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Summer’s Almost Here, But You Should Know This About Your Flip-Flops

Podiatry Hotline Foot & Ankle Blog Summer’s Almost Here, But You Should Know This About Your Flip-Flops
Summer’s Almost Here, But You Should Know This About Your Flip-Flops

With summer right around the corner, you’re already thinking about kicking off your shoes, putting on flip-flops, and heading to the beach. It’s okay to wear flip-flops for short periods poolside, but spending the summer living in flip-flops can spell trouble for your foot and ankle health.

According to podiatrist Thomas Rambacher, DPM, FACFAS, FAPWCA, of Podiatry Hotline Foot & Ankle in Mission Viejo, California, wearing flip-flops long term can pose risks. Here’s what you need to know about how and when you can safely wear flip-flops this summer, and when to choose shoes instead.

The dangers of wearing flip-flops

Flip-flops are unsupportive footwear that can cause pain and discomfort when walking. In addition to the potential to develop pain, calluses, and blisters when you wear them, the lack of coverage and protection they provide can lead to more serious medical problems.

Foot conditions you risk from excessive wearing of flip-flops include:

The unsupportive nature of flip-flops can also exacerbate preexisting chronic foot and ankle conditions. It’s particularly dangerous if you have certain chronic medical conditions like diabetes.

When you can wear your flip-flops

There are a few situations where wearing flip-flops makes sense. It’s okay or even beneficial to wear them when you’re:

In communal showers and locker rooms

Wet, damp areas you share with others, like showers and locker rooms, are common areas to pick up fungal infections. Wearing flip-flops or other waterproof sandals in these spaces at all times greatly reduces your risk.

Next to the pool or beach

Rubber flip-flops are water-resistant, and the grip keeps you from slipping on a wet surface like the pool. Flip-flops won’t be destroyed by sand or water, and wearing them protects you from foreign objects or fungal infections you can pick up when going barefoot.

For very short time periods

If it’s warm out and you just need to step out the door to get a delivery or run down the block, it’s better to wear flip-flops than go barefoot. If you have generally healthy feet, flip-flops can be safe for occasional short distances, such as a block.

When not to wear flip-flops

Most of the time, though, you need to wear more supportive shoes than flip-flops to avoid injury. Don’t wear flip-flops:

For long walks

Wearing flip-flops for long periods is when you really expose yourself to the development of chronic foot and ankle conditions, foot pain, and injury. Even adults with no foot issues should wear more supportive shoes or sandals when walking more than a couple of blocks.

You should also avoid flip-flops if you’ll be standing for long periods.

During athletics

Flip-flops don’t provide the support or protection necessary for any type of sports. At the gym or on outdoor terrain, you also risk getting hurt if something falls on or stabs into your foot.

When you drive a car

Driving with flip-flops makes it harder to stop or accelerate quickly and control the car. You’re at greater risk of getting into an accident.

Our team can help you find alternative sandals and lightweight shoes, as well as fit you with medical-grade custom orthotics that keep your feet safe and comfortable in the summer months. Contact us to get started.



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