Designer Shoes

Flip-flops are a flat, backless sandal that is secured to the foot by passing thongs from the sole, up between the middle and big toes and over the top of the foot, before attaching back to the sole.  Alternatively a loop of material is attached to the top of the sole, under which the wearer slides their foot.

Flip-flops are popularly used in warm climates, on the beach or during outdoor relaxation.  As the cheapest form of footwear, Flip-flops are very popular in many developing countries and are often considered to be disposable footwear.  However, it should be no surprise that many designers make a variety of fashionable flip-flops and sandals that are sold at a range of prices – the most expensive being H. Stern’s $17,000 pair of flip-flops with over 1500 gold feathers, accented with diamonds!  Most flip-flops, however, last for about a year and, although they can easily be fixed, they are commonly replaced instead – like most designer shoes.

Inspired by traditional Japanese sandals, flip-flops became common beach wear in New Zealand in the 1930s, before being introduced to the Western world in the 1950s when Morris Yock invented the modern design in 1957.  They are very popular with people who enjoy being barefoot, but need to wear some kind of footwear.  They are also popular at gyms and leisure centres where foot funguses and infections are easily spread on swimming-pool and shower floors.  Due to their lightweight nature, they are commonly used and carried by travellers and even the army!

Despite being comfortable, the lack of ankle support can lead to injuries and the open-top nature can cause many toe-stubbings!  Furthermore, recent research has suggested that flip-flop wearers take shorter steps when they walk, due to gripping the flip-flop with their toes, which makes their heels hit the ground with less vertical force than wearers of athletic shoes.  This means that the force strikes the ankle in other directions, leading to some painful hip and ankle conditions.

Did You Know: Flip-flops are known as “thongs” in Australia?  The potentially confusing scenarios are infinite!