The best flip-flops with arch support fend off foot pain with ample cushioning and pressure relief. Here, experts recommend comfy, supportive pairs to shop.
Tide II Toe Post Sandals Boasting the Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association , these flip-flops 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.
Anne Sharkey, D.P. M., a podiatrist at the North Austin Foot & Ankle Institute, recommends it for anyone looking for a supportive summer sandal.
“The Tide II orthotic sandal from Vionic is lightweight and flexible with built-in orthotic support and a shock-absorbing midsole,” she says. “The deep heel cup and arch support reduce stress and strain along the plantar fascia while promoting alignment. The shock-absorbing midsole helps to reduce pressure to joints of the feet and knees. ”What a reviewer says: “I love these shoes!
This is my third pair over the years. I have chronic plantar fascitiis due to extremely high arches and these are the only shoes I can wear pain-free without orthotics,” one reviewer raved.
“I’ve tried other shoes and not all have the same arch support as these... They are a lifesaver in the warm weather so I don’t have to wear closed shoes and my orthotics. ” Slip On Recovery Flip Flops These flip-flops from Aerothotic have racked up over 47,000 ratings with a 4.2 rating on Amazon—and they’re under $40 a pair. They’ve also earned approval from APMA, thanks to their orthotic design with great arch support.
Along with an insole made of polyurethane gel that molds to the shape of your foot, these sandals are also made of a waterproof, lightweight material that’s ideal to wear while lounging poolside or at the beach. Soft-lined straps, a heel cup, and a cushioned toe post also make them comfortable to wear all day long. What a reviewer says: “OK, I’m on my second pair of these.
I suffer from plantar fasciitis and these help me still wear flip-flops,” one customer shared.
“Great pain relief, arch support. I’ve never slipped in them. I’ve had my first pair for at least two years now... They’re lightweight.
Travel well. Durable, they do not easily bend. They wash well, as well. I love these flip-flops.
” OOlala Women’s Sandal There’s a reason why we’ve previously named this Oofos pick as one of the best flip-flops for plantar fasciitis. Having earned the APMA Seal of Acceptance, these recovery sandals feature OOfoam technology that’s designed to reduce the stress on your feet and joints and absorbs more impact than traditional footwear.
“I often recommend them for therapeutic purposes when people are already having foot pain,” says Jane Andersen, D.P. M., a podiatrist at Chapel Hill Foot and Ankle Associates in Chapel Hill, NC.
“They are cushioned, have arch support, and are manufactured with a specialized foam to remove 37% of shock from joints,” adds Sharkey, who also often recommends them to patients with foot pain. “These are great for around the house, pool, and the beach. I love that they are also machine washable. ”What a reviewer says: “The arch support is incredible.
You can feel the difference in support immediately , and it feels like heaven. It’s like being on a cloud, but not a squishy memory foam cloud that gives no support,” said one reviewer.
“I suffered from a terrible case of plantar fasciitis in one foot for almost two years and I can only wear supportive shoes now... As far as wearing flip-flops, these are literally the only ones I can wear because I haven’t found any others with arch support. You can wear them all day long and will not have any arch pain and your feet won't be as tired as with other shoes.
” Yumi Northfork Flip-Flop Revitalign’s Yumi sandals come with a stamp of approval from Saylee Tulpule, D.P. M., a podiatrist in Washington, D.C. , who notes that they’re what she wears for her own plantar fasciitis symptoms. Sharkey also recommends them, particularly this Northfork style which comes with an adjustable strap.
“The hook and loop closure allows for adjustment to ensure a supportive fit. It comes in regular and wide widths,” she says.
“This sandal features a full contact comfort footbed with arch support and cushioning. ” Plus, they’re also designed with quick-dry materials to keep feet comfy and dry. What a reviewer says: “I have wanted a thong sandal with orthotic support.
Finally got what I've been looking for! A sandal that’s finally wide enough” Bella Toe Post Sandal Tulpule also recommends the Bella toe-post sandals from Vionic, noting that they have excellent arch support, lightweight construction, and great shock absorption—all key features that are ideal to support the plantar fascia, flat feet, or Achilles’ tendon, she says.
In fact, these flip-flops have the APMA Seal of Acceptance, thanks to the brand’s built-in orthotic that’s designed to hug your arches and support your feet, as well as a lightweight and flexible EVA midsole that absorbs shock. Plus, they come in both wide and narrow options and are super stylish with a cute bow detail at the webbed toe post. What a reviewer says: “I own several pairs of Vionic shoes and love them.
I have absolutely no arches in my feet so when I’m on them all day they kill me. Vionic is one of the only brands I can wear and my feet are comfortable all day,” an Amazon shopper said.
“They have great support and come in great styles...are well made and hold up nicely so I don’t mind spending more on them. The comfort is definitely worth the price! ” Cushion Cloud Sandal Reef’s Cushion Cloud sandals come recommended by Sayed, thanks to its super-soft cushioning that provides cloud-like comfort.
“The EVA compression molded anatomical arch will give you added arch support,” he says. Along with the soft and cushy footbed, these flip-flops also feature a molded rubber outsole with traction, and sleek synethtic straps with an extra 5mm of foam padding for extra comfort. What a reviewer says: “I have a lot of problems with my feet and plantar fasciitis... I bought these because they were supposed to have lots of cushion.
I love them!!! ” a customer wrote.
“The heel height is perfect for me—just enough. They do have lots of cushion and squish to them. ” Ora Recovery Flip 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. The Ora Recovery Flips have an AMPA Seal of Acceptance, offering a super-plush bed of cushioning, a soft EVA footbed, and a moisture-wicking strap.
“ offer great support with additional cushioning. I wear mine around the house,” says Priya Parthasarathy D.P. M., a podiatrist and a spokesperson for APMA. Sharkey also calls them a “great option for a recovery shoe,” noting that their arch support and cushioning are “great for anyone who has pain with barefoot walking and needs support.
”What a reviewer says: “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. ” Breeze Sea Flip-Flop There’s a reason why these flip-flops from Clarks are a best-seller on Amazon with a 4.5 star rating from nearly 80,0000 shoppers. They’re designed with an ultra-lightweight and grippy sole, along with a comfy EVA-cushioned footbed and midsole.
The adjustable hook-and-loop strap allows for a secure fit, while the soft textile lining keeps uncomfortable rubbing at bay. Even better, they come in a sleek, stylish design in a variety of fun, eye-catching colors. What reviewers say: “Super comfortable and supportive... I’ve been wearing these Clarks Sea Breeze flip-flops daily and they are by far the most comfortable ones I own,” one shopper said.
“The footbed is soft with great arch support. Perfect for long walks or all-day wear. The fabric straps don’t rub, and they’ve held up well after lots of use. I’d recommend sizing up slightly.
Stylish, durable, and worth every penny! ” Surfa Flip-Flops If you’re looking for more of a wedge-style flip-flop, this pair from FitFlop are for you. Parthasarathy recommends it as a great water resistant choice, thanks to its sli-resistnatThey feature triple density cushioning with great shock absorption, along with the built-in anatomical arch support that hugs your feet. They also have a slip-resistant rubber outsole, comfy webbing straps, and a soft fabric toe post.
Plus, the midsoles are nice and roomy, a perk if you have wider feet. What the reviews say: 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.
” Ohana Women's Beach Sandals Looking for a great pair of beach sandals? Olukai comes recommended by Sayed for more than just its stylish design. Many of its styles, including the best-selling ‘Ohana sandals, feature contoured footbeds that support your arches and a rubberized sole for enhanced grip and stability. They’re also crafted with water-resistant materials, with quick-dry jersey knit lining in the straps and a soft nylon toe post—making them especially great for beach and water activities.
What an editor says:Prevention’sdeputy health editor Kaitlyn Phoenix called these flip-flops her “versatile” and “comfy” summer staple in her review.
“The ‘Ohana sandals were enjoyable to wear and I never got any blisters or felt uncomfortable with them on. I consider that a huge win, especially for flip-flops! ” she wrote.
“The materials are durable and definitely held up well when wet. The straps also dried fairly quickly. ” How to choose the best flip-flops with arch support ✔️ Choose a pair that matches your foot arch. Flip-flops feel different for each person, mainly due to your foot shape.
“You want a flip-flop that supports your arch type,” advises Tulpule. 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. Most people have a normal-to-flat arch, says Tulpule, who adds 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,” she 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. ✔️Look for a sturdy rubber sole. 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. ” Why is arch support important? Proper arch support in shoes is important as it allows for more even distribution across the foot, says Sharkey.
“With even distribution of pressure, there is reduced pain, and reduced pressure applied to joints and reduced strain along the plantar fascia ,” she explains. Arch support is especially important in flip-flops as these types of shoes traditionally are flat soled and lack support, notes Sharkey.
“The lack of support leaves wearers of these shoe with achy, tired and sometimes painful feet,” she says. “Flip-flops with arch support help to support proper foot alignment and more evenly distribute pressure across the bottom of the foot. ” Who needs sandals with arch support? All types of feet can benefit from arch support—but individuals with flat feet may benefit more from arch support in shoes than those with higher arches, says Sharkey.
“Due to the structure of flat feet and pronation, there is naturally increased strain along the plantar fascia. Wearing shoes without support compounds this strain,” she explains.
“By using a sandal with arch support, individuals with flat feet will feel more supported, their feet will be in better alignment and they will be better able to participate in activity without achiness in their feet and joints. ”Those with high arches can also benefit from arch support, though.
“Individuals with high arches have good natural support of their feet but they don’t absorb shock well,” notes Sharkey. They’ll see most benefit from a sandal with both cushioning and arch support, she says. How we chose the best flip-flops with arch support We consulted Asim Sayed, D.P. M., A.A.
C.F. A.S. , a podiatrist in Kansas City, MO; Anne Sharkey, D.P. M., a podiatrist at the North Austin Foot & Ankle Institute; Jane Andersen, D.P.
M., a podiatrist in Chapel Hill, NC; Saylee Tulpule, D.P. M., a podiatrist in Washington, D.C. ; and Priya Parthasarathy D.P. M., a podiatrist and a spokesperson for the American Podiatric Medical Association .
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. 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.
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