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Time to upgrade your spring and summer footwear.
Photo: Courtesy of Brand.
Photo:Photo: Courtesy of Brand. EatingWell design.
Warm weather is on the way, and with that comes the need for breathable shoes like flip-flops.
Unfortunately, they arent always the most comfortablewalking sandals.
Most of us need shoes with arch support or, at the minimum, a little added cushion.
Zappos
What to Swap: Flimsy Flip-Flops
Flip-flops are the quintessential shoe for spring and summer!
They keep feet dry and are easy to slip on.
However, theyre too flimsy and too flat, saysDr.
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Saylee Tulpule, board-certified podiatrist.
Poorly fitting flip-flops can also increase the risk of toe fractures and nail trauma, Tulpule says.
They should support the arch, provide shock absorption, and enhance overall comfort, Tulpule recommends.
Nordstrom
Other podiatrists agree that these sandals leave much to be desired, despite being an everyday go-to.
Luckily, these doctors shared what they want you to wear instead.
Vionic Tide II Sandal
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This was the most recommended brand across the board.
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Nearly all the podiatrists I polled recommended Vionic shoes, with two explicitly calling out the Tide model.
Theyre designed with podiatrist-developed orthotic technology, saysDr.
Naim Shaheed, D.P.M., FACFAS, at Ankle & Foot Centers of America.
Zappos
They cradle your feet for maximum comfort, including toe and arch support.
Unlike classic rubber sandals, these have added tread on the sole for stability.
Because of its durable rubber, theyre great for the beach or pool.
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We think they make forcomfy house shoesandwalking shoes.
Theyre also water-resistant, so theyre perfect for outdoor adventures.
This is another version of the flip-flop that Tulpule prefers for folks looking for a little added support.
Zappos
They check all of the boxesplus theyre chic-looking with a shiny black strap.
Birkenstock Arizona Sandal
Two podiatristsShaheed andDr.
Adenike Sonaike, a podiatrist and medical director at Baker Street Health in Motionrecommend Birkenstock Arizona sandals.
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Not only that, but they might even add extra security.
These are classic, durable, and have an orthopedic footbed, says Shaheed.
FitFlop Surfa Flip-Flop
Along with Vionic,Dr.
The sandals manufactured by this company are very well-designed and quite durable.
They also have a comfortable, supportive insole and they are well-cushioned.
Merrell Fleur Slide
These Merrell slides combine a stylish look with a supportive feel.
They have the hallmark features that Sonaike looks for.
We recommend swapping your open-toe flip-flop sandals for a more sturdy and open option with straps, she says.
They have the arch support and padding you need for your feet in a more low-profile design.
The signature Teva straps keep your feet in place fordaily walks.
