Podiatrist Dr Helen Branthwaite, Chief Clinical Adviser at the Royal College of Podiatry, Says It's "Not Accurate" to Label Flip-flops

Flip-flops may keep feet cool, but some styles could cause harm, experts say. Fashion forecaster Angela Baidoo notes the trendiest summer look is a kitten-heel flip-flop, easy to slip on and off. Podiatrist Dr Helen Branthwaite, chief clinical adviser at the Royal College of Podiatry, says it's "not accurate" to label flip-flops as bad, but warns that switching abruptly from structured shoes to flip-flops strains feet and raises injury risk.

Over time, feet may splay, akin to removing a corset. Baidoo recommends sturdier options like FitFlop, Crocs, Birkenstocks, wooden clogs, Scholl slider mules, wedges, and fisherman-style sandals, which offer support and style. For minimalist barefoot shoes, Branthwaite advises easing in gradually, not attempting a 5-mile hike immediately. Her foot-care tips: inspect shoe soles, check foot condition, moisturize daily with urea-based emollient, and get feet measured regularly as size changes over time.