When it comes to summer footwear, there’s nothing like a pair of comfy, breezy flip-flops. After all, these open-toed walking sandals are breathable and lightweight for warm-weather activities—and they’re easy to slip on and off, too. But any old flimsy pair won’t do; to ensure your feet are comfortable and pain-free, you’ll need the best flip-flops with arch support.
“The issue with traditional flip-flops is that they are designed to wear for short distances. An example would be walking to the pool or to the shower. Because of this, traditional flip-flops offer very little support, stability, or shock absorption,” says Asim Sayed, D.P.M., A.A.C.F.A.S., a podiatrist based in Kansas City, MO. “By utilizing this type of footwear for long periods of time, you are putting your feet at a mechanical disadvantage and applying increased stress on certain parts of your foot.”
Meet the experts: Asim Sayed, D.P.M., A.A.C.F.A.S., a podiatrist in Kansas City, MO; Jane Andersen, D.P.M., a podiatrist in Chapel Hill, NC; Saylee Tulpule, D.P.M., a podiatrist in Washington, D.C.
But don’t count out flip-flops just yet. You can still find plenty of comfy pairs that offer proper arch support to prevent and alleviate foot pain—and even conditions like plantar fasciitis and tendonitis. What should you look for, though, exactly? In general, a supportive shoe actually comes down to three things: arch height, footbed, and overall durability, says Jane Andersen, D.P.M., a podiatrist at Chapel Hill Foot and Ankle Associates in Chapel Hill, NC. When it comes to arch height, you can tell if a shoe has arch support by looking at the insole of the shoe—if there is a small hump that rests where the arch of your foot sits, then there is some degree of arch support, explains Sayed.
Our top picks
Now that you know what to look for in a great pair of flip-flops, you’re ready to get shopping! Check out our favorite podiatrist-approved picks below.
Best Overall: OluKai Ho’ōpio Sandals
OluKai Ho‘ōpio Sandals
Pros
- Durable
- Quick-drying
- Sleeker design than other arch support sandals
Cons
- Thin footbed
| Material | Synthetic rubber |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 5-11 |
| Colors | 14 |
This shoe brand comes recommended by Sayed for more than just its stylish design. Many of its styles, including the Ho’ōpio flip-flops, feature contoured foot beds that support your arches and a rubberized sole for stability. Plus, there are ridges in the toe box to keep feet in proper position while walking. With water-resistant straps and a silicone lining to prevent absorption, these sandals are also a great option for the beach and pool.
“Best flip flops ever,” raved one Amazon reviewer. “The arch support combined with the soft sole makes these shoes a real winner! I wear them almost every day around my house, and they don’t ever hurt my feet or back. Do yourself a favor and get a pair of these like right now.”
Best Value: Aerothotic Original Orthotic Comfort Flip-Flops
Aerothotic Original Orthotic Comfort Flip-Flops
Aerothotic Original Orthotic Comfort Flip-Flops
Pros
- Made with shock-absorbing gel insole
- Lightweight and supportive
- Available in 18 colors
Cons
- Some reviewers experienced discomfort with ridges on the footbed
| Matetial | Synthetic leather |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 6-11 |
| Colors | 18 |
These water-resistant flip-flops have a wedge heel to provide arch support in the midsoles. Wear them while lounging poolside or at the beach, or pair them with a casual outfit for a cookout. Unlike other flip-flops, this pair has a leather-cushioned thong that makes them comfortable to wear all day long. “These slippers are surprisingly light, comfortable, and durable,” one reviewer shared. “They don’t squeak and provide the perfect arch support for someone [with flat feet].”'
Best Orthotic: Vionic Tide II Toe Post Sandals
Vionic Tide II Toe Post Sandal
Pros
- Earned the APMA Seal of Acceptance
- Orthotic design
- Deep heel cup
Cons
- Some reviewers say the fit is too loose
| Material | Leather, cork, synthetic |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 5-12 |
| Colors | 32 |
These flip-flops from Vionic have a built-in orthotic design to help alleviate heel pain and plantar fasciitis—in fact, the brand claims that it’s the world’s first orthotic sandal. With a Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), these comfy sandals feature a lightweight, flexible EVA midsole that absorbs shock, a foam-lined strap, and a durable outsole with a patterned tread. Plus, they come in a wide range of colors.
“Ahhhhh…These Vionic flip-flops are the most comfortable thing I’ve put on my feet in a long time,” one reviewer shared. “The arch height is perfect and the sole is sturdy yet a little bit of perfectly ’smushy.’ Love.”
Best Recovery: Hoka Ora Recovery Flip
Hoka Ora Recovery Flip
Pros
- Earned the APMA Seal of Acceptance
- Plush cushioning
- Great for post-workout recovery
Cons
- Some reviewers note sizing issues
| Material | Synthetic |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 5-11 |
| Colors | 9 |
If you’re in need of a pair of comfy sandals to slip your tired feet into after a run or workout, you can’t go wrong with one of our favorite running shoe brands, Hoka. These popular recovery flip-flops have an AMPA Seal of Acceptance, thanks to a super-plush bed of cushioning, a soft EVA footbed, and a moisture-wicking strap. And did we mention they come in a range of stunning colorways?
“These sandals are simply the most comfortable I’ve ever worn,” one Zappos customer wrote. “If you have tired achy feet after a long hike or a day in ski boots, the recovery sandal is pure relief. They’re also just great for wearing around the house or running to the market.”
Best for Foot Pain: Oofos Olala Sandals
Oofos Oolala Sandal
Pros
- Machine washable
- Lightweight and flexible
- Great for preventing and reducing foot pain
Cons
- Only available in one color
| Material | Synthetic |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 7-10 |
| Colors |
These flip-flops will really make your feet go “ooh la la”—plus, they check all the boxes. They’re simple, water-resistant, and have great footbed cushioning. “I often recommend them for therapeutic purposes when people are already having foot pain,” Andersen says. One Amazon reviewer shared they would give these flip-flops six stars if possible. The reason: “These are very thick in the heel and in the arch with a soft but durable material. [My wife] said it was like walking on marshmallows, pillows, clouds…She would wear them all day without any discomfort or pain.”
Best Slide: Lululemon Restfeel Women’s Slide
Lululemon Restfeel Women's Slide
Pros
- Features wide, comfortable upper strap
- Outsole provides enhanced traction
- Available in six colors
Cons
- Pricey
| Material | Rubber |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 5-12 |
| Colors | 6 |
Looking for a pair of comfy slide sandals? Sayed recommends this pick from Lululemon—they’re designed to soothe your feet post-workout with the help of dual-density foam cushioning, a plush upper strap, and heel-to-toe rubber traction. The foam layer provides shock absorption and support while the arch support was built into the design for easy wear, he explains. Bonus: They come in a variety of chic colors.
“Love these shoes! They are so soft and comfortable and easy to wear,” said one Lululemon customer. “They rinse clean easily after walking the beach. Highly recommend!”
Best Water-Resistant: OluKai Ohana Flip-Flops
OluKai Ohana Sandal
Pros
- Features water-resistant straps and quick-dry lining
- Sleek design
- Available in 19 colors
Cons
- Pricey
| Material | Synthetic rubber |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 5 - 12 |
| Colors | 19 |
These supportive flip-flops are made with a water-resistant strap and quick-dry lining, so you can can go from the beach to the street in comfort. They also come in a wide variety of summer-ready colors that are sure to brighten up any look. A Nordstrom reviewer said: “I have arthritis in my feet and it’s a pleasure to find these. They are comfortable out of the box. They will go on vacation with me.”
Best Sporty: Teva Voya Flip-Flops
Teva Voya Flip-Flop
Pros
- Features quick-dry straps
- Footbed molds to your foot
- Lightweight design
Cons
- Some reviewers report getting blisters while breaking them in
| Material | Synthetic |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 5-12 |
| Colors | 14 |
Teva claims these flip-flops are best for all-day walking. This style is cushioned, extremely durable, molds to your feet, and dries quickly for comfy, slip-resistant wear. Best of all, the entire shoe is recyclable and the webbing is made from recycled plastic—preventing two plastic bottles from winding up in landfills. “These are so comfortable!” one reviewer wrote. “I like how they have a good arch support, squishy bounce, and cute fabric.”
Best for Heel Support: Birkenstock Gizeh Sandals
Birkenstock Gizeh Sandals
Pros
- Deep heel cup for support
- Adjustable buckled strap
- Available in narrow sizes and many colors
Cons
- Can take time to wear in sole
| Material | Synthetic, leather, cork |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 3-15.5 |
| Colors | 50+ |
“Birkenstocks offer support for your arch and a deep heel cup,” explains Sayed. “These are two things I always look for in a tennis shoe and they have incorporated it into a sandal.” These popular thong sandals from the brand feature a cork-latex footbed, a lightweight and flexible EVA sole, and an adjustable buckled strap for a customizable fit. Available in a wide range of colorways, this best-selling pick boasts a 4.5-star rating from over 26,000 Amazon shoppers.
“Aaaaaah, that’s what I say everyday when I slip into my Birkenstock,” wrote one reviewer. “I have problem feet—high arches that need support, and small but troublesome bunions. Very few shoes really feel good on my feet all day—but these do...The support on these shoes is amazing, and the cork footbed really does mold to your foot, making them feel more and more comfy all the time.”
Best for Plantar Fasciitis: FitFlop Surfa Flip-Flops
FitFlop Surfa Flip-Flop
Pros
- Lightweight and breathable design
- Available in 16 colors and patterns
- Earned an APMA Seal of Acceptance
Cons
- Some reviewers note discomfort while breaking the shoes in
| Material | Ethylene Vinyl Acetate |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 5-11 |
| Colors | 16 |
If you’re looking for more of a wedge-style flip-flop, these are for you. The midsoles are also nice and roomy, a perk if you have wider feet. These also earn the APMA Seal of Acceptance, thanks to the built-in arch support, slip-resistant rubber outsole, and soft textile uppers. One Amazon reviewer who has fallen arches and plantar fasciitis said they’re “so happy” they gave these sandals a try: “The support was just perfect so that I was comfortable, but not so hard that it took time to get used to. After just a few days my recurring foot pain is gone.”
Best Cushioned: Clarks Breeze Sea Flip-Flops
Clarks Breeze Sea Flip-Flop
Clarks Breeze Sea Flip-Flop
Pros
- Lightweight design
- Offers enhanced traction
- Available in over 25 colors
Cons
- Some reviewers note they are too narrow for wider feet
| Material | Synthetic rubber |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 5-12 |
| Colors | 25+ |
These ultra-lightweight flip-flops will be ready to wear right out of the box—no breaking in required. The synthetic rubber sole ensures proper grip, the OrthoLite footbed hugs the arch, while the soft textile lining keeps uncomfortable rubbing at bay. Even better, you can snag these in a variety of fun, eye-catching colors. “I just want you to know these are extremely comfortable!” one reviewer shared. “They have a very cushy insole which is very important for those of us whose feet aren’t what they used to be! The insole gives enough so my feet are not [in pain] even when I wear these all day.”
Best With Anatomical Arches: Reef Cushion Cloud
Reef Cushion Cloud Flip-Flop
Reef Cushion Cloud Flip-Flop
Pros
- Lots of cushioning
- Offers excellent shock absorption
- Features enhanced arch support
Cons
- Some reviewers say they run small
| Material | Synthetic rubber |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 5-11 |
| Colors | 4 |
These sandals from Reef offer super-soft cushioning for cloud-like comfort. “The 5mm of padding gives this flip-flop excellent shock absorption,” Sayed says. “The EVA compression molded anatomical arch will give you added arch support.” These flip-flops also feature molded rubber outsole with traction, and sleek straps for a stylish finish. One reviewer wrote: “Like walking on a cloud! I love that the strap is nice and tight on the top of my foot. All of this flip-flop is super spongy.”
How to find the best flip-flops with arch support
Yes, you can rock flip-flops (cute ones, too!) without your feet having to pay the price. However, there are sandal features that you should keep in mind to make that possible. For one, your flip-flops should never be paper-thin (unless you’re wearing them exclusively as shower shoes at the gym). In other words, if the flip-flops can easily break, they can easily damage your feet. Here are three other tips to keep in mind while shopping:
Choose a pair that matches your foot arch.
Flip-flops feel different for each person, mainly due to your foot arch. Think of it this way: If you have a high arch, you need flip-flops with a similar high arch. If you have a flat arch, you need flip-flops with a lower arch.
“You want a flip-flop that supports your arch type,” explains Saylee Tulpule, D.P.M., a podiatrist at the Foot and Ankle Specialists of the Mid-Atlantic in Washington, D.C. Most people have a normal-to-flat arch, says Tulpule, adding that you can tell if a flip-flop matches your arch by simply trying them on. “It should just immediately feel comfortable—like a perfect match,” Tulpule explains.
Opt for contoured footbeds.
The footbed shape should follow your natural foot shape, Andersen says. Contoured footbeds are ideal because the molding tends to fit feet better. This type of footbed is often made of cork or natural latex and provides even distribution of your weight across the shoe. A contoured footbed is also more comfortable, because they consistently support your foot alignment while also helping to prevent painful injuries like shin splints and collapsed arches.
Consider rubber soles.
A sandal’s sturdiness matters too. Your flip-flops should not only withstand normal wear and tear, but they should also have a strong sole that keeps you from tripping, falling, and twisting your ankle, says Tulpule. Flip-flops with rubber soles support and comfort your feet, allowing you to walk on all surfaces without stumbling around. Most rubber soles are also waterproof, meaning you don’t have to worry about slipping and sliding.
Examine the heel and midsole
“A deep heel cup will increase the stability among other things,” Sayed explains. “Additionally, look for a midsole that is thick to assist with shock absorption.”
How we chose the best flip-flops with arch support
We consulted Jane Andersen, D.P.M., a podiatrist in Chapel Hill, NC, Asim Sayed, D.P.M., A.A.C.F.A.S., a podiatrist in Kansas City, MO, Saylee Tulpule, D.P.M., a podiatrist in Washington, D.C. They offered brand and style recommendations for us to consider, many of which ended up on our list. We also sifted through countless online reviews and product specs in search of sandals that matched the advice we got from experts on what to look for when shopping for flip-flops with arch support. Lastly, we used our editor’s expertise and personal experience with a variety of shoe brand to find the best comfortable flip-flops available.
Why trust us
For more than 70 years, Prevention has been a leading provider of trustworthy health information, empowering readers with practical strategies to improve their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Our editors interview medical experts to help guide our health-focused product selections. Additionally, Prevention also examines hundreds of reviews—and often conducts personal testing done by our staff—to help you make informed decisions.
Destinee Scott is an editorial fellow and a graduate student at New York University. She graduated magna cum laude from St. John’s University and has a passion for inspiring people to live their best lives. She is also a blogger and an avid-candle shopper.
Shannen Zitz is an Assistant Editor at Prevention, where she covers all things lifestyle, wellness, beauty, and relationships. Previously the Editorial Assistant at Prevention, she graduated from the State University of New York at Cortland with a bachelor's degree in English. If she’s not reading or writing, you can probably find her frequenting the skincare and makeup forums on Reddit or hogging the squat rack at the gym.
