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If the arrival of warm weather has you itching to free your toes from the heavy cage of snow boots they've been trapped in all winter, a great pair of flip flops is going to be your best friend.
We're flip flop fans ourselves, and over the last decade, we've put nearly 150 pairs to the test on paths, beaches, gardens, and while meandering through town.
The best men's option is the Olukai Ohana, first for its comfort and second for its supportive build that comes about as close to a real shoe as a flip flop can get. For women, we love the Birkenstock Gizeh. These stylish shoes are a staple in many summer wardrobes because they are comfortable enough to wear all day, look good with almost any outfit, and last for years.
For a budget pick, check out the women's Archies, which offer a step up in support compared to your typical rubber flips, or the men's Teva Mush. Both are comfortable, affordable, and you'll have no qualms about getting them wet.
If you're looking for an open-toed option but want some added stability, or prefer skip the toepost, take a peek at our sandals review.
Who it is best for: If comfort and versatility rule your wardrobe, the stylish Birkenstock Gizeh are the shoes for you. They are durable and easy to wear around town, and if you're willing to invest, the shoes will provide custom comfort and support as they gradually mold to the shape of your foot. While design can be a bit stiff right out of the box, the customized comfort and support it provides once you take the time to break it in is unparalleled. The contoured sole and adjustable straps enhance the shoe's stability, and the raised edges along the sides help cradle your feet in their natural position and protect against stubbed toes. The EVA outsole set the standard for traction when we took this on some dirt trails outside of town.
Why we love it: We love the Gizeh because they are just so darn wearable. While the suede-lined cork sole can be pretty stiff at first, it softens after about a week of wear, allowing the arch and toe ridges to follow the natural contours of your foot, after which you'll have a hard time wearing any other sandal. The unique, effortless style can be dressed up or down, and they will most certainly become your go-to footwear during the warm-weather months. Plus, the proprietary birko-flor leather look-alike is easier to maintain than leather.
Should you buy it? This is a high-quality and durable design, and it comes with a price tag that matches. The higher price, longer break-in period, and granola-girl style may not be for everyone, but they certainly won us all over after a few seasons of testing (plus there are plenty of fun colors that feel less granola-y). We love the custom fit, extra support, and the raised edges along the sides that help cradle your feet in their natural position, as well as protecting from stubbed toes. The only person who should not buy the Gizeh is one who's looking for a water shoe; in that case, you can check out the Birkenstock Gizeh Essentials EVA. Anyone else who wants the support of a full-blown shoe combined with the free-air feeling of a flip flop should seriously consider the classic Gizeh.
The unique cork midsole, EVA outsole, adjustable toe strap, and custom footbed (once you break it in) make the Gizeh a great choice for a variety of activities. Credit: Trish Matheny
Who it is best for: The Olukai Ohana is ideal for those seeking a stylish, comfortable, durable flip flop with excellent arch support and stability, perfect for casual wear or activities like poolside lounging or river crossings. If you don't want to suffer through a break-in period, these feel amazing straight out of the box.
Why we love it: The Ohana is durable and supremely comfortable, molding to your foot over time for continued performance, with a contoured footbed, superb arch support, and a rugged sole offering decent traction. Our tester praised its versatility: “The rugged design, durable materials, and good looks did everything I asked of them — and aged with grace.” At the same time, its wide selection of colors and patterns adds stylish appeal. Our female testers also loved the women's version of this flip flop.
Should you buy it? This premium flip flop is worth the investment for its exceptional blend of comfort, support, and traction, but its higher price and heavier weight may deter budget-conscious buyers or those packing light for travel.
Who it is best for: The Archies flip-flops are worth considering if you love a sleek, minimal style, but need a bit more arch support than a traditional flip flop. The fact that they're among the most affordable pairs we've tested is just a bonus. These flip flops are super lightweight and packable, making them a great choice for travel, pool days, the beach, or backpackers who need a break from their boots on an extended trip into the mountains. They are available in a wide variety of color choices, ranging from bold yellow and orange to a more neutral black and tan, and the closed-cell foam is denser and more hygienic than other materials. While not the most structured or supportive design we tested, it is much better than a flat footbed, where you can feel your foot strike the ground with every step.
Why we love it: The most unique detail of the Archies is that they were designed by health care professionals in order to better support the arch and alleviate common ailments in the feet, in addition to better aligning your posture starting from the ground up. The 1+ inches of thick foam and the higher arch were definitely appreciated by our lead tester, who was struggling with Achilles pain during the test period.
Should you buy it? For the most part, these flip flops are comfortable right out of the box, but the toe strap can feel a little tight, especially for those with wide or high-volume feet. But the stretchable strap changes to the shape of your foot after only a few uses, and it helps support your feet by keeping the shoe well-attached, even when the footbed is wet. “While the footbed got pretty slippery and noisy after the shoe got wet, the tight strap helped my feet stay put,” says one tester. But those with wider feet should try before buying, as the footbed shape favors narrower feet. But for many people, these are not serious deal breakers, especially at this price. We love the variety of color choices and think they're perfect for running casual errands, or wearing in the shower at the gym, and the lightweight construction makes them the perfect choice for travel. Overall, they're a step above your average flip without the expensive price tag.
The Archies are a great choice for those seeking a little more support than your average flat footbed within a lightweight and affordable design that will mold to the shape of your feet. Credit: Trish Matheny
Who it is best for: The OluKai Mea Ola is perfect for those needing a stylish and dressy flip flop that's still comfy for all-day wear. These aren't meant to get wet, so they are ideal for dry-land use for shoppers who also prioritize aesthetics. Our review team summarized, “These eye-catching flip flops prove that you can look great without sacrificing functionality…as long as you keep these out of the water.”
Why we love it: The mid-grade arch support worked for literally every member of our testing team, from those with flat feet to high arches. The footbed shaping was also well-designed, with a comfy heel cup and raised outside edges that complemented the arch support. Last, but not least, the fully-wrapped leather build offers an incredible aesthetic, especially with the canoe whiplash stitching in the toe strap.
Should you buy it? These are a very expensive pair of flip flops, but with top-end construction material, looks, and performance, these still offer decent value. If you're needing something to be used in and around water, we'd look elsewhere, but for a stylish dry-land flip flop, these are hard to beat.
Who it is best for: The OluKai Ohana is one of the best options for ladies who want a classic flip flop that doesn't sacrifice comfort and support. This water-friendly flip flop feels at home whether you're out in the garden, heading to the grocery store, showering at the gym, or hanging with friends at the park. The uniquely cushioned footbed maintains your body's anatomical position while providing a soft, shock-absorbing surface, and the flexible, thick toe straps are perfect for those with wider feet. If typical, cheap, flat flip flops don't provide enough support for your feet, we recommend the Ohanas for their out-of-the-box comfort and arch support.
Why we love it: Season after season, the Ohana has remained at the top of our list of award winners. There is no break-in period, and the soft and cushy footbed feels great right out of the box. We think the fit runs true to size, but compared to other Olukai models that we've tested, the Ohana works best for those with wider, high-profile feet. The contoured footbed feels great for those with high arches, while the rubber outsole offers solid traction, and the top layer of the shoe has enough grip to keep your feet from sliding around, whether wet or dry. One of our testers, who is a resident of Yosemite Valley, loves this sandal for hanging around camp, trips in and out of the Merced, and showering at the wellness center, as it supports her tired feet from many days on the job.
Should you buy it? Although the Ohana is definitely more expensive than your average flip flop design, we consider the out-of-the-box comfort, contoured footbeds, and great traction worthy of the bigger investment. One downside is the weight, especially compared to other minimalist, less supportive designs. “Even though they're a bit heavier, they are still packable and take up limited space in your pack,” says one tester. These also have a more sporty aesthetic that not all women will love. Still, the support it provides more than makes up for these minor drawbacks, and your arches will appreciate the comfort over the long haul. And if you're looking for a more affordable option that provides a little extra support for your arches, check out the Archies flip-flop, which is available in a wide array of colors and features a more dainty profile.
Who it is best for: The Astral Filipe is ideal for shoppers demanding a flip flop that can hold its ground, whether walking on wet or dry surfaces. With an easy-to-add heel strap, this high-traction option can quickly be converted into fully-strapped sandals, making them even more capable in rugged terrain.
Why we love it: We became enamored with the zero-drop footbed and the foot security gained by adding a heel strap. While these don't have much in the way of arch support, many of our testers with lower volume arches had minimal complaints. The razor-siped outsoles were truly confidence-inspiring on slick, wet surfaces.
Should you buy it? Some flip floppers take their open-toed footwear to more intense places. If this is you, we highly recommend taking a hard look at the Filipe. Our review team concluded, “These are fantastic for adventure flip-flopping as long as you don't need arch support.”
Who it is best for: The OOFOS OOriginal is ideal for those who prioritize comfort, especially as a recovery shoe after intense physical activities like long runs, workouts, or mountain adventures. It's ideal for those who value post-activity relief over style and don't mind a less versatile sandal that is most at home in casual, comfort-focused settings. No matter what color you choose, the chunky foam look doesn't exactly win points for fashion. “They're clearly made for function over form,” said our tester. Still, if comfort and practicality are your main goals, and you're not put off by the oversized look, these are a smart choice.
Why we love it: This is the most comfortable flip-flop our testers have ever worn, earning its reputation as a recovery shoe. The thick foam footbed offers a unique blend of softness and support, while the straps hold the sandal securely in place without discomfort. Designed with OOFOS' patented footbed technology, these flip-flops are made to support the arch, encourage natural movement, and relieve pressure on the feet, knees, and lower back. “After a long run, a big workout, or an intense day in the mountains, I immediately wanted to slip into these flip flops when I got back to the car,” our head tester, Brooke Hess, remarked. “Wearing these feels like walking on a cloud.” Its exceptional footbed cushioning makes it stand out for soothing tired feet.
Should you buy it? This excels in comfort but lacks in style and versatility due to its thick footbed and straps, making it less suitable for dressier occasions. Just as you wouldn't wear sweatpants for a dinner date, you probably won't choose these for such events. But if you're after a lightweight recovery shoe for post-run relief, tough workouts, or long hiking days, the OOriginal deserves serious consideration.
The Oofos Ooriginal is one of the most comfortable women's flip flop we tested. Credit: Brooke Hess
Who it is best for: The Teva Mush II is ideal for flip floppers shopping on a budget who aren't planning to get too adventurous with their open-toed footwear. These are comfy and outperform their low price. “The testing team all agreed this bargain model was able to keep up with rivals twice as expensive,” our gear experts concluded.
Why we love it: This is a high-value option that quickly broke in, offering personalized comfort after just a couple of days. The supple footbed and toe straps felt soft against the skin, and these are ridiculously low weight at only 6.45 ounces, making them easy to bring backpacking or traveling.
Should you buy it? These aren't the best for traction, but if you're planning to keep your flip-flopping on the more casual side, these are well worth the money. These have a nice neutral aesthetic and are capable flip flops for beachside walks or hanging on a boat.
The Teva Mush II was a joy to wear on dry or wet ground, just keep the terrain on the mellower side and you'll be happy with its traction. Credit: Zach Lovell
How We Tested
We order the most promising flip flops each season for rigorous side-by-side testing. We leave no stone unturned as we take these shoes on diverse terrain, including beaches, pool decks, river walks, town squares, and more. Our hands-on testing allows us to thoroughly engage with each product, learning the ins and outs while focusing on key performance aspects like comfort, support, traction, versatility, and style. This comprehensive review highlights some of our favorite flip flops that we've found over the years.
Zach is an IFMGA Mountain guide who craves flip flops and sandals as a respite from the long hours in climbing shoes, hiking boots, or ski boots. If he had to guess, he would say he has spent a third of his life in flip flops or sandals. He's also spent over a decade in product testing and has a keen eye for detail across many categories, including flip flops.
Brooke Hess leads our women's flip flops tests. Brooke, a professional whitewater kayaker, travels globally, often in flip flops. Formerly with the US Freestyle Kayak Team, she now favors extended wilderness expeditions with friends. Off the river, she climbs, skis, or works on river conservation. Constantly switching between wet kayaks, climbing shoes, and ski boots, flip-flops are her ideal in-between shoes for prioritizing foot comfort.
Likewise, Trish spends much of the year in footwear that is meant to perform, whether on a climbing route, a backcountry ski tour, or a trail run, so when it's time to give her feet a break, flip flops are her first choice. Aside from just rest days, Trish is willing to wear a pair of flip flops just about anywhere, and probably some places where they're not meant to go in the first place, too.
Our team took these flips all over, testing the capabilities of each pair.
How to Pick the Best Flip Flops for You
Getting your toes out in the open air is one of the most exciting parts of summer. Slip on a pair of flip flops and get moving, or fling them off to feel the grass between your toes. But choosing the right pair goes beyond what meets the eye. These shoes are made with a variety of footbeds, which can make or break the comfort and durability.
Based on your day-to-day activities, certain flip flops are going to better or worse. However, it's hard to go wrong with the OluKai Ohana. Credit: Matt Bento
Types of Footbeds
The first thing that comes to mind when you think of flip flops might be a piece of rubber with a couple of straps. It can be as simple as that, or it can go much further, with some models putting particular care into the footbed, the actual piece that your foot rests on.
The Fitflop Lulu features a wedge-style footbed with tons of squishy cushion underfoot. Credit: Trish Matheny
Light Foam Footbed
Light foam beds are cushiony right off the shelf and usually undeniably cheap. You might find these sandals as a quick solution when you get to the hotel and realize you forgot yours back home, or they can be a great shoe for the pool or gym shower. Though they are lightweight and inexpensive, they have minimal support, stability, and traction. They aren't the most durable option and may need to be replaced several times. However, novelty footbeds have a time and place. This is a great option for casual wearers because they are so inexpensive and comfortable for light use. Headed to the coffee shop or need a house shoe? They can handle that.
Light foam footbeds are a quick and inexpensive solution, but they'll often leave your feet hurting. Credit: Hayley Thomas
Foot-Molding Footbed
Foot-molding footbeds are just like they sound — they mold to your feet over time. These models are made from EVA or other foam/rubber compounds. They land right in the middle for durability, being far tougher than light foam footbeds but not quite as rigid as fully contoured styles. Right out of the box, they are comfortable and cushiony, and over time, the footbed becomes an exact mold of your foot. This type of flip flop is usually still pretty affordable. However, foot-molding options don't often have the best support or structural rigidity needed for true stability. With that in mind, these aren't the top choice for long days on your feet; however, they usually perform well for casual wear.
Footbeds like this will mold to your foot with wear. Credit: Zach Lovell
Contoured Footbed
These are best for most people because they are carefully crafted to mimic the natural shape of the foot. They are also quite expensive, but if you want a shoe that you can wear on the daily, and will last you years, the investment is worth it. The contoured design helps promote proper alignment and stability, reducing the risk of foot fatigue and discomfort. By offering targeted arch support and heel cups, these footbeds alleviate strain and provide a cushioned base for the entire foot. Depending on the shoe, the first few wears may feel a bit stiff, but comfort only improves over time as they break in. Contoured footbeds tend to be the most versatile. They are stable enough to take on light trails and sandy beaches, yet supportive enough to wear on a long stroll through town.
Contoured footbeds will provide more stability and support right out of the box. Credit: Brooke Hess
Consider Your Activity
Different activities call for varying levels of comfort, support, and durability. If you plan to wear your flip flops on a river run, you may prioritize a water-resistant option with exceptional traction. Those embarking on a hike need a flip flop with excellent stability and durability. Casual users won't need to prioritize those features, but comfort will be key. By considering the activities you plan to engage in, you can make a better-informed choice and choose a flip flop that meets your needs.
Lauren Miller loved wearing the Olukai Ohana between climbs at the crag in Spain thanks to the supportive footbed and comfy foam under foot. Credit: Trish Matheny
Water Activities
Days at the beach, pool, or lake are probably the most common times you'll want to wear flip flops. All to easy to slip on and off as you run in and out of the water. If this sounds like you, you'll want to make sure that your pair is actually made for water. While some options are obviously not (hello leather), others seem as though they'd be water friendly, but have permeable footbeds, which can hold water for long periods. This not only makes the shoe annoyingly heavy and soggy, but can also lead to the growth of mold and bacteria. If you plan on spending time by the pool, beach, or river, we recommend finding a water-resistant, quick-drying option instead. Closed-cell foam helps with this. This recommendation is especially important for those who wear flip-flops in locker room showers, where bacteria are prevalent.
If you're seeking a dedicated water shoe that will offer superior grip on wet surfaces, and won't fly off your foot at the first sign of a current, head over to our water shoe review to see which pairs we loved.
Certain options have better traction when wet. We appreciate specially textured footbeds that grip the foot when wet. This helps keep the foot in place and prevents the shoe from sliding off. The outsole is just as important here; a grippy shoe prevents you from loosing your footing on wet rocks and pool decks. Not only that, but water-resistant options often float, so you won't need to worry about losing them forever if they slip off, you just have to chase after them.
The Olukai Ohana prevents slippage when wet thanks to its grippy outsole, footbed, and straps. Credit: Jon Oleson
Casual Use
If you're looking for a casual shoe for quick dog walks or running errands, you likely won't need to worry too much about traction or water resistance. Instead, overall comfort is a top priority, as is style. You'll want something that will look good with the clothes you wear most often, so stepping it up to a nice leather or more substantially shaped foam option is the way to go here. It might be tempting to reach for those soft-foam flip flops you found for just a few bucks, but if you plan on being upright on your feet for any considerable amount of time, a pair that supports your entire foot will get more wear in the long run.
Even for casual use, be sure to choose a flip flop that is comfortable, like the Clarks Breeze Sea. Credit: Hayley Thomas
Trail Use
While flip flops are not our go-to shoe for trail use, we sometimes find ourselves traversing unexpected trails in order to get to that remote sunset beach. If this is a scenario you've found yourself in more than once, you probably know by now to be prepared for a little bit of everything. Traction and stability can be found in flip flops, to a certain extent. Look for shoes with deeper tread patterns, and since you won't have all-over coverage and shoe laces keeping you in place, finding a flip flop with additional contouring and raised edges in its footbed can be helpful. Adjustable straps are a must, that way, the shoe doesn't budge as you hop over rocks or ascend a steep slope.
Depending on your intended use, you might also consider the shoe's packability. If you're flying out for a much-needed beach vacation, or hunting for a shoe to slip into your suitcase just in case you decide to take a dip in the hotel pool during a work trip, you'll want something with a sleek and lightweight build that won't take up too much room in your luggage.
Flip flops aren't our first choice for hiking, but should you find yourself doing it, you want to be comfortable. Credit: Jon Oleson
Fit
The whole point of walking around in flip-flops is comfort and freedom. The last thing you want is your natural stride to be interrupted by having to grasp the shoe with your toes mid-step. Equally annoying is a too-tight strap, which can cause pinching, hot spots, and blisters.
The straps should hold your foot securely without being too tight or too loose. If the straps are too loose, they may allow excessive movement, which can affect the placement of the arch and heel cup when your foot strikes the ground. Conversely, if the straps are too tight, they can restrict the foot from fully extending into the toe box. Ideally, properly fitted straps will keep your foot properly aligned with the arch, toe box, and heel cup throughout each step. Some flip-flops come with adjustable straps, which can help address these fit issues.
The adjustable toe strap on the Birkenstock Gizeh is great for a variety of foot shapes and sizes. Credit: Trish Matheny
Many flip flops feel rather slim, and without sidewalls to hold your foot in place, those with wide feet can end up with their pinky toe hanging off the side. If you find your toes hanging off, those shoes don't fit! However, sizing up isn't always the solution, as you will also get more length. Certain brands are known for making wider fitting shoes, and some higher-end brands even make flip flops in wide width options. Those with narrow feet might have the opposite problem — shoes that are too big. Again, sizing down isn't always the best solution, as you might lose some length. If you want a secure fit, do some brand research and try to go into a store to try out the shoes in person.
Different models also have different arch support heights. Choosing the right level of support can help prevent conditions like plantar fasciitis. If you've got high arches, search for an option with greater arch support. In contrast, those with low arches should avoid arch-aggressive shoes, which may cause pain over time. Some flip flops will provide extra support through a rounded heel cup. This helps keep the heel bone secure and stable. If you choose a flip flop with a heel cup, ensure your heel sits comfortably in the center, or else be prepared to risk blisters.
The Olukai Ohana features non-marking rubber outsoles that are functional whether wet or dry. Credit: Trish Matheny
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Notable Mention
A few other flip flops caught our eye this season, but didn't make the final list for one reason or another. Here are some alternatives you might want to check out.
OluKai Ho'opio Malua - This shoe quickly became our favorite flip flop for the beach, thanks to a versatile performance that the shoe maintained whether wet or dry. The minimalist design was easy to pack, and the rubberized outsole worked great on a variety of surfaces. It dries quickly and offers just enough support for your commute to your favorite beach, and is much more durable than your classic foam options.
Birkenstock Gizeh Essentials EVA - our testers love this shoe for its affordable design that's perfect for the water thanks to a fast-drying, complete EVA construction that maintains comfort and enough support for shorter periods of wear.
The Birkenstock Gizeh EVA is a great choice for those seeking a water-friendly and affordable shoe with a little more support. Credit: Brooke Hess
Conclusion
Over the past decade, we've made it our mission to find the best gear, including these warm-weather must-haves. After being put through rigorous hands-on testing, this review represents some of our favorite models for men and women. We get how overwhelming it can be to find footwear, especially when options are saturated. We hope we've made it easier for you to tackle your warm-weather day-to-day activities in a pair of these top-rated flip flops.
