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The 12 Best Flip-Flops for Men of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Our winner is Adidas Men’s Essentials Comfort Flip-Flops

a pair of men's flip flops

People / Jamie Hergengrader

If your summer plans include spending time at the pool or on a sandy beach, flip-flops are an essential item. Instead of picking up a flimsy pair that may only last for one vacation, you can invest in high-quality flip-flops that will provide years of comfortable (and stylish!) wear. (Can men's flip-flops really be stylish? Jason Mamoa has a flip-flop and T-shirt collab with So iLL x On the Roam, so we say yes.)

Wearing inexpensive or poorly made flip-flops can exacerbate or create injuries, so it's worth choosing a high-quality version. “Avoid flip-flops made of cheap material that are excessively thin or flat to prevent problems such as extensor tendonitis,” says Cory Clement, DPM, an LA-based podiatrist, “In addition, the flatter the sole, the more our intrinsic foot muscles work harder to grip the sandal which can lead to hammertoes and even bunions.” 

We tested 16 pairs of the best flip-flops for men by wearing them to the pool, on hikes, around the house, and everywhere in between. We evaluated each pair for comfort, fit, support, durability, and value. We continued wearing them for five months and have updated the list below with our findings.

These are the best flip-flops for men that PEOPLE Tested.

Adidas Comfort Flip-Flops

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Comfort
    5/5
  • Fit
    5/5
  • Support
    5/5
  • Durability
    5/5
  • Value
    5/5
Pros
  • For the high performance of this shoe, we were shocked at its affordable price.

  • The lightweight materials made these flip-flops feel as light as air on our feet.

  • They have a smart design and are well-made with sturdy materials.

Cons
  • The straps felt a little tight on wider feet.

  • Because these are better pool or lounge shoes, they aren’t ideal for extended wear.

Adidas is known for high-performing footwear, and these flip-flops are a fantastic showcase of that. They’re lightweight but sturdy enough for everyday wear on all kinds of terrain, and they're super comfortable — add them to the list of great travel accessories. Made with flexible EVA on the bottom and a smooth polyurethane footbed, they feel soft and well-made. There aren’t a lot of particularly noticeable ergonomic features, but there are some subtle smart design elements that boost comfort and make you feel supported, including a slight dip at the toes and a curved heel bed that cradles your feet just right. As far as arch support, there is a slight rise where the straps naturally tuck under the soles, so it creates a modest boost.

The straps are a little bit narrow (sorry, wide-footed folks), but they are very soft and didn’t cause any chafing, blisters, or discomfort, even after long wear. Another plus: The Adidas flip-flops did not require a break-in period, which is common with flip-flops, especially between the toes. These aren’t exactly the kind of shoes you’d want to wear if you plan on doing a lot of hiking or walking, as the support isn’t extraordinary. However, they are high quality, reasonably priced, and would be a great option for everyday errand running, heading to the beach, or slipping on after sports practice.

How they've held up:

The comfort level of these flip-flops has remained the same from the day we got them to the day we recorded our final thoughts at the end of our five-month testing period. They’ve been our trusted companions for everything from housework to errands, and they continue to look brand new, too (despite a bit of fading on the footbed brand logo, which would have happened anyway). Our one wish is that this pair had a darker sole, so as to not display any dirt or scuffs, but we still didn’t think that its bright white sole docked any points for us. All in all, you can’t beat the price (or the performance) when it comes to these Adidas flip flops — they also make for a great gift for men.

Colors: 7 | Sizes: 5-13 (whole sizes) | Materials: Synthetic, polyurethane, EVA

Adidas Comfort Flip Flops

People / Elizabeth Leonard

Best Overall, Runner-Up

Reef Voyage Le Flip-Flop

Reef Men's Voyage Le Flip-Flop

Zappos

Our Ratings
  • Comfort
    5/5
  • Fit
    5/5
  • Support
    5/5
  • Durability
    5/5
  • Value
    5/5
Pros
  • They have thick and sturdy soles that protect feet from any terrain.

  • They are made of real leather.

  • These flip-flops run true to size.

Cons
  • They feel heavier than some of our other options.

  • They may cause chafing and blistering during the break-in period.

The Reef Men’s Voyage Le Flip-Flops got our vote as the second best overall because of how comfortable they were even after wearing them all day long. While most flip-flops aren’t exactly known for being sturdy, these have thick soles that protect your feet from all surfaces, from slippery concrete to sand and grass. They’re made of 100 percent authentic leather and feel luxurious. The bottom of the shoe has significant ridging as well, which provides excellent traction whether you’re walking on wet surfaces or rugged terrain. 

These ranked as runner-up due to their break-in period — the straps caused blistering and were rough between the toes at first. They also feel a bit heavy, and there is minimal cushioning in the footbed, which could be a pro or a con depending on your preferences. The price for these flip-flops is on the high side — this is one of the more expensive pairs we tested. However, we can confirm they are very well made and feel durable. They run true to size, so just choose your typical shoe size when purchasing these sandals. If you’re looking for a pair of men's flip-flops that will last you for many seasons, these are a great option.

How they've held up:

Several months may have passed while we tested these flip-flops, but you’d never be able to tell by just looking at them. These flip-flops have held up against wear and tear extremely well, and their appearance and comfort level have made them our go-to’s. We can even say we’d repurchase these, should we feel like their pristine, leather facade had faded over the seasons of wear (or if we simply wanted another color).

Colors: 4 | Sizes: 6-13 (whole sizes) | Materials: Leather, rubber

Reef Men's Voyage Le Flip-Flop

People / Sophie Mendel

Rainbow Sandals Men's Leather Single Layer Wide Strap with Arch

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Comfort
    4.5/5
  • Fit
    4.5/5
  • Support
    5/5
  • Durability
    5/5
  • Value
    5/5
Pros
  • These flip-flops felt super lightweight.

  • The materials that make up this shoe feel sturdy and durable.

  • Thanks to its padded insole, these flip-flops come with good arch support.

Cons
  • We had somewhat of a rough break-in period with this pair.

Treasured for softness and durability, leather shoes of any kind have a luxurious feel that’s worth the price. These Rainbow flip-flops are no exception. They feel high quality in every way, from the straps to the footbed. The soles themselves are thick and padded yet lightweight and don’t feel clunky on your foot. There is also significant arch support that keeps you comfortable even during long-term wear. While there is minimal cushioning, after wearing them a few times, the leather starts to mold and adjust to your foot’s unique shape so that the sandals become softer and more comfortable.

On that note, while the sandals fit true to size, there is a bit of a break-in period with these — the leather feels tight at first, which is a little uncomfortable, but after a short break-in period, they soften and adjust. The leather used is high quality, and the sandals are designed and crafted with intention, which is why we rated this pair the best out of all the leather pairs we tested. The price is reasonable, considering these sturdy sandals are a long-term investment that will get you through many hot summer days. 

How they've held up:

Throughout our months-long testing period, it’s been hard to get these off our feet (in the best way). The quality of these shoes is noticeable from the second you put them on, from how they look to how they feel on our feet. There’s been little to no wear and tear visible on the shoe itself, and we’re super comfortable in them now that the break-in period has passed (pretty standard for most leather shoes). All that is to say that we’ll be placing another order once we think this durable pair has seen better days.

Colors: 16 | Sizes: Small-XXX-Large | Materials: Leather, rubber

Rainbow Sandals Men's Leather Single Layer Wide Strap with Arch

People / Dylan Thompson

Chaco Men's Lowdown Flip-Flop

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Comfort
    4.5/5
  • Fit
    5/5
  • Support
    5/5
  • Durability
    5/5
  • Value
    5/5
Pros
  • Thanks to their rubber makeup, these sandals have a barely-there, lightweight feel.

  • The cushioned insoles always kept us feeling comfortable.

  • The flip-flops include the brand’s signature traction technology.

Cons
  • Though the polyester straps are comfortable, they are a little loose.

Chaco is known for making durable shoes that are built to last and can be worn on all your outdoor adventures, from hiking to biking to swimming. Right off the bat, we were impressed by the excellent arch support in this pair. While they have a fair amount of cushioning, it is hidden under the rubberized surface, so they get even more comfortable and soft with each wear. The sleek footbed allows the shoe itself to fit well against the foot, and it makes you feel very grounded and balanced, which is key if you’re going to be wearing them on the go. They also feature the brand's signature traction technology. 

The straps are stretchy and comfortable, although they did cause a little bit of irritation between the toes during the break-in period. After a few days, they adjusted and molded to the foot — and after that, they felt like a dream. However, the straps loosened so much after a few wears that they became slightly loose, which might be an issue if you’re trying to walk quickly. Although we wish the straps could be adjusted for tightness, overall, this pair’s durability, arch support, comfort, and overall value make them a solid pick.

How they've held up:

Despite our earlier worries about strap-stretching, these flip-flops became one of our go-to’s during the five months of testing. From camp trips to errands around town, we’re in awe over how well these hold up to different terrains and purposes. These were so easy to break in and provided incredible comfort throughout our daily flip-flopped activities. With no signs of wear and tear after months and months, we’re marveling at the dual sturdiness and comfort of these sandals. We honestly feel that if this was the only pair of flip-flops we wore for the rest of our lives, we'd be okay with that.

Colors: 7 | Sizes: 7-15 (whole sizes) | Materials: Polyester, EVA, rubber

Chaco Men’s Lowdown Flip

People / John Somerall

Hoka Ora Recovery Flip

Hoka

Our Ratings
  • Comfort
    4/5
  • Fit
    5/5
  • Support
    5/5
  • Durability
    5/5
  • Value
    5/5
Pros
  • The absorbent straps are great to wick away moisture on hot, summer days.

  • Its double-layered cushioned insole feels like a foamy dream.

  • They're very lightweight.

Cons
  • Because of its higher quality and more detailed design, these come at a steeper price.

We were surprised by how lightweight these are, considering that they do have a clunkier look. However, the Hoka’s give the best of both worlds by being lightweight on your feet and equipped with a generous amount of plush softness, which is why they won our vote as “Best Cushion.” The Hoka Ora’s run true to size, so choose your typical shoe size when ordering.

Equipped with dual-layer construction, cushioned midsoles, and an EVA top layer, the Hoka Ora Recovery Flip makes you feel like you’re walking on a cloud with each step. Also, the jersey material straps have moisture-wicking properties, which is a game changer on hot summer days and provides extra softness. Even though this pair does have a softer feel, there is still a decent amount of arch support. The Hoka flip-flops are on the pricier side, but we felt that the quality of this high-performing shoe makes it worth the higher cost. 

How they've held up:

If you love a platform or want a bit more cushion than some of the other flip-flops on this list provide, then this is the shoe for you. But if you’re more of the less-is-more state of mind, then you may not fall for this pair. Its ergonomic design and ultra-cushioned soles made us feel a bit unsteady at first, but its comfort was undeniable once we got used to them. There was a bit of fraying on the straps over time, but nothing we could knock too many points off for. If you’re a Hoka sneakers devotee, you’ll love these sandals.

Colors: 6 | Sizes: 7-14 whole sizes | Materials: Jersey, EVA, rubber

Hoka Ora Recovery Flip Flop being tested.

People / Henry Yung

UGG Men's Brookside Flip Flop

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Comfort
    4.5/5
  • Fit
    5/5
  • Support
    5/5
  • Durability
    5/5
  • Value
    4/5
Pros
  • True to Ugg’s nature, these flip-flops are super soft.

  • The high-quality materials feel durable and look expensive.

  • Its neutral hues pair well with many outfits.

Cons
  • Due to the flat insole, these flip-flops don't have arch support.

We all know Ugg’s iconic winter boots are oh-so-soft and cozy, and you can expect that softness in Ugg's flip-flops, as well. The top of this men's flip-flop is made from a buttery suede that feels soft on your feet, while the bottom is made of rubber, which provides a good amount of traction. Although the soles themselves are a bit thin, they aren’t too bendy and feel durable and well-made. We also love how the suede insole, cotton canvas lining, and molded rubber outsole give the flip-flops a classy look that you can wear out and about without looking too casual or sloppy. These flip-flops fit true to size, and even after a month of wear, they still felt like new, which also signaled just how high quality these shoes are. 

One of the biggest downsides is that these sandals lack arch support, which could lead to discomfort. Also, the sole doesn’t offer much bend, so when you start trying to pick up the pace with your walk, the sandals can slow you down. With all this being said, they do feel well-made and soft. If you want a flip-flop in a nice, neutral hue that you can wear beyond a beach or pool visit, this pair is a great option at a reasonable price. 

How they've held up:

These Ugg flip-flops are the easiest to slip on when doing our everyday activities, like walking around the neighborhood or running errands. We’ve even taken them on vacations because of how versatile (and durable) they continue to be. With a lack of color fading and wear and tear, we’re inclined to buy the other colors, too, to have a variety of shades in our wardrobe. Straight A’s in the long-term for us.

Colors: 3 | Sizes: 7-15 (whole sizes) | Materials: Suede, EVA, rubber

UGG Men's Brookside Flip Flop

People / Mike Navarro

Best Everyday, Less Expensive

The North Face Base Camp Flip-Flop ll

The North Face Men's Base Camp Flip-Flop ll

The North Face

Our Ratings
  • Comfort
    5/5
  • Fit
    4.5/5
  • Support
    5/5
  • Durability
    5/5
  • Value
    4.5/5
Pros
  • The foam material is molded to the unique shape of our feet.

  • They were super easy to slip on.

  • The tri-lug sole held up well over months and months.

Cons
  • The straps felt a little tight on our feet.

The North Face Base Camp Flip-Flops are designed with longevity in mind. They are made of foam material in the footbed that molds to your foot and cradles its unique shape. This feature allows you to wear them all day with hardly any foot fatigue. And while they do feel lightweight, they aren’t so lightweight that you don’t feel like you’re wearing them. This is largely because they stay firmly on your feet, so you don’t have to worry about being slowed down with your steps or tripping over yourself. The velvet-like straps, while a bit tight, are also incredibly soft and don’t cause blisters or chafing.

The EVA footbed is made up almost entirely of foam; however, there isn’t much arch support. But the foam provides cushioning and adjusts to your foot’s natural shape for a comfortable fit. The North Face makes products designed to withstand the elements — and these flip-flops are no exception. Durable, high quality, and easy to slip on and off, these sandals are reasonably priced and ideal for everyday use. They’re also sleek and stylish and come in a wide variety of colors, which is a major plus. 

How they've held up:

We wore this pair while simultaneously testing another pair, but this one stood out as the most comfortable shoe for lounging. Over the months of long-term testing, we did, in fact, test its abilities to perform as an outdoor shoe, which it did well, but its comfortable insole and soft straps make this one preferable for everyday wear, even indoors. The tri-lug outer sole continues to provide excellent traction. We recommend them for times when you may be standing in one place (such as working at a standing desk) or shuffling around the house for a while because its EVA footbed does wonders for tired feet.

Colors: 8 | Sizes: 7-14 (whole sizes) | Materials: Synthetic, EVA, rubber

The North Face Men's Base Camp Flip-Flop ll

People / John Somerall

Merrell Men's Breakwater Flip-Flop

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Comfort
    5/5
  • Fit
    5/5
  • Support
    5/5
  • Durability
    5/5
  • Value
    4/5
Pros
  • The rubber outsole is thick and durable, so these flip flops are equipped for rugged terrains.

  • The ergonomic structure is designed for optimal support.

  • They're relatively lightweight and easy to wear.

Cons
  • Because of the heavy-duty materials and design, this sandal elicits a higher price.

The rugged outsole and supportive insole of these flip-flops from Merrell made them an easy choice for our best hiking flip-flops. These are also one of the more ergonomically designed pairs we tested — from the cushioned heel bed to the gentle rise at the arch and curve up at the toes. All of this works together to put you in a natural stride that is a game changer for hiking. Yet even with the thick outsole, they’re still relatively lightweight and easy to wear. The Vibram Megagrip rubber outsole is rugged and sturdy, ideal for climbing on rocks and treacherous trails. After putting them to the test on a three-mile hike, they still felt comfortable and caused minimal chafing — a win in our book! 

You may be skeptical about hiking flip-flops — we were too. You probably assume that any major outdoor activities that don’t involve water should be done with hiking boots. But if you’re planning to hike somewhere with a river or waterfall that you want to be able to easily dip into without having to take off your shoes and socks, these sandals can handle it. The Merrell Breakwater flip-flops run a bit small, so order a size up if you’re between sizes. These flip-flops are one of the more expensive pairs we tested, but we found that with the extra support, rigid outsole, and durable material, they are worth it.

Colors: 3 | Sizes: 7-15 (whole sizes) | Materials: Woven webbing, EVA, Vibram Megagrip rubber

Sanuk Men's Beer Cozy 2 Flip-Flop

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Comfort
    5/5
  • Fit
    5/5
  • Support
    5/5
  • Durability
    5/5
  • Value
    4/5
Pros
  • These sandals are super lightweight thanks to their memory foam material.

  • The straps are soft and comfortable, which is optimal for potentially sunburned skin.

  • Its foam sole is squeak-proof.

Cons
  • This pair has minimal arch support.

  • Because of its airy footbed, these are not ideal for rocky terrain.

You’ll find your inner peace in the Sanuk men’s flip-flops. Made from memory foam-like material equipped with air pockets, you’ll feel like you’re walking on a cloud with every step. The material also makes them very lightweight and foamy, like your favorite brew (which is where the shoes get their name). There is a bit of arch support, but it’s nothing to write home about — and they wouldn't be ideal on a rocky terrain. However, the cushioned footbed makes up for that, as your feet simultaneously sink into and are cradled by it. The straps are also soft and cause minimal chafing — the fabric wrapped around them keeps them from causing any irritation despite constant contact throughout the day. 

We ranked these as the best for the pool for a couple of reasons — their softness, obviously, but also their durability and traction. Even on slippery surfaces, they felt very secure, which is crucial if you’re hanging out on a slick pool deck. They're also squeak-proof, which is important after you inevitably get splashed. They fit true to size and are a great value. Also, they’re much quieter than most flip-flops. Although these might be impractical for outdoor adventuring when you’ll be on your feet a lot, they are ideal if you want a pillowy soft pair of flip-flops that can be worn at the pool or on other slippery surfaces. 

Colors: 7 | Sizes: 6-14 (whole sizes) | Materials: Synthetic leather, memory foam, rubber

Vionic Men's Wander Wyatt Flip-Flop

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Comfort
    5/5
  • Fit
    5/5
  • Support
    5/5
  • Durability
    5/5
  • Value
    5/5
Pros
  • The podiatrist-designed arch provides superior support.

  • The rubber sole makes these orthopedic sandals ultra-durable.

Cons
  • Because of their less-flexible soles and toe-post design, these had a longer break-in period.

The Vionic Men’s Wyatt Toe Post sandals are podiatrist-designed to work for all foot types. Made of synthetic leather on the insole and durable rubber on the outsole (and EVA cushioning on the inside), we voted these the most comfortable because of how easy they are to wear all day long without experiencing foot fatigue or soreness. While shoes with too much cushioning often make your feet feel like they’re sinking, and shoes that are too firm tire out the muscles in your feet, these find an ideal balance between firm support and pillowy softness. Design elements like the deep heel cup and midsole arch support also make your foot feel cradled in all the right places. We also appreciated how easy they were to slip on and off, and the sizing was spot on — there is plenty of room in front of the toes and behind the heels, so you don’t feel like your feet are hanging over in any way. 

The main downside to these is the break-in period, specifically around the straps. They caused some chafing for the first few days between the toes and on top of the feet, though it went away after two to three days. To avoid any unwanted discomfort, we’d recommend wearing these for short periods the first few times and then longer once they’re truly broken in. These sandals are expensive, but after the break-in period, they were extremely comfortable, and the thick soles and sturdy straps prove that they are built to last. 

How they've held up:

The main takeaway from our months of testing was indeed the durability of this pair. They continued to look and feel great even after five months of wear, although it took a second to get these broken in (and by a second, we mean a few days of wear). These look sleek and never feel like they’re slipping off of our feet, which is something the toe post helps with (though it was the cause of some irritation during the adjustment period). But now that they’ve formed to our feet, they’re feeling great.

Colors: 7 | Sizes: 7-13 (whole sizes), 8.5, 9.5, 10.5 | Materials: Synthetic, EVA, rubber

Vionic Men's Wander Wyatt Flip Flop being tested.

People / Rob Lefebvre

OOFOS OOriginal Sandal

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Comfort
    4.5/5
  • Fit
    5/5
  • Support
    5/5
  • Durability
    4.5/5
  • Value
    5/5
Pros
  • The body of the shoe was designed to protect the feet.

  • You can confidently order your normal size because these are true to size.

  • The airy synthetic material makes these very lightweight.

Cons
  • The soles are pretty thick, so it would be hard to pack these for travel.

  • The thick toe posts and synthetic straps take some getting used to.

Sometimes you just need a little more support, and the OOFOS OOriginal Sandal gives just that. Walking, running, or doing any kind of physical activity on hard surfaces puts stress on foot joints and muscles which can cause pain and increase your risk for injury. These flip-flops run true to size and are made with the OOFOS “Recovery Technology,” which provides extra support and cushioning that cradles the footbed and minimizes the impact of your steps. Because they are recovery sandals, we were surprised by just how light they are — although they are well-made and durable, the synthetic material doesn't weigh your foot down. In addition, these are of great value thanks to their excellent traction that feels secure even on slippery surfaces. 

Our main issue with this pair is the straps. While there wasn’t much of a break-in period for these, the piece that goes between the toes was thick and a little abrasive, so it did cause some minor discomfort. They’re also fairly thick-soled, which is great for support purposes, but maybe not ideal for packing in checked luggage or carry-on bags or wearing every day. However, if you’re coming home from the gym or playing sports and want to change into something that will take extra care to protect your tired muscles and joints, look no further.

Colors: 5 | Sizes: 3-16 (whole sizes) | Materials: Synthetic, OOfoam sole

OluKai Ohana Men's Beach Sandals

Zappos

Our Ratings
  • Comfort
    5/5
  • Fit
    4/5
  • Support
    5/5
  • Durability
    5/5
  • Value
    5/5
Pros
  • Thanks to its soft straps and ergonomic design, these sandals are easy to slip on.

  • The shoe features a thick, supportive sole that feels comfortable throughout all-day wear.

  • Because of their cushy insole and enhanced grip soles, these shoes are super durable.

Cons
  • They’re not true to size — we found that this pair tends to run small.

  • Because of its thick insole, this flip-flop is a bit heavier than some others we’ve tested.

The OluKai 'Ohana is perhaps one of the most durable and well-made pairs of flip-flops we tested. Although there is minimal cushioning, there is quite a bit of arch support in just the right part of the footbed, which is refreshing, considering many shoes have an awkward arch placement that leads to uncomfortable wear. The soft straps also have quite a bit of flexibility and an ergonomic design so they are easy to slide on and off if you’re looking for a slip-on shoe that you can wear around the house as well. As far as traction, the thick soles are ridged on the bottom so that you can feel safe and secure walking on all kinds of terrain. 

One thing to note, they do run small — for reference, we typically wear a size 10.5 but ordered an 11, and even that was a little snug — so it may be best to order a size up to make sure you have enough room. Also, because these high-quality sandals are on the heavy side, they might not be ideal for tossing into a weekend bag or packing into a suitcase. These are also one of the most expensive flip-flop sets we tested. However, they are very well made, durable, and supportive, so we still highly recommend them.

Colors: 14 | Sizes: 7-18 (whole sizes) | Materials: Synthetic, EVA, rubber

Things to Consider Before Buying Flip-Flops for Men

Comfort

If you don’t feel comfortable in your shoes, it’s impossible to enjoy what you’re doing, especially if you’re spending a lot of time on your feet. If you’re going hiking, biking, swimming, or on any other kind of adventure this summer, uncomfortable shoes will certainly put a wrench in your plans. Considering the material of the flip-flop, how firm or flexible it is, and the level of arch support are all critical factors that will make a difference in how you feel, especially after wearing flip-flops for men for long stretches. While every flip-flop for men on this list is comfortable, the Vionic Wyatt Sandal earned the top spot for comfort.

Fit

How a flip-flop for men fits you is largely individualized. Do you have high arches or flat feet? Do you have a wider foot, or do you tend to fit better in a narrow shoe? These are all things that impact if shoes fit you, even if you’ve picked the “right” size. In flip-flops for men, look at not only how wide the footbed is but also how stretchy the straps are, especially if you have wide feet. Also, a shoe may promise to prioritize arch support, but if the design is too high or too low for your arches, it could make them incredibly uncomfortable for you. The best way to know if a flip-flop for men fits right on you is to try them on and test them before you purchase, so you can see how it molds to your foot’s unique shape. 

Support

If you don’t have proper arch support in your shoes, it can lead to a number of issues, including back pain and muscle tension. While you may think that all flip-flops for men are destined to be flimsy and flat, on the contrary, there are plenty of brands that are designed to have quality arch support. “Good built-in arch support in the sandal is key in both men’s and women’s flip-flops," Dr. Clement says. However, everyone’s arches are different — if you have particularly high or low arches, you will require a different level of support, so keep that in mind when trying on and picking out a new pair of flip-flops for men. Our pick for flip-flops for men with the best design, OluKai Ohana Men's Beach Sandals, have a thick sole and quite a bit of arch support.

Durability

Whether you’re hiking, swimming, lugging your beach wagon across the sand, or running errands, you want shoes that last. You may buy a new pair of inexpensive flip-flops for men every season and not think twice about throwing them out come Labor Day. But, it’s better both for the environment and your wallet to invest in a pair of flip-flops for men that will last for many seasons. Also, nobody wants to be out and about or on vacation and have a strap on their shoes break or wear them down until there are holes in the bottom. Consider the materials used to make the shoes, as well as reviews for how they perform against the elements, to determine if the flip-flops for men you’re considering are truly durable. Our top pick for durability, the Chaco Lowdown Flip-Flop, is sure to hold up no matter where your summer takes you.

Value

While it is true that you get what you pay for, it’s also possible to find a good pair of flip-flops for men that won’t break the bank. As we said — spending your money on a pair of flip-flops for men that you’ll just end up throwing out in a few months is a waste. Comparing your options for price and quality is important to find the best deal on flip-flops for men that are comfortable, durable, and will last for as long as possible.

How We Tested

We tested 16 pairs of top-rated flip-flops for men for comfort, fit, support, durability, and value. Our initial testing period took place over two weeks. We did our best to simulate long-term wear to get a real sense of each pair’s pros and cons.

  • Wear: Testers wore the flip-flops about five to seven times for at least five hours on various terrains, such as pavement, grass, dirt, sand, wet tile, hardwoods, etc. They looked for things like blistering and chafing, staining on the skin from the dye on the shoes, and how the shoes themselves withstood water, sweat, and prolonged wear. 
  • Long-Term Testing: After that initial two-week testing period, we narrowed it down to the comfiest flip-flops for men and continued to test them at home for five months. During this time, we wore them regularly both indoors and outdoors, and then we evaluated how they felt over time as well as how they held up to regular use.
Frequently Asked Questions
  • What is the difference between sandals and flip-flops for men?

    Flip-flops are a type of sandal. What makes a flip-flop different from a sandal is, of course, the eponymous sound it makes with every step. But it’s also different from a sandal in the sense that it's attached to your foot by the Y-shaped strap that goes between your toes, while a sandal usually has extra reinforcements (either on your heel or other parts of your foot) that secure it in place. However, flip-flops for men can come in various materials, including rubber, straw-lined, leather, and suede.

  • Can you wear flip-flops with men's jeans?

    Is wearing jeans with flip-flops really that big of a fashion faux pas? Yes, it is. While you can get away with wearing sandals with jeans in very specific cases — like if the jeans are rolled above the ankles and if they’re a more casual wash — flip-flops for men are usually too casual to pair with jeans, no matter how distressed or relaxed the rest of your outfit is. If you’re going to wear flip-flops, we recommend saving them for the beach, pool, or another summer setting where you’ll be wearing shorts. 

  • Is it okay for runners to wear flip-flops?

    Wearing any kind of inexpensive shoe with minimal support can increase your risk of discomfort and injury, but runners should be especially cautious of cheap flip-flops. Because flip-flops are often more slippery and flat, they can force the bones in your feet to work overtime if they’re trying to grip the footbed. This is where the real risk comes in — forcing your foot’s muscles and bones to work harder than usual can lead to injury if you wear them regularly or for long stretches. And while you shouldn’t wear flip-flops while actually running due to obvious safety reasons, it’s safe to wear them occasionally. If you’re worried or want to take special care to invest in the health of your feet, opt for a pair of flip-flops that are designed with arch support in mind. On the other hand, our best recovery flip-flops for men, Oofos OOriginal Sandal, is a great choice for runners to wear to recover after running.

Why Trust PEOPLE?

Olivia Avitt is a writer and content creator who has written about a wide range of subjects, including health, beauty, relationships, culture, and music. When she's not working, you can find her perusing coffee shops, reading, or catching up on reality TV. For this piece, she compared the comfort, fit, support, durability, and value of some of the best flip-flops for men on the market based on our testing. For additional insight on how to choose the best flip-flops, she interviewed Cory Clement, DPM, an LA-based podiatrist. Clement provided insights on the importance of high-quality flip-flops that properly support the feet. Staff writer Alyssa Brascia later updated this story with the long-term insights that our testers recorded after five months of extended wear to test for longevity and durability.

Meet Our Expert

Cory Clement, DPM is a Los Angeles-based podiatrist.

What Is People Tested?

We created the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval to help you find the very best products for your life. We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs.

But we don’t stop there: We also regularly re-review the categories in which we’ve awarded the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval — because the best product of today might not be the best of tomorrow. And by the way, companies can never buy our recommendation: Their products must earn it, fair and square.

In short, PEOPLE Tested provides recommendations you can trust — every day, every purchase. 

Sources
PEOPLE uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
  1. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (n.d.). Niams health information on sports injuries. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases.

  2. Huang, Y.-ping, Peng, H.-T., Wang, X., Chen, Z.-R., & Song, C.-Y. (2020). The arch support insoles show benefits to people with flatfoot on stance time, cadence, plantar pressure and contact area. PLOS ONE, 15(8).

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