▷ Are flip flops bad for your feet ?
An effective way to take care of your feet during hot summers is to allow them to breathe fresh air. Thus, flip flops are a go-to choice for many. However, many studies have been conducted on the regular use of traditional flip-flops, which have come up with shocking results.
For example, one such study found that constant use of traditional flip flops was linked to ongoing back pain.
So the burning question is:
Are flip flops really bad for your feet? Let's take a deeper dive.
What is a flip-flop ?
Flip-flops are, in essence, a type of sandal worn by many as part of their everyday casual attire. They mainly consist of a flat sole held loose towards the foot by a Y-shaped strap known as a toe strap that goes between the first and second toe and around both sides of the foot. Or it can even be a hard base with a strap over all the toes.
You might be surprised to learn that the first flip flops date back to 4000 BC and were discovered from ancient Egyptian wall paintings.
Most ancient Egyptian sculptures and drawings show subjects wearing flip-flops, including royalty and ordinary citizens. A wide variety of materials were used to make flip flops in the early days. These include:
- papyrus sheets,
- palm leaves,
- rawhide, wood,
- rice straw,
- the sisal leaves
- and yucca leaves.
Flip-flops were all the rage in the 2000s. But with rising global temperatures, they have re-emerged as a lifestyle choice.
They are generally preferred for their attractive design which literally lets your toes breathe.
Stinky, sweaty feet have always been a bane for many. A much more common and intolerable condition during the summer. So, to relieve smelly and sweaty feet, flip flops are now entrenched as an adequate solution.
What are the benefits of flip flops ?
Flip-flops have a number of benefits that reflect their appeal and popularity.
1 / Feet can breathe
Let's start with the obvious. They allow your feet to breathe. For this reason, problems such as athlete's foot and ingrown toenails can also be prevented much more easily.
2/ Show your style
Flip-flops are versatile and there are many options and styles to choose from. You can even style them up to show off your trendy styles from ankle to toe or even wear them for a casual day. More foot freedom
They also give you more freedom and allow comfortable mobility without worrying about unwanted blisters or cuts.
So you won't have to worry about your toes or your feet wide or feeling uncomfortable doing anything and everything.
3/ Easy to grab and go
In addition, flip flops are also a must because they are quick and accessible. Plus, you don't have to sit down to tie your shoelaces or put your foot in a closed shoe when you're already late for work.
What are the disadvantages of traditional flip flops ?
By now you might be wondering why this article is titled, "Are flip flops bad for your feet?" since we have so far just praised
The truth is, the right kind of flip flops are a great addition to your wardrobe. Unfortunately, for many, wearing the wrong size or quality of flip flops is where the trouble comes in.
Not choosing the right flip flops can increase heel pain. This can induce an additional problem at the level of the lower spine. Leading to frequent and chronic back pain.
You might be surprised to know this, but wearing the wrong type of flip flops can also distort your posture due to lack of support.
The cheap material used in poor quality flip flops puts them at risk of breaking anywhere and anytime, leaving you barefoot.
But again, this is only the case with poor quality, cheap, ill-fitting flip flops.
So how can you buy flip flops that fit?
How to find the right flip flops for your feet ?
A great pair of flip flops with custom arch support and a cushioned heel cup that cradle your feet while providing a solid grip for confident walking.
Look for models that are designed to fit your feet and your lifestyle.
It has been scientifically proven that a good pair of flip flops can reduce foot pain. While improving comfort and increasing stability.
It's clear that flip flops are a great addition to your summer wardrobe. As long as you get high quality and supportive flip flops. So what are you waiting for ?
