Reef Fanning, Men's Flip Flop

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READ NEXT: The best slipper boots, mules and pumps you can buy The best flip-flops you can buy in 2022 1. Havaianas Slim Animals Flip Flop: Best women’s beach flip-flops Nike’s Benassi Slides aren’t waterproof. They dry off fast enough, but will feel a bit soggy if you submerge them in the pool or sea. On the upside, their EVA (or “Phylon”, to use Nike’s branding) rubber is much softer than waterproof plastic, so they won’t rub your feet or make you sweaty like a pair of old-fashioned jelly shoes would. They also mould to your feet over time, which means it’s worth putting up with a slight pinch at first. Today’s flip-flops come in a surprisingly wide range of styles for different needs. There are sassy designer slip-ons for summer parties, ergonomic support flip-flops for hiking, and soft rubber soles for pool and beach.

Flip-flops for wearing around town: Super-cheap flip-flops will be murder for your feet on pavements. As well as falling apart fast, they’ll be slippery and unsupportive, leaving you with aching arches and ankles. So, invest in a supportive footbed and soles with decent depth and traction. Great-looking urban flip-flops such as the Teva Mush offer style and substance. Gum rubber is the perfect material for beach flip-flops. It’s a natural product made by harvesting sap from Hevea brasiliensis (aka rubber trees) without the need to chop them down. It’s durable, supple and waterproof without being so non-absorbent that it makes your feet clammy. British company FitFlop has spent well over a decade perfecting its recipe for comfortable flip-flops. Many of its products look more like pillowy sandals than flip-flops, but once they’re on, these bronze iQushion flip-flops wouldn’t appear out of place on the beach or at a poolside party.Key specs – Material: Croslite (EVA) and polyurethane; Colours available: 13; Sizes available: 10 (UK 4-12)

Key specs – Material: Synthetic leather strap, EVA “Phylon” foam sole; Colours available: 5; Sizes available: 6 (UK 3.5—17)

Havaianas hand-makes all its flip-flops in Brazil using natural gum rubber, so you might expect them to cost a pretty penny. But they’re more affordable than we’d have assumed – and a lot more durable than they look. Yes, you should. Flip-flops, like slippers, will expand after a few wears, so it’s best to err on the tight side when buying. Slip-ons shouldn’t constantly be slipping off.

Now 30 years later, we’re still at it, encouraging people around the globe to embrace the fun, freedom and spirit of the beach while living life by one simple rule: Beach Freely. Whether you’re surfing, barb-queuing, metal detecting, sand castle building, day drinking, guitar playing, or just hanging at the beach...beach any way you want. Our products are designed to make you feel comfortable, relaxed and free in any environment, whether you’re at the beach or not.

You wouldn’t want to walk far in them, though, and some users complain that the strap rubs, especially if your feet are on the wide side. But they’re great all-rounders whose classic appearance suits most outfits and occasions. Key specs – Material: Gum rubber sole, polyurethane strap; Colours available: 2; Sizes available: 3 (UK 2-9) Havaianas’ lightweight cushioned footbed is comfy enough for schlepping around the house and mooching up and down the beachfront, and they’re hard-wearing enough not to lose their shape after one season. There’s also a fab rice pattern tread to stop you slipping. However, they’re not designed for a lot of walking, so if you’re planning to explore a city you’ll want a more supportive ’flop, such as a FitFlop. Havaianas are as affordable as a really good-quality pair of flip-flops can be, though, and they look fabulous. British-made Oofos are ergonomic to the power of 10. They’re not just comfy, they’re so comfy you won’t want to take them off – and you really will be able to walk all day in them.