Best Flip-Flop Sandals
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Fit
Depending on your age, weight, and other factors such as hormones, your feet can alter their size and shape on a fairly routine basis. As such it’s important to make sure that you have sandals that not only fit properly but also can be adjusted easily when the need arises. Because of this important factor, we took a long hard look at how many sandals could be considered true to size and could be easily adjusted. Thankfully, the examples found on this list were found to be true to fit more than one-half the time, with the average being approximately 74% of the time. This means that you’ll have a greater chance of finding the right fit the first time.
When looking for a perfect fit, always use the individual sizing chart that is provided by the seller as this is customized and specified to the shoes they are selling. Also, check the customer reviews to see how the fit was for other customers and if you should go up a size just to be safe.
Comfort
Let’s face it – if the flip-flop sandal isn’t very comfortable, chances are it’s not going to be used, right? Many of the manufacturers on this list realize this, so they do what they can to increase the comfort of the person wearing the sandal. These can include using soft memory foam, like the Reef Woman’s Dream Sandal, or using breathable materials and adding a venting system to help keep your feet cool, like the Cushe Men’s Manuka Spindrift flip-flop. Others choose to rely on the feet-friendly molding of the bottom part, or the use of synthetic material that can adapt over time.
Value
Ah yes, the price. While some of these sandals might set you back a very pretty penny, such as the Olukai brand, many on this list are moderately priced, and can be compared to a nice evening date of a nice dinner and a movie. Most people also spend a comparable amount on a nice pair of athletic or dress shoes. There are other more budget-friendly examples on this list, so finding one that can fit both your needs and your budget won’t be very hard at all. Just remember that these sandals are there to protect your feet, and help ease the stress on your joints and lower back.
Durability
In today’s world of disposable living, it can sometimes be difficult to find something that lasts, especially in something that is used nearly every day during the warmer summer months. These sandals, to the very last one, have been shown to be durable enough to last through quite a few summers of normal use. Indeed, quite a few like the Oofos Original Thong and the Sperry Top-Sider Batfish Thong Sandal are specifically designed with durability in mind, with impressive results. If you’re on your feet most of the day, the support offered by your sandals becomes very important. Through the use of quality materials, certain molding techniques, and knowledge of anatomical structures, each of these flip-flops offers significant support for those with an active lifestyle.
Make sure to check and see what material the flip flops are made from and also check to see if they come with extra features such as water resistance and abrasion protection. This way you will get a quality pair of flip flops that will not only last you this summer season, but many seasons to come.
Top Ten Pairs of Flip-Flops
1. Cior Classica
These flip-flops are not only sleek and stylish but also come in a variety of colors to choose from. If you are looking for an elegant and stylish look to lounge by the pool or wear around the house this summer, check these flip flops out!
Read moreFit
These flip flops are a classic design so they should fit great as long as you get the proper size. Make sure to check the sizing chart provided by Cior so you get the most comfortable fit. When dealing with shoes it is always recommended to go a size up.
Comfort
These flip flops are the definition of comfortable. When you slip your feet into these flip flops they mold in for a comfortable feel. They are also shockproof and slip-proof to ensure you have no issues while wearing them around the pool or home.
Price
These flip flops are a steal as they come in at around $13. At a price like this, it is safe to buy a couple of pairs so you have different color options.
Durability
These flip flops are quite durable and are water resistant to ensure where ever you take these flip flops this summer season they will not get damaged and keep you moving to where you need to be.
2. CUSHE FLIPSIDE
If you lead an active lifestyle, the Cushe Flipside flip-flop sandal is a fantastic choice. Combining the comfort of a slipper and the sporty nature of an outdoor shoe into a flip-flop, there are very few places where this sandal can’t go.
Read moreFit
These sandals run true to size a remarkable 77% of the time, so finding one that fits you is fairly easy. Unfortunately, they don’t offer half-sizes, so if you wear one consider opting for the next larger size.
Comfort
These flip-flop sandals have quite a few features to make them more comfortable. They are not only made from a synthetic material that adds to the breathability, but there is also a ventilated mesh lining to make sure the feet stay relatively dry. The one drawback is that the straps sometimes irritate the feet when the sandals are new. In most cases, they become softer over time.
Created by skilled footwear designers, these sandals feature a molded midsole that enhances the overall support and a soft footbed that provides surprisingly firm arch support.
Price
These sandals fall primarily in the mid-priced range and will cost a bit more than some of the other examples presented here. That being said, for the price, they do provide very good quality, and the Cushe brand is well established, and can easily stand behind their product.
Durability
Made from quality synthetic materials, these sandals last for a surprisingly long time, considering the common abuses that they encounter. Whether you enjoy fishing a stream, walking on the city sidewalk, or lounging at the beach, chances are these sandals will be right there with you.
3. Under Armour Marbella
Designed to be affordable, lightweight, and comfortable, and featuring the Under Armour brand, these sandals are a great choice for the budget minded individual that still wants lasting quality.
Read moreFit
Although true to size most of the time, these sandals do run very small according to customer reviews. It is recommended that the buyer consider getting a full size greater than normal.
Comfort
For the price, these sandals are remarkably comfortable, featuring synthetic straps with foam lining and two layers of 4D memory foam on the footbed for added comfort.
The support offered in these sandals is fairly minimal, but still adequate for everyday use. While these flip-flops are not suited for rugged outdoor use, they are perfectly fine for everyday use at a picnic, visiting the park, or lounging around the home.
Price
These particular flip-flop sandals are some of the most economically priced ones available.
Durability
The quality of the workmanship and materials for these sandals are fairly well established, and with average use, the sandals should last for a few years. While not suited for frequent or intense use, for most people, they will be more than satisfactory.
4. Sperry Thong
The Sperry brand of sandal has long been known for their quality workmanship and easy, breezy styling that blends practicality and fashion. These sandals are a great addition to their lineup.
Read moreFit
These sandals are true to size a respectable 84% of the time but do run a little small when they don’t.
Comfort
While the rawhide lacing and textured footbed may not be preferable for everyone, they do provide a very lightweight and fairly comfortable sandal for those who break them in adequately.
Inspired by the boat shoes worn primarily by fisherman, these sandals offer fairly good support in a number of situations and environments.
Price
These sandals are moderately priced, and can easily fit into most budgets.
Durability
One of the areas that the Sperry brand excels in is their long-lasting quality workmanship. Once these sandals are broken in, they often last for many years and are often used in work environments where durability is key.
5. Reef Men's Rover
The Reef brand of sandal makes another appearance on our list, and just like the previous example, their commitment to fit, comfort and quality are hard to deny.
Read moreFit
These sandals have been reported to be true to size an impressive 79% of the time. In addition, the foam footbed, and synthetic nubuck material easily conform to the feet over time.
Support
Comfort
The sandals offer compression molded, triple-density construction that provides a respectable amount of support for most people. However, those with higher arches may feel a bit underwhelmed.
The footbed of these flip-flop sandals provides a fair amount of cushioning, and the extra padded textile liner provides additional comfort in the areas you need it most.
Price
This is perhaps one of the most budget-friendly choices on this list, and prices range from the low end of the spectrum to about mid-range.
Durability
These sandals are constructed using high-density sawtooth rubber on the outsole, which helps to protect the sandal from every day wear and tear.
6. Teva Olowahu
These flip flops are not only stylish but also provide a comfortable fit and come from a great brand. If you are planning on hitting the beach this summer, a pair of Teva's will have you looking good and feeling great while you spend some time at the beach.
Read moreFit
Thes flip flops offer a great sense of support and have extra straps to ensure they fit great and provide a comfortable feel. These flip flops have a fit rating of 81% so make sure you check the sizing chart that is provided by Teva and maybe go up a size to be sure they are not too small of a fit.
Comfort
These flip flops provide a comfortable feel as with the extra supports and straps, the flip flop is secured to more of your foot and the shoe moves with your foot, rather than a classic style of a flip flop. The sole of the flip flop is a foam so it will feel great up against your feet.
Price
These flip flops are a little pricier than an average pair but that is due to the durability and quality of these shoes. Not only can you take them to the beach but on all your summer adventures this season.
Durability
These shoes are made to last and do not feel like a regular pair of flip flops. They are water resistant so where ever you take them, they will trek through without issue.
7. REEF WOMEN’S DREAM
Combining the convenience of a great flip-flop sandal with the comfort of therapeutic mattress works well for this entry on our list. If you want to feel like you’re walking on pillows, this is a fantastic choice.
Read moreFit
While the Reef brand sandals have a great reputation when it comes to quality and comfort, this particular example tends to run slightly on the small size. Thankfully, the sandals do stretch somewhat with time, but considering a larger size than what you’re used to may be in order.
Comfort
When it comes to comfort, it’s hard to beat the design of these sandals. The footbed features a mattress-inspired PU foam, and the straps are lined with soft satin for added comfort. Finally, the rubber sponge outsole allows for increased flexibility, so walking is rarely a pain.
These sandals feature an anatomical design that has great support for all-day wear, regardless of the conditions. While not as robust as our top choice in support, they are still more than enough for most people.
Price
The price is another area where these particular flip-flop sandals really shine. Not only are they priced for the budget-minded consumer, but their quality is amazingly good for the price.
Durability
While they may not look as durable as others on the market, these sandals have been known to last a minimum of three years with regular normal use, and sometimes even longer. If they are properly cared for, there is no reason why these sandals can’t go the distance.
8. Olukai Ohana
The Olukai Ohana Sandal is perhaps best well known for their use on the beaches of Hawaii by the resident lifeguards. They are comfortable, and can easily withstand anything that the sand and surf can throw at them.
Read moreFit
Specifically designed to be used by lifeguards, the fit of these sandals is fairly impressive, being true to size the majority of the time.
Comfort
There are quite a few features that significantly add to the comfort of these sandals including adjustable nylon straps, a lightweight design, and a soft neoprene base.
While the sandal is designed to offer superior support for those who are on their feet the majority of the day keeping the beach safe, a number of customers have reported the loss of support and cushioning over time.
Price
While not the most expensive on the list, these sandals are certainly a sizable investment.
Durability
Durability is where these sandals are designed to shine. Considering the lightweight TPU performance chassis, the ICEVA footbed, the durability of these sandals are respectable, but not exactly the most impressive we’ve seen.
9. OOFOS ORIGINAL THONG
The Oofos brand of flip-flop sandal has been known for quite some time for their quality workmanship, comfort, and support. These sandals are not only designed with the wearer in mind, they actually help them recover from past injuries.
Read moreFit
These flip-flop sandals are very often true to size, and can easily conform to almost every type of foot size or width. While they don’t offer half sizes, it is fairly easy to find a comfortable sandal by purchasing the size above a half size.
Comfort
While the Oofos Original Thong sandal may not look like much in the way of comfort, looks are certainly deceiving. They are made of fabric that easily conforms to your foot, making them more comfortable with wear.
This is one of the areas where the Oofos Original Thong really shines. These sandals are engineered to absorb more shock and to provide support to tired or aching feet, and help to reduce the stress on your ankles, knees, and hips through great arch support. So if you're looking for a sandal that can ease your feet at the end of a long day, this is a great choice.
Price
While not the cheapest sandals on the market, this entry is remarkably affordable considering all that you get. They are an investment, but can easily fit into most moderate budgets.
Durability
While the strap on these sandals has been known to break with intense use and wear, for the most part, these sandals are built to last. They’re constructed out of odor and moisture resistant materials that work easily in the shower, the beach, or the backyard.
10. Olukai Hiapo
The Olukai brand is well-established as a go-to brand for those who live, work, and play in seashore environments. While this sandal is a bit on the pricey side, it’s quality and comfort is hard to beat.
Read moreFit
This particular example has been shown to be true to fit about 77% of the time according to customer reviews but does tend to run a bit large when it doesn’t. However, the slip-on closure makes it fairly easy to adjust when needed.
Comfort
The straps on these sandals are premium leather with soft pigskin lining, and the molded EVA midsole offers cushioning and support that is very good. They also feature a toe grip that allows the wearer to easily keep them on their feet even with the easy slip on and off nature of the sandals.
The anatomical footbed offers adequate support, and the overall shape and materials help to support the feet and joint even after a long, grueling day outside.
Price
While the quality of the workmanship and materials is certainly very good in this sandal, the price leaves a bit to be desired, being one of the most expensive available. For some, however, the Olukai name, and its reputation is more than enough reason to make a significant investment in flip-flop sandals.
Durability
Although they are one of the more expensive choices on the list, they still provide a great deal of support, comfort, and practicality for people who spend a great deal of time in the beach environment.