Not all flip flops are created equal! Our Potomac MD podiatrist knows flip flops are a convenient, easy summer shoe, but if you find yourself living in flip flops throughout the summer, take the time to seek out a pair that will provide your feet with the support they deserve!
Features of Flip Flops Our Potomac MD Podiatrist Suggests Considering
Are Your Flip Flops Sturdy?
No proper shoe should ever be able to bend entirely in half. Lack of sturdiness is a dead giveaway that a flip flop is not going to meet any long-term needs of your feet. If the flip flop can bend entirely, avoid walking long distances in them. The lack of shock absorption and arch support from flimsy flip flops will place strain and stress on your feet. Likewise, if a pair of flip flops are from summers past, our podiatrist in Potomac says to throw them out. If flip flops have wear and tear, their support has likely deteriorated as well.
Instead, our podiatrist in Potomac MD suggests a better flip flop is flexible enough to bend at the ball of the foot, but will have enough integrity to hold its basic shape. With proper arch support, a well-designed flip flop is a great shoe for summer weather!
Our Potomac MD Podiatrist Warns Against Uncomfortable Flip Flop Material
You are more likely to experience blisters if a flip flop is made of cheap plastic or rubber. Do not ignore irritation between toes due to painful rubbing against the thong of your sandal. The constant chaffing can result in open sores and infection.
Sometimes It's Better to Skip the Flip Flops
Our 5-star Potomac podiatrist suggests that you avoid wearing any flip flops, regardless of quality, while doing yardwork. Flip flips are not protective enough to guard from potential injuries. On a similar note, even the best flip flops were not designed for athletic activities. Save slam dunks and sprints for the tennis shoes! Flip flops largely increase your chances of twisting an ankle or sustaining an injury.
Flip Flops Can Be Better Than Going Barefoot in Some Settings
Sturdy flip flops are certainly better than no shoes, especially when you walk around public pools or gyms in the summer time. Our Potomac podiatrist warns that exposed soles can result in plantar warts or athlete’s foot. These can leave your feet uncomfortable and unsightly throughout the summer.
If you are curious as to which flip flops are most supportive for the summer, our Potomac MD podiatrist suggests looking for flip flips that hold the APMA’s Seal of Acceptance. For further information on flip flops from the American Podiatric Medical Association, click here to watch a video on what to look for in a flip flop.
The information provided in this article is not meant to be medical advice and is for educational purposes only. If you would like to learn more about this and other topics related to podiatry, feel free to contact The Podiatry Center, with a convenient podiatry office location near Potomac MD, by clicking here or by calling 301.656.6055.
