Flip Flops

Flip Flops Style

Flip Flops--also known as thongs--are everywhere these days. They were even spotted at the White House when a group of girls wore them to meet the President, which caused a bit of a scandal. They go everywhere--from the beach to formals, and even to weddings. Universal, these shoes are found on the feet of men, women and children.

Flip Flops used to be just a flat, foam rubber bottom with a matching piece of rubber that threaded between your first two toes for security. Now they're available in wedge heels, kitten heels and any color or pattern you can dream of. You can find them decorated with sequins or embroidered. Flip flops definitely aren't always the cheap shoes they were before. You can still find them for a dollar or two at stores like Wal-Mart, but don't be surprised if you run across a pair that retails at $40.00 or more.

There Are Definite Pluses…

Overall, flip flops are some of the least expensive shoes you can buy. Because of that, you can stock your shoe closet full of them. They're versatile enough to wear with shorts or dress down a skirt or dress. There are so many styles, you'll never get bored with them and again, that means flip flops accessorize all types of clothing nicely.

Thongs are great for when you have a coffee craving and the coffee shop closes in ten minutes. You can slip your feet right in, race to the car, make a mad dash for the counter or drive-thru. Then come home and kick them back off effortlessly to enjoy your latte.

Got a great pedi? Your simple flip flops will put it on display. Make sure your heels are scrubbed and your nails are clean.

The Perils of Thongs

For all the pluses of flip flops, there are definite minuses. Dr. Cohen was quoted in Forbes Magazine on the dangers of wearing flip-flops. He stated that no support equals foot injury. Flip flops don't hold your foot in place at all, so one wrong step could cost you an ankle thanks to a sprain or other type of injury. The Forbes article says that thongs are actually worse for your feet than stilettos or strappy sandals. Never would have thought so, huh? The article also explains how the spongy bottom of the shoe offers so little shock absorption that the foot rolls in more than it normally would. The arch is open with no support, so it's unable to do its job of absorbing that shock. So, does this occurrence have a name? Yep--pronation.

Tips for Wearing Thongs

• Wear them only a little at a time--that means just a few hours. Don't spend your whole summer in them. Mix it up with a pair of regular comfortable shoes or athletic shoes.

• Try Birkenstock Shoes as an alternative. Your foot's still in the flat position, but you're offered better support.

• If you'll be walking for any distance, try choosing a lightweight pair of walking shoes instead.

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