high arches and they support them perfectly. I can wear them for hours!”
Birkenstock Gizeh EVA Flip-Flops
With narrow- and medium-width sizes, this pair of Birkenstocks can accommodate a variety of feet. The contoured, flexible insoles adjusts to the shape of your foot, while cradling every curve around your arches. The cork footbed also helps to absorb shock, and the raised toe bar naturally supports the way you move your feet. A Zappos reviewer who has plantar fasciitis and high arches says, “These Birkenstocks have helped me get my problem under control.” Another reviewer says: “They fit like a glove and are very lightweight. I have wide feet and they aren’t an issue. The arch support is great.”
Crocs Women’s Swiftwater Flip-Flops
Vionic Kirra Backstrap Flip-Flops
Classy meets casual in this flip-flop with an ankle strap. The microfiber footbed absorbs shock to help reduce muscle imbalances and knee pain, while the durable outsole has superior traction that can withstand a variety a surfaces. Vionic’s flip-flops are designed to cradle your arches, and these sandals have a built-in orthotic to help keep plantar fasciitis pain at bay.
FitFlop Surfa Flip-Flops
OluKai ‘Aukai Flip-Flops
Say hello to your new go-to beach sandal. This neutral pick is understated enough to go with every look, but the high-quality, soft leather offers a chic, elevated take on your standard flip-flop. The upper has a breathable, microfiber lining for a comfy fit, the anatomical footbed ensures all-day support, and the rubber outsole is designed with traction and durability in mind. “These are so buttery soft,” one Zappos reviewer writes. “I have a very high arch—these were amazing right out of box. I came back to order another color!”
Reef Ortho-Bounce Woven Flip-Flops
Reef’s sandals are stylish and supportive. The cushioned footbed softly cups the heel while offering enhanced arch support to absorb shock with each step you take. The rubber outsole has flex grooves for added durability and traction, and the woven strap upper is made from recycled material with vegan leather detailing. Reviewers rave about the comfort these offer, but recommend ordering a size up to ensure the best fit. “Not only are these super cute, they are sturdy,” one Zappos customer writes.
Crocs Classic II Flip-Flop
If you’re a fan of color, you’ll love these bright flip-flops from Crocs—which are popular for a reason. The brand’s Croslite foam cushions and supports the arches for cloud-like comfort, while the textured heel gives some slip resistance. Best of all, these are incredibly easy to clean, making them a great do-it-all sandal for everyday wear, even if you’re working in the yard. Reviwers say they’re “easy to wear,” “fit great,” and feel like you’re “walking on air.”
Rainbow Sandals Premier Leather Flip-Flop
Chaco Lowdown Flip-Flops
This simple, low-profile style is everything you’d want in a flip-flop with arch support. They’re easy to travel with, built to be worn around water, and designed with EVA cushioning and a contoured arch to keep your feet feeling healthy and happy. “Love love love this flip-flop! It has a narrow footbed, so it doesn’t look clunky,” one Zappos reviewer writes. “The straps are tighter than some flip-flops, which is awesome for me because I always have a problem with my feet sliding around. The arch is excellent.”
Reef Fanning Flip-Flops
This pair of slides is ideal for all of your outdoor adventures. They feature great arch support and a cushioned heel, but best of all—the sole comes with a built-in bottle opener. Yep, you read that right. “I’ve worn Fannings for years. The only slippers that don’t hurt my bad back,” one customer reviewer writes. “Love love love them.”
