How many of you reach for your favourite (and possibly years-old) flip-flops when summer rolls around? Or maybe you’ll treat yourself to some cute sandals that look trendy, but aren’t so good at supporting your feet (which is hard when the sole is a piece of flat plastic that holds together the straps and keeps your feet from getting dirty)?
We hate to break it to you, but if that’s your go-to summer footwear, you’re in trouble. See, both flip-flops (or thongs) and some sandals offer little to no arch support, heel cushioning or shock absorption. And if you’re wearing them for long periods of time and walking around all day in them, you’re not only causing damage to your feet (that’s toes, heels, soles – the lot), but you could be damaging your ankles, legs and even posture, too.
So what’s the solution? Finding summer footwear that will help you feel just as ready for days at the beach and wandering around in the sunshine and that will also give you the support you need. And, despite what you may think, this doesn’t have to come at the compromise of something that looks good, too.
The Athlete’s Foot (yep, they do summer shoes) has an entire range of supportive sandals that will actually do you and your feet some good while ensuring your outfit doesn’t have to suffer.
FOR THE WOMAN ON THE GO
Summer doesn’t always mean lounging by the pool or laying at the beach. And if you’re the kind of woman who’s either running around doing a million different things or spending some sunshine hours on long beach or nature walks, then you need a sandal that’s going to go the distance with you.
Merrell Women’s Agave Lavish is going to see you throughout all of that. The carefully molded shape offers maximum support and comfort, while the material and design of the straps while ensure your feet are totally secure while you run around. You can also be sure that your feet won’t feel gross and stinky, because the lining has been treated to control odours. The style’s also available in a whole array of colours, so you can easily find one to fit your wardrobe.
FOR THE WOMAN WHO NEEDS A STYLISH SUMMER STAPLE
Cute, trendy sandals don’t actually have to come at the price of damaged feet, and if you’re on the hunt for summer sandals that will go with everything and suit every occasion, then it’s probably a good idea to invest in a shoe that will offer maximum support. You will be wearing them basically all summer, after all.
Scholl Orthaheel Malibu features a fancy little loop design on the top and a comfortable mid-foot strap, making it the perfect style solution for your everyday (and night) wear. But besides that, the shape of footbed gives your feet all-day comfort and support, and the nifty webbing toe post will ensure your feet fit in the sandal like a dream. The only problem you’ll have is figuring out which colour to choose (you should probably get a few, though…).
FOR THE WOMAN WHO WANTS SUPERIOR FIT
No one should ever have to compromise for something that kinda feels okay when what you really want is a sandal that feels comfortable and secure, and is easy on the eyes, too.
Propet Bahama Sandalis the sandal you go to when you want all of those boxes ticked. First off, the genuine leather upper and soft leather lining, combined with a soft padded insole, means that these sandals will feel heavenly when you walk. Then, you add into the mix the four-way adjustable straps (which means ultimate fit and comfort) and a slip-resistant sole, and you’ve got a sandal that’ll see you through any day – no matter how much walking you’re doing.
Side note for the young hipsters-at-heart: this strap style is uber-trendy at the moment, so you may as well invest in a shoe that keeps you at the top of your fashion game while caring for your feet, too.
Are you guilty of sporting unsupportive sandals and thongs during summer? Would you prefer to wearing something more supportive?