In a world where combat boots, platform shoes, and designer sneakers are all the rage, it is incredible to see a new trend emerge for footwear. Ever since school has started, one trend has become very apparent—the return of flip flops. For many years it had been seen as taboo to have your toes out in the open, however, many have begun embracing it.
For many, the revival of flip flops was unexpected, but when looking at trends over the past years, the return of flip flops makes more sense. In the past years, big logos and designs have slowly faded away in favor of more simple, minimalist pieces. Since what is more simple than a shoe sole with two straps between your big toe? Likewise, consumers have prioritized comfort in their clothing. With flip flops, people have the ability to give their feet the space it needs without being squeezed into a tight shoe.
Many students have embraced the style; Kieran Beckham (12)shares “Wearing Flip flops or slides feels freeing.” Despite it just being an article of clothing flip flops have helped students, Kieran explains, “ With the stresses of balancing sports, school, and applying for college, having something easy and comfortable to wear gives me one less thing to worry about”. Yet not all students are supportive over this new movement. When asked about flip flops, Braden Walker (10) revealed, “I think they should put some socks on. I like wearing slides and how comfortable they are, but I think people need to start wearing socks. I don’t want to see everyone’s feet all the time.”
While flip flops remain a controversial topic of debate, what hasn’t been answered is: are flip flops good for us? Could these symbols of relaxation be causing us problems? The answer is complex; however, in short, yes.
Flip flops and slides do offer breathability and comfortability to our feet, but it comes at a cost. Since the shoe has no heel or ankle support, it leads to more stress put onto the foot. That stress can lead to issues not only in the foot, but also trickle to the entire body. Issues like bunions, hammertoes, and tendonitis can all happen with long term use of Flip Flops. These issues typically depend on the person’s pre-existing foot health, but for those who wear flip flops occasionally, there should be no issue (Gotham Footcare).
Now with fall just beginning temperatures will drop and it will soon be too cold to wear open toed shoes, and only time will tell if flip flops will be a lasting trend or only a fad of this past year. However, for those who can’t give up their flip flops, maybe wear some sneakers and give your feet a rest.