If you're a fan of flip-flops, choose your Summer shoes carefully. I've already gone over the many reasons why flip-flops are bad for your feet: they strain your arches, make your tendons work overtime, and lack ankle support, leading to possible injury.
But that doesn't mean you have to ditch the flips entirely. Just look for a more structured sandal with heel cups and sculpted arches that will keep your feet stable. Simply put, "The less flip in your flop, the better it is for your feet and legs," said Justin Shroyer, an assistant professor of kinesiology at the University of Louisiana-Lafayette who studied more than 100 flip-flop wearers.
Sandals with heel indentations and arch support will allow you to walk more naturally, rather than straining your toes to keep the sandals from falling off. I was impressed with FitFlops, which may or may not tone your backside but offer far more support than regular flip-flops.
Still, Shroyer warns that flip-flops shouldn't be worn on long walks. Think of the Summer shoe as more of a transitional accessory that you wear from house to pool or car to beach. Do you have any supportive flip-flops to recommend?
