The 18 Most Comfortable Flip Flops to Wear This Summer

This shoe has been a total game changer for me, from the wildly comfortable ergonomic design to the minimalist chic little gem embedded on the strap. I can stand in this shoe for hours because it has arch support (hence the name!) as well as closed-cell foam construction that molds to your foot bed. The slightly elevated heel helps me recover from shin splints I sometimes get running, and the stretchy strap is soft enough that I don't get blisters on the top of my foot. This comes in more than a dozen colorways with and without the crystal embellishment. My only caution: Once you wear this flip flop, every other thong sandal is going to seem like half a shoe by comparison.

Fast Facts

• Sizes: 4 to 16
• Material: closed-cell foam

I've seen this kitten-heel thong on numerous stylists and stars but didn't think I'd be comfy in a heeled thong. Wrong—the brand name "Cushionaire" says it all in describing the memory foam footbed that massages the ball of your foot with every stride. Plus, the 1.75-inch heel is placed underfoot so that your foot balances naturally on top of it, rather than pushing your weight forward. My only issue is what color to buy next, the whisky brown or ruby red?

Similar to my beloved Archies, this flip-flop has arch support and slightly stretchy straps. However, its rubber construction creates a bit stiffer-feeling sole, which makes me feel a bit more protected against the pavement than the Archies. Additonally, the rubber is water-resistant, so you can feel free to splash poolside in these. Here I pair them with tabi socks that have a separate big toe chamber, a look I like as a little unexpected style swerve as well as a way to keep my feet both comfy and cozy.

Fast Facts

• Sizes: 6 to 10.5
• Material: rubber

"Usually, I cannot wait to kick off my shoes as soon as I step into my home—outside germs aside, I crave the instant relief for my feet. But even after hours of walking around my neighborhood in the Reef Willow Ella flip-flops, I found myself still wearing them as I padded around my kitchen putting groceries away and checking emails," says senior commerce editor Stephanie Maida. "Yep, they're that comfy. A true shocker considering I'm not typically a fan of flip-flops. These have a firm-but-cushy footbed that if you press down you can actually feel some bounce-back, while the vegan leather straps are smooth and supple. I've walked uphill and downhill in these beauties (which I also adore for their sleek and elevated look) and experienced no slipping and sliding. Most importantly, the piece that goes between the toes is smooth and flat on either end, making it fit comfortably sans any chafing."

Fast Facts

• Sizes: 5 to 11
• Material: rubber outsole, vegan leather straps

My Fitflops are the previous iteration of this style, the original Walkstar sandal. They look very similar, and since I've been wearing the same pair for 10 years, I felt entitled to enthuse about them here. These shoes are distinguised by their ergonomic design that rests the foot in a so-called "wobble" footbed that gives your foot a little nest that to support your soles. The micro-bubble foam provides shock absorption, lightweight and flexible comfort, built-in arch support and is equipped with a slip-resistant tread for added stability. I've worn mine to the dog park to the store to home and then back again, with your feet feeling cozy throughout it all.

Fast Facts

• Sizes: 5 to 11
• Materials: leather upper, fabric lining, slip-resistant rubber sole

Havaianas secured its place as *the* quintessential summer flip flop long ago—and for good reason. The textured footbed offers excellent traction (no slipping and sliding found here) and the rubber construction—despite starting off relatively firm—is pliable and molds to your foot over time for a unique, customized fit. 

Fast Facts

• Sizes: 6 to 12
• Material: strap, PVC; outsole, rubber

These sandals are made for your upcoming travels. Whether you’re eyeing them in a neutral tone or a shiny red pair, they are both stylish and comfortable. Reviewers call out the unique square toe design, gold buckle decal and, most importantly, the soft padding on the soles.

Fast Facts

• Sizes: 5 to 11
• Material: synthetic upper, lining and sole

Looking for comfortable and affordable flip flops under $15? These Shade & Shore sandals offer a casual flair that’s fit for any look. “I bought these sandals twice now. They’re basically all I wear in the summer. I have really sensitive skin on my feet and many flip-flops just destroy the top of my foot/create deep cuts. These never do and are so easy to throw on,” says Nicole Briese, former Commerce Director at PureWow. The thong straps make it easier to slip on and off at the beach, while the soft insole keeps your feet snug for longer walks along the shore. Note: Some reviewers found the straps to be too big and bulky for thin feet.   

Fast Facts

• Sizes: 5 to 12
• Material: polyurethane upper, thermoplastic rubber sole

“I’m a Rainbows gal for life. I’ve been wearing them since middle school (obviously not the same pair—but I will say they are surprisingly long lasting) and love them because they are simple but chic," says PureWow Fashion Editor Abby Hepworth. "And they have a surprising amount of support in the footbed.” If you’re searching for flip flops that will last for years, this pair from Rainbow is your best bet. It’s constructed with a leather upper and nylon thread that practically guarantees long-lasting wear. “The wider strap doesn’t dig into my feet or rub, so there’s essentially no break-in period," Hepworth says. "They stay in great condition for so long, and I say this as someone who is in no way precious with her footwear."

Fast Facts

• Sizes: 4 to 11.5
• Material: leather, waxed leather, military grade nylon

Let’s cut to the chase: You want shoes that max out on the comfort factor, and these flip flops from Sanuk are here to deliver. “My Sanuks are my go-to summer flip flops. I've been wearing the brand since high school and they're perfect for my narrow, bony feet,” says Olivia Dubyak, former commerce editor at PureWow. The footbeds are crafted from the same spongey material as yoga mats (memory foam and polyester), so each step you take is met with padded, bouncy support. Oh, and the pair is also anti-chafe, washer-friendly and vegan. 

Fast Facts

• Sizes: 5 to 11
• Material: recycled PET, polyester, cotton, EVA, foam

“I love a comfy platform flip flop (because, um, I need extra height as a shortie!), and this pair is the way to go," says PureWow associate sales and deals editor Destinee Scott. "The footbed is so smooth and it contours to your feet the more you wear them, which make them even comfier. And they look so cool and retro. I love them!” It's true, that ‘90s fashion mainstay the platform flip flop is back, and if you want to step into the trend (without twisting an ankle, of course), this pair of wedged sandals is your invitation. The woven straps prevent the material from biting into the skin, and the cushioned footbed offers padding and support for your feet. 

Fast Facts

• Sizes: 6 to 11
• Material: woven synthetic uppers, EVA platform lower

"I love the minimalist, chic style of these flip flops and the lightly cushioned footbed gives just the right amount of padding for added comfort," says assistant commerce editor Natalie LaBarbera. Searching for a simple yet stylish flip flop? These babies by TKEES should be on your radar. Crafted with matte faux leather and one distinct neutral shade that complement any outfit, they also have a cushioned footbed that make them more comfortable to walk in.

Fast Facts

• Sizes: 5 to 11
• Material: leather upper, rubber sole

Whether you love ‘em or hate ‘em, you have to admit that Crocs makes some comfortable shoes, and its flip flops are no exception. The Crocs Crocband flip flop is versatile, easy to clean, waterproof and, most importantly, cozy. It’s equipped with a massage-pod footbed and stellar cushioning for your heels. Reviewers claim that they’re durable and easily withstand the test of time.

Fast Facts

• Sizes: 6 to 15
• Material: foam, croslite

For those of us with wider feet, finding a solid summer sandal that fits correctly can be…tricky. That said, it isn’t totally impossible. These Naot pairs were built specifically for medium- to wide-footed people. With a cork and latex footbed, and an EVA sole that molds to your foot’s shape, the Tahoe sandal is also commended by the American Podiatric Medical Association for promoting good foot health.

Fast Facts

• Sizes: 5 to 11
• Material: ethylene vinyl acetate, cork, leather

Hoping to get your hands on a pair that have a more elegant and refined feel? I recommend investing in this chic option from Tory Burch. These fan-favorite sandals combine fashion and function, featuring a cushioned insole and soft, full grain leather that can hold up well with daily wear and tear.

Fast Facts

• Sizes: 4 to 13
• Material: leather, rubber

If you’re dealing with aches and pains due to the lack of arch support in your summer shoes, Dr. Sharkey recommends this padded pair from OOFOS: “OOFOS have patented technology that removes 37 percent of shock from the joints, while also providing great arch support. They are great for anyone experiencing foot pain and fatigue with traditionally flat and flexible flip flops,” she says. Backed by the American Podiatric Medical Association, these sandals aim to alleviate any stress on your feet, lower back and knees. They feature footbed cushioning and a soft toe post that allows you to walk all day in them. But that's not all—according to the brand, they're designed for recovery, as the material aims to soothe and rejuvenate your feet after an intense workout. They're great for those with plantar fasciitis too!

Fast Facts

• Sizes: 5 to 16
• Material: closed-cell foam

Birkenstocks is renowned for delivering sandals that are not only comfortable and cool, but also keep your feet healthy. Best known for their iconic cork footbed, each pair of Birks is equipped with a deep heel cup, unparalleled arch support and a high toe bar for better grip. Multiple editors have sworn by their comfort for all-day wear, noting that it's worth wearing them for shorter errands at first, until they're broken in.

Fast Facts

• Sizes: 4 to 11.5
• Material: acrylic and polyamide felt fibers top upper, soft fabric lower upper, cork footbed, EVA outsole

You might be thinking that flip flops are not a decent walking shoe, but this pair from Vionic is here to prove you wrong. Firm yet cushiony, it’s crafted with a medium-density EVA midsole that aids in minimizing impact shock as you take your daily stroll. (FYI: The pair is also knee and ankle-friendly.) Beyond that, they’re proven to alleviate heel pain, while also cradling and offering plenty of support for your arches and have received a Seal of Acceptance by the American Podiatric Medical Association—yup, they’re that good.

Fast Facts

• Sizes: 5 to 12
• Material: Leather and fabric or cork upper, rubber sole