Whether you’re looking for cute flip-flops for a beach vacation, the best flip-flops for outdoor adventures, or just the most comfortable flip-flops to run around town, this toe-free footwear can serve multiple purposes. We know it can be hard to pick out shoes online, so our experts have rigorously tested 10 styles of flip-flops for women and we have all the inside scoop to share.
Our tester, Brandy Jo Hastings, is a beach-loving outdoor adventurer who lives in Florida and has worn flip-flops for 4 decades. Over the years, Brandy has tried many great ones, but just like Jimmy Buffett in Margaritaville, a few flip-flops have also blown out during use.
Drawing on her personal experience and trial and error, Brandy has prioritized what to look for in women’s flip-flops. She has spent the last 7 months trying multiple styles to determine the best for various situations.
We’ve walked a mile (or 10) in your shoes and thoroughly tested each to share the things we love and don’t love about each. We tested each flip-flop for comfort, traction, and performance in dry and wet situations. We also tested support, style, packability, and versatility. We’ve listed our favorites below and compared each in our comparison chart.
If you haven’t worn flip-flops much or feel overwhelmed by all of the options, check out our in-depth buyer’s guide and FAQ to help you learn what to consider when searching for the best flip-flops for you.
Editor’s Note: We updated this guide on August 26, 2024, by adding two new products the Birkenstock Gizeh Birko Flor, our most stylish pick, and the Astral Rosa, a versatile option that can double as a sandal or a flip. We also added updates for each product regarding what we learned after 5 more months of testing and added a few key sections to the Buyer’s Guide, including a discussion of comfort, break-in period, materials, sustainability, toe bars, and anti-odor.
The Best Flip-Flops for Women of 2024
- Best Overall Flip-Flops for Women: OluKai ‘Ohana Flip-Flops
- Best Budget Flip-Flops for Women: Teva Olowahu Flip-flops
- Best Flip-Flops for Women for All-Day Comfort: HOKA ORA Recovery Flip
- Best Beach-to-Brunch Flip-Flops for Women: Chaco Classic Flip
- Most Stylish Flip-Flops for Women: Birkenstock Gizeh Birko Flor
OluKai ‘Ohana Flip-Flops – Women’s
Specifications
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Many color options available
- Super comfortable for all-day wear
- Quick drying
- No break-in period
Cons
- Footbed gets hot when left out in the heat
- A little squeak when they get wet
Having one pair of go-to shoes that work for so many occasions is nice. The OluKai ‘Ohana ($75) is your ride-or-die flip-flop. It is ready to wear straight out of the package, and there’s no break-in period. You can wear these for extended periods, as they have a contoured footbed that cradles your feet and offers just the right amount of support. You can feel confident that your feet will still be happy even after walking for hours like we did.
Aside from the comfort, the durability of these is another big factor that made us choose these as the Best Overall Flip Flops for Women. After 7 months of use, we’ve seen no signs of wear and tear on the footbed, straps, or rugged soles. The straps are securely fastened to the shoes, and our tester has tried to be exceptionally rough on these by pulling and tugging in an attempt to find any signs of weakness. So far, we haven’t found anything that makes us question the durability of these, and we feel like these are quality flip-flops that are made to last a long time.
We also loved that they were thin enough to pack for a beach vacation easily. Don’t feel like you have to put them in your suitcase, though. We also wore these for full days of traveling and running through airports. The tread on the soles performed well when we were running and trying to make a connecting flight. That tread also made us feel stable when out on a boat with friends and while walking along the shoreline of the beach.
That high-quality tread does make these a little bit heavier than some other flip flops we tested, but it didn’t affect their comfort level. tread on the soles performed well when our tester was running and trying to make a connecting flight.
Our team tested all of the flip-flops by leaving them out by the pool on a hot Florida day and saw that our black pair of OluKai ‘Ohanas was one of the top two that didn’t perform as well in this test. When testing by touch and with an infrared digital thermometer, we realized this was one of the shoes that got the hottest.
Our tester loved these so much, this wasn’t a deal breaker. After several times with burned feet over the years, she’s learned to flip them over or cover the footbed with her beach towel so they aren’t exposed to the brutal sun. You can also just throw these water-resistant shoes in the water to cool them down quickly.
Also, we noticed that these shoes have a smoother footbed than others. This led to a squeaking sound when walking after they got wet. Luckily, they dry quickly, so it’s not a deal breaker.
If you’re looking for versatile flip-flops known for comfort, you will love the OluKai ‘Ohana. They were great for everything from the beach to running around town. With their more sporty look, we don’t consider these the most dressy. However, they still pair well with everything from shorts to swimsuits to casual sundresses. Lucky for us, too, they come in 14 colors.
If you don’t mind paying a little more to have a pair of flip-flops that’s going to last a long time, we think this one is a good investment. After months of wearing these, we can tell they’ll be able to last a long time. The guys loved their version of this one, too — the OluKai ‘Ohana was also chosen as the 2024 Best Overall Flip-Flop for Men.
Teva Olowahu Flip-Flops
Specifications
Pros & Cons
Pros
- The unique strappy style makes this one of the most fashionable ones we tested
- Lowest priced flip-flop of the ones we tested
- Quick-drying straps made from recycled plastic
Cons
- Non-traditional tan lines due to the straps
- Not as easy to slide on quickly
- Toe post rubbed between toes
We were surprised to find one of the cutest flip-flops also ended up being the lowest priced. We found the Teva Olowahu Flip-flops ($34) comfortable enough to throw on with a swimsuit and walk along the shoreline picking up seashells but also cute enough to dress up a little. Our flip-flop expert even paired these with a tropical dress to wear to a beach wedding in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
The straps on these made us love them, but there are also some things to consider with this unique design. While this Y-strap style goes between your toes, these flips also come with additional straps and seven attachment points. Those extra straps can result in some interesting tan lines. To avoid that, just lather your feet in some reef-safe sunscreen before heading out in the sun, and you’ll be fine.
Also, the additional straps make it a bit challenging to slide them on quickly. What’s an extra 5 seconds for fashion, though? We didn’t find that to be a big deal at all. But, it was worth noting because you have to sit down and ensure all toes go where they are supposed to go.
The straps on this one didn’t provide any major discomfort when they were dry, but that was a little different once they got wet. While the straps across the top of our tester’s feet were rubbed a little when wet, the toe post (the part of the strap that goes between your big toe and the rest of your toes) caused the most problems because of its position.
Unlike the other traditional Y-strap flip-flops, which had the toe post cradled its widest side between your big toe and second toe, the Teva Olowahu has the thinnest edge positioned to meet the skin between your toes, and you can really feel the rub when it is wet.
Luckily, though, the straps dried quickly. Even if they are dry, you can still feel the rub between your toes if you are walking for extended periods of time, but these shoes aren’t really made for that purpose.
After wearing these for a few months, the fabric on the toe post seemed to soften up some over time and wasn’t quite as abrasive between our toes. We’d still love these more if the toe post was positioned differently, though.
If you’re looking for fashionable flip-flops to wear on the town, the Teva Olowahu is a great choice. They are cute and comfortable but aren’t the best for watersports or rugged activities. While they do offer fashion and some function, we lean more toward the fashionable side with this one. The straps on this one are also made from recycled plastic, and they are vegan, so these are a great choice for those who are focused on sustainability too.
HOKA ORA Recovery Flip
Specifications
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Most comfortable of all of the flip-flops we tested
- Lining inside of straps provided additional comfort
- Recognized by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) as a product that is beneficial to foot health
Cons
- A little bulky to pack in a suitcase or throw in a beach bag
- Footbed gets hot when left in the sun
The HOKA ORA Recovery Flip ($60) was the most comfortable flip-flop we tested. HOKA is known for the Meta-Rocker in the soles of its athletic shoes, and you’ll find that same unique feature in its flip-flops. This technology that is unique to HOKA and the oversized cushioned midsole made these a dream to wear all day.
If you are a runner or hiker, you’ll also discover that these are great to throw on after being active as they warmly embrace your tired, achy feet. The American Podiatric Medical Association has even recognized its benefits, and you’ll see these shoes listed on the APMA website with a seal of approval.
Besides the soles that made us feel like we were walking on a cloud, we must also point out the stellar straps. These traditional Y-strap flip-flops have three points where they attach to the shoe, but the toe strap is a little longer and comes up higher on your foot than the others we tested.
This allows the wide strap going across your foot to sit back a little further. This created a completely different feel that we loved. The lining inside the strap was soothing as well and never caused any discomfort, no matter if it was wet or dry.
While the oversized sole provided so much comfort, it also brought some challenges. We loved these so much and wanted to take them everywhere. However, their bulky size made packing them a little difficult. They weren’t as thin as most of the other flip-flops we tested and took up a lot of space in our suitcase and beach bag.
The footbed on the black pair we tried also retained the most heat out of all those tested when left out by the pool on a hot Florida day. It wasn’t unbearable, but it was noticeable. We just tossed them in the water to cool them down and put them on. That led us to find that the wet footbed did cause a little squeak when we walked, but these shoes have a great tread and we never felt unstable walking on the pool deck with these when they were wet.
The HOKA ORA Recovery Flip is ideal for active people who want something to throw on after working out to rest their achy feet. However, these are the most comfortable flip-flops that we tested overall. We would recommend these to anyone just looking for an all-purpose, quality pair of flip-flops that are also great for walking for extended periods of time. They are a sportier design, so it is harder to dress them up, but they are great for walking, everyday casual use, or recovery.
Chaco Classic Flip
Specifications
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Good for those who need a little arch support
- Thin design makes it easy to pack for your beach vacation
- Footbed provided great stability when worn in the water
Cons
- There is a break-in period for the straps
- Not a good option for those with wider feet
The Chaco Classic Flip ($65) has a contoured footbed that delivers Chaco’s LUVSEAT arch support. We noticed the great support as soon as we slipped these shoes onto our feet. We really loved the footbed and sole on this one. While it is not as thick as some of the other flip-flops we tested, we saw this as a plus.
Our tester was able to easily throw them in her overly packed suitcase to bring them along on her island vacation.
While these were thinner, the design of the sole and footbed was not lacking. The firm footbed and sole both had textured surfaces and great traction. These offered excellent traction and stability when wet.
Even though these performed awesomely in aquatic situations, they were also quite stylish. These have a somewhat sporty design but aren’t clunky and are super cute flip-flops.
We did find that these flip-flops have a break-in period, though. We made the mistake of wearing these for the first time on a day that involved a lot of walking and quickly learned that may not have been the best excursion to break them in. We wore them for about 5 hours that day and realized within the first hour that the straps were creating blisters on the tops of our feet. The area between our toes was fine, but the tops of our feet weren’t.
Despite that first impression, we’re so glad we continued to test them and didn’t give up on them. The more we wore these, the more we loved them. The fabric on the straps softened up over time, and the footbed seemed to mold to our feet more as we continued to wear them. After months of wearing them, they’ve become one of our favorites.
It is important to note, too, that our tester doesn’t have wide feet and still experienced this break-in period with the straps. The footbed fit her perfectly, but we don’t feel this would be the best option for those with wider feet.
The corrective footbed in these is recognized by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) and is great for those who want a cute flip-flop with arch support. These are also great for those participating in aquatic activities who are looking for extra traction.
In addition, although the Chaco Classic Flips ranked high in performance and function and are good for your feet, we thought these were cute and had a lot of versatility. They are perfect to wear straight from the beach to brunch or as an everyday go-to shoe.
Birkenstock Gizeh Birko-Flor
Specifications
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Curved edges on footbed keep your feet in place
- Contoured footbed that gets better with time
- Fashionable style
Cons
- Not good for use in the water
- There is a break in period
- Plastic toe posts can take some getting used to
The Birkenstock Gizeh Birko Flor ($100) is a unique and fashionable variation on traditional Y-strap flip-flops. The footbed is roomy, and with the adjustable buckle on the strap, this could be a great flip-flop for women with wider feet. This is one of the variations of the Gizeh style, and this one has the Birko Flor synthetic material on the straps.
We found the unique style of these to be really fun, and we were able to pair it with several outfits. The cool design made these flip-flops easy to dress up or down. When we got blisters from another pair of shoes we had brought along for a work conference, the Birkenstock Gizeh Birko-Flor came to the rescue. We ended up pairing them with business casual outfits for the rest of the conference. They looked great, and our feet were happy in the contoured footbed.
The footbed is made of the cork latex that Birkenstock has become known for. Even with the suede footbed lining, it feels very firm at first. But the more you wear these shoes, the more they mold perfectly to your feet. The larger plastic toe post was different as well and took a little getting used to. These really got better with time, though, and felt so great after wearing them just a few times.
We also loved that the footbed is curved up along the edges, and felt that it made us feel really secure and stable in these shoes. We even wore them out to a concert, and these flips performed well as we danced all night in them. They were perfect shoes to wear to an outdoor concert — until the rain came. While we all love dancing in the rain, we kept thinking that the cork soles weren’t going to fare well in a muddy wet mess.
The Birkenstock Gizeh Birko-Flor is not made to be submerged in water, and we were a little concerned. While you don’t want to intentionally get these wet, they did alright. We’re happy to report that after letting them air-dry for a couple of days, they will live to see another concert. But we still aren’t pushing our luck and won’t be getting these wet intentionally — these aren’t water shoes.
The Birkenstock Gizeh Birko-Flor is a great shoe for land lovers looking for comfort and style. These are high-quality, comfortable shoes, and you’ll love the way they cradle your feet and get better with time. These can also be an ideal flip-flop for women with wide feet since they have a roomier area for your toes and have a buckle on the strap that can be adjusted.
If you’re looking for flip-flops that are made for the water, though, these aren’t the ones. The soles have good traction, but the cork-latex footbed won’t fare well when submerged in water. If you like the style of this one but want something water-resistant, we recommend the Birkenstock Gizeh Essentials collection.
Astral Rosa Flip-Flops
Specifications
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Included Super Strap lets you wear them as flip flops or sandals
- Wide toe box
- Dries quickly
Cons
- Rubber rectangle on strap broke the first time we wore them
- Straps can be a little challenging to figure out at first
- Raised area behind the toes can take some getting used to
When we first unboxed the Astral Rosa ($79), we were so excited because it was like getting two pairs of shoes instead of one. These flip-flops come with additional Super Straps that can be added to transform these into sandals. We loved the versatility that these provide and felt that really made them stand apart from other flip-flops we’ve tried.
Upon slipping them on our feet, we noticed the wider toebox that allowed plenty of room for our toes to spread out and feel free. Our feet aren’t wide, so we had some additional space between our feet and the straps, which meant we never experienced any uncomfortable rubbing from the Y strap.
With that additional space, we wondered if we would feel secure in these shoes, but we put them to the test and jumped right in — literally. We jumped right into the pool to see how they performed in water. The grippy footbed kept our foot in place just fine in wet and dry situations. We also loved that these dried really quickly.
While we loved the included straps, they did present some challenges at first. We put them on incorrectly a few times and got frustrated that the straps weren’t sitting correctly on our feet. But we gave in and watched the video on Astral’s website showing how to properly install the straps, and then — perfection! It wasn’t difficult, but user error made all the difference in how the straps were laying. We wished we had just watched the one-minute video sooner.
We put the straps to the real test for a trip to Tennessee and wore them whitewater rafting on the Nolichucky River. Unfortunately, the rubber rectangle on the strap broke while on the river that day — the first day we used them. The straps still worked, but the little rubber piece helped the additional end piece of the strap lay down. We gave the straps another try while e-biking through the Cherokee National Forest and liked the additional security the straps provided when cycling.
Another interesting feature of the Astral Rosa flip flops is the raised toe bar that lies between your toes and the ball of your foot. Since these shoes don’t come in a half size, we sized up and felt that the length fit well.
However, the toe bar didn’t always seem to sit where it was supposed to when wearing these as flip-flops, and we felt it rubbing against the ball of our feet when walking. It didn’t cause any pain, but it was noticeable at times and took some getting used to. We really liked these flip-flops but felt that they would have been just as good without the toe bar.
The Rosas are a good option for those who can’t decide on a new pair of flip-flops or sandals because, with these, you can have both in one shoe. If you’re looking for one shoe that can be used for a variety of activities and stay on your feet a little better than traditional flip-flops, you’ll really like these. They’re great in the water, and the strap provides extra stability. The Astral Rosa isn’t the dressiest of the ones we tried, though, so we lean more toward function than fashion with this one.
Specifications
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Largest range of sizes of the flip-flops we reviewed
- Easy to slide on
- Good for wide feet
- Machine washable
Cons
- Lighter colors show dirt easily
- Not the best for wearing in the water
The OOFOS OOahh Slide ($60) is made from the OOFOS OOfoam technology, shock absorbers meant to absorb impact, and provide the perfect blend of stability and cushion. The company claims that it absorbs 37% more impact than traditional footwear. While we don’t have a way to test that exact number, we can say that this one was very comfortable.
This style is also a slide with a wide strap across the top of your foot but doesn’t have the Y-strap going between your first and second toes. This eliminates the possibility of any irritation between your toes. There won’t be any irritation on the bottom of your feet either even if you leave these outside.
These performed the best in our heat test. While any shoe left in the hot sun will get hot, according to our infrared thermometer, these didn’t get as hot as the others.
These flips are a great option for those with wider and larger feet. Of all of the women’s flip-flops we tested, the OOFOS OOahh offered the largest size range (5-16). All of the others only went up to a size 11 or 12.
Our tester found that the strap that goes across your foot had a little extra room between her feet and the strap, so these were made a little wider. This makes it a little less secure on narrow feet, but of the ones we tried, this was the best flip-flop for wide feet.
While the OOFOS OOahh Slide is awesome and provides a lot of comfort, we found a couple of drawbacks. They were easy to slip onto our feet, which also made it easier for them to fall off.
The textured footbed holds your foot in place, but without the additional Y-strap between your toes like the standard flip-flops, there is less to hold your feet in place when you are active. These shoes aren’t made for being active, but they’re great for recovery after you’ve been active.
We also tried the OOFOS Ooriginal ($60), which is made from the same OOfoam technology but has a Y-strap that goes between your toes. This one had a similar feel since it was made of the same materials, but the different strap held our feet more securely in place.
These flips also showed dirt on the lighter color that we tested. It didn’t rinse off as easily as the other flip-flops and had a dingy color after we put them through the wringer working in the yard and walking in the sand at the beach. However, this one claimed to be machine washable, so we tested it out. After one wash, they looked as good as new again.
The OOFOS OOahh Slide (and its sister, the OOFOS Ooriginal) is a great option for anyone looking for a comfortable slide to wear daily. We found these to be soothing to wear after a day on our feet and think they serve as a great recovery shoe for those with tired feet.
Podiatrists feel the same way, and this is another that APMA has recommended as being beneficial for those with foot problems. The wider style and strap make these the perfect flip-flops for women with wider feet.
Specifications
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Super comfortable
- Inner lining under the strap and on the toe post is made from recycled water bottles
- Dries quickly
Cons
- Has a little squeak when it gets wet
- Limited color options
The Reef Cushion Breeze ($40) is still one of our favorite flip-flops for women, although it is less than half the price of the most expensive one we tested. The footbed is one of the most important places where we measure comfort, and this shoe doesn’t disappoint. It offers a nice cushion to your feet. After wearing these for 7 months, we’re just starting to notice a slight bit of wear in the footbed, but these flip-flops still have a lot of life left in them.
We also learned the hard way that these clean up easily. Our lead tester scraped against a thorny bush and cut her foot while working in the yard. She got blood on these shoes and was worried they may be forever stained, but she was happily surprised that she was able to clean these flip-flops up to look as good as new. We appreciated that they were easy to wipe down and keep clean, as that keeps them looking nice for a longer time.
Another great thing to point out about the Reef Cushion Breeze is the comfort of the Y-strap. It is made from vegan leather but has a soft webbing liner under the strap that is actually made from recycled plastic bottles. The toe post (the part of the strap that goes between your big toe and the rest of your toes) is also made from that material as well.
As hard as it is to think of a plastic bottle adding additional comfort to your flip-flop experience, it truly does. It is not abrasive at all and is really comforting. We didn’t experience any discomfort or blistered feet with this one. We also totally love the sustainability of this flip-flop. It feels good to be doing our part to help the planet.
While we would love to help the planet even more and order this in every color possible, our options are limited. This flip-flop only comes in four colors, and we would love to see a larger number of hues available. The colors offered are versatile enough to pair well with a variety of outfits, though.
Another thing we noticed when wearing these is that they squeak a little when wet Our lead tester first noticed it when getting stuck out in a Florida rainstorm. The footbed is not textured like some of the others, and she wasn’t as confident in her feet staying put. The sole does have some texture, though, and still made her feel stable in the rain.
She tested it again in the pool to ensure the squeak wasn’t a part of the breaking-in period, but it did occur again. It’s a little annoying to hear, but since they dried pretty quickly, the sound didn’t last long.
The Reef Cushion Breeze is a great option if you are looking for a comfortable everyday flip-flop that doesn’t cost a lot. We feel these are quality flip-flops offered at a value price. They aren’t fancy, but they are great for everyday use and seem to do well with extended wear.
Specifications
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Toes are protected from stubbing them on rocks
- Great traction and foot stability when in the water and crawling over rocks and logs
- Treated with Eco Anti-Odor for odor control
Cons
- Covered big toe can take awhile to get used to
- Straps are the slowest to dry of the ones we tested
- Limited number of color options
The Keen Bali Slide ($90) was the most nontraditional of the styles we tested. While this is technically considered a slide since it doesn’t have the Y-strap that goes between your toes, it doesn’t have the traditional single strap that goes across your foot and connects to the sole on either side of your foot. Instead, the strap covering your foot has five points where it attaches to the sole and even has a covered toe.
We felt the additional coverage over the toe was helpful when used in areas with more terrain. And, our tester saved herself from many stubbed toes playing in the water as she waded through the Little Missouri River in Arkansas, climbing over rocks and logs.
In true KEEN fashion, these provided great traction and stability on all of our adventures in the water and across various terrain. When walking in and around the pool, the river, and on slick rock surfaces, the Keen Bali Slides didn’t fail us, and we never felt like we were going to fall.
Even though this is a slide, we never felt like we were going to slide out of it because the multi-strap design held our feet in better than other slides. The thick aqua grip rubber of the footbed and outsole gave us even more stability.
While the covered toe area is what saved us from stubbed toes, it did take some getting used to. Even when worn in the water, it never rubbed us to the point of blisters or irritation, but it’s not a feeling we were accustomed to. Our tester’s big toe was covered with a strap and the additional rubber support on the end of the shoe, while her pinky toe was covered by a side strap. Her other toes were free and exposed.
She didn’t notice the strap on her pinky toe, but the light pressure on her big toe was noticeable. It rubbed her big toe in the spot right past where the toenail connected to her toe. It wasn’t painful but was a feeling she never got used to and always felt when wearing these shoes.
Compared to the other flip-flops we tested, this one’s sturdy straps took the longest to dry. However, these performed well in the water, and wet straps didn’t phase us. These shoes were made for water adventures, and we enjoyed the security they provided.
The aqua grip rubber on the Keen Bali Slides makes them a good option for active, water-loving people. They perform great in aquatic situations and terrain and provide the traction that you need. These are the best flip-flops for adventurers looking for performance and a shoe they can easily slide on. These are also a great option if you’re looking for a slide that holds your foot in a little more.
Flip-Flops for Women Comparison Chart
| Women’s Flip-Flops | Price | Sizes | Strap | Number of Colors Available |
|---|---|---|---|---|
OluKai ‘Ohana Flip-Flops | $75 | 5-12 | Traditional Y-strap | 16 |
| Teva Olowahu Flip-Flops | $34 | 5-12 | Y-strap Hybrid | 6 |
| HOKA ORA Recovery Flip | $60 | 5-11 | Traditional Y-strap | 5 |
| Chaco Classic Flip | $65 | 5-12 | Traditional Y-strap | 4 |
| Birkenstock Gizeh Birko Flor | $100 | 4-12 | Y-Strap | 15 |
| Astral Rosa | $79 | 6-11 | Y-strap Hybrid | 3 |
| OOFOS OOahh Slide | $60 | 5-16 | Slide | 8 |
| Reef Cushion Breeze | $40 | 5-12 | Traditional Y-strap | 3 |
| KEEN Bali Slides | $90 | 5-11 | Slide/Hybrid | 3 |
How We Tested Flip-Flops for Women
When looking for the best women’s flip-flops, we considered ten styles that varied in price, style, and function. We know that certain flip-flops perform best in certain situations. So, we tested them to see if they held up to their individual advertised strengths.
We also tested them against a variety of standardized criteria to compare all of them thoroughly. We looked for things such as comfort, fit, arch support, tread, stability, and versatility.
We wore each in a variety of conditions: by (and in) the pool, ocean, springs, and rivers, at the beach, fishing, metal detecting, hunting for seashells, walking for extended lengths of time, out and about doing errands, dancing at concerts, and even trying to escape a rainstorm. We walked on sand, grass, and concrete, and across rocks and boulders. We also tested to see how each performed in and out of the water.
One pair claimed to be machine washable, and we tested that claim. Our tester even set them out in the blazing sun and used an infrared digital thermometer to see which got the hottest. We also discovered which needed break-in time, and we got the blisters so you don’t have to.
Let’s face it — we all love to look cute in our flip-flops, too. We searched for products that worked well when dressed up a bit and looked at the number of color options available for each.
Our primary tester, Brandy Jo Hastings, is a Florida resident who wears flip-flops almost every day of her life. A beach bum, she took these on multiple trips to her favorite Florida beaches: New Smyrna, Siesta Key, Vero, and Ponce Inlet. She also took them out to play in some of Florida’s springs and rivers and tested them around the pool.
We worked to see how each pair stood up to the sun, sand, water, and everyday wear and tear. In addition, the flip-flops traveled with her on trips to St. Croix, USVI, Arkansas, and Tennessee.
Brandy wore these flip-flops for 7 months. In addition to rigorous tests, she rotated them through her daily life to see how each handled for extended periods. Days in each pair gave her a good perspective on the best women’s flip-flops. She left no stone unturned when testing these flip-flops, and she even trekked over many rocks and boulders as a part of her testing.
Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Flip-Flops for Women
The perfect pair of flip-flops is a must for your summer wardrobe. And, for those in warmer climates – an everyday necessity all year long.But, finding the perfect pair can be a little nerve-wracking. With so many options, knowing what to consider when shopping for flip-flops can sometimes be difficult. We’ve narrowed down some of the things we’ve learned to pay attention to over the years.
Footwear Use and Application
Before we start shopping for any shoes, including flip-flops, we like to think about how we’ll be using them. Not all flip-flops serve the same purpose. You may be looking for a go-to pair you can wear daily in the yard or running errands, or ones that you will be using mostly in the water for aquatic adventures, like the Astral Rosa flip-flops.
You may also want a good pair of flip-flops for post-workout recovery like the OOFOS OOahh Slide or HOKA ORA Recovery flips. Or, cute flip-flops to pair with a sundress for a dressier look. Some flip-flops are versatile and perform well in various situations, while others are best for specific uses. First, determine how you will be using your flip-flops. Then, you can see which of the other criteria are most impactful in your final decision.
Comfort
Flip-flops were designed as shoes that are supposed to bring you comfort, so that’s one of the main things we look for when shopping. Nobody wants achy feet, right?
This is a highly personalized factor because different people can have different preferences. Some may prefer a more cushioned sole like that offered by the OOFOS OOahh Slides and OOriginals. Others may like the feel of a firmer footbed like the one offered by the Birkenstock Gizeh Birko-Flor. There’s not a right or wrong answer to this one, but it is important to have an idea of what firmness you like.
You may also want to think about long-term comfort levels when looking for the most comfortable flip-flops. Even a cheap pair of flip flops from a convenience store may feel comfortable for a few minutes, but after walking in them for a while, your feet will know the difference. When you slip your flips on in the morning, you want to make sure they are going to be comfortable enough to wear all day. Many people find that a contoured arch is a comfortable feeling for extended wear.
Break-In Period
Some flip-flops, like the OluKai Ohanas, are perfect right out of the box and don’t require a break-in period. Not all shoes are like that, though, so it’s important to consider the break-in period.
If a shoe needs a little break-in time, it’s not necessarily a bad thing. Some of our favorites come with a break-in period and end up being super comfy. The straps on the Chaco Classic Flip soften up over time, as does the footbed of the Birkenstock Gizeh Birko-Flor. After the initial break-in period, we loved both of these even more each time we wore them.
It’s not a bad idea to assume that any pair of flip-flops will need a break-in period. If possible, try not to wear your new flip-flops for an extended period of time the first couple of times. If you do, think about carrying along a backup pair — just in case.
If you’re buying flip-flops for an upcoming vacation or a certain occasion, try to get them far enough in advance so that you have them broken in ahead of time. You don’t want to be breaking in new shoes on the first day of your island getaway if you don’t have to.
Straps
The straps are one of the most important things to consider when shopping for flip-flops. They can either rub you the wrong way or the right way. This is also the most common area to break on flip-flops of lesser quality.
You’ll want to find straps securely mounted into the footbed. Our flip-flop expert had to do the walk of shame years ago when a strap broke free of the footbed of her shoe. She was stuck out in public barefoot with nothing to hold her foot in and no additional shoes in the car. This shouldn’t happen on a quality pair of flip-flops, though.
Don’t be afraid to pull on the straps to see if they seem securely fastened. Some straps also have an inner lining to provide an additional layer of comfort where the strap meets your foot.
There are two main types of straps: the traditional Y-straps and the slides. Hybrid models of each are also available, and they all serve a purpose.
Y-Strap
Flip-flops with a Y-strap are the most common ones you will see. With these, you have the most factors to consider. These typically have three points where the straps connect to the footbed of your shoe, with attachment points on either side of your foot.
A final toe post strap goes between your big toe and second toe. These three straps hold your foot in place, so it is essential that you make sure these fit well. If so, you’ll find security and comfort like we felt in the Reef Cushion Breeze.
On flip-flops with a Y-strap, it’s also essential to pay attention to the positioning of the toe post. If the widest part of the toe post is curved between your toes, it will usually be comfortable. That area between your toes is a sensitive spot, and trust us – you don’t want blisters there. We found the toe posts on the OluKai ‘Ohana, HOKA ORA Recovery Flip Flops, and the Chaco Classic Flips to be very well made and comfortable.
Sometimes, when the thinnest edge of the toe post rubs between your toes, you may feel a little discomfort. This can be especially true when it is wet. But most shoes made specifically for the water don’t have this design. You’ll also find these types of toe posts irritating if you’re doing a lot of walking.
You may also find different hybrid variations of the Y-strap. These have the strap between your toes and various configurations of other straps. The Teva Olowahu is an example of this. A strap goes between your two toes but then has multiple straps attached to the footbed at six different points. The Astral Rosa is another Y-strap hybrid that also comes with additional straps that go around your foot, allowing you to turn this flip flop into a sandal.
Slides
These flip-flops do exactly what they say they will: They slide on easily. They differ from the Y-strap in that they don’t have a strap between your toes. The strap attaches to the footbed on either side of your foot. With just one strap holding your foot in place, this is usually a really wide strap.
While you always want to make sure your flip-flops are sized appropriately, it’s especially important when picking out slides. Without the additional strap holding your foot down between your toes, you want to make certain that the strap going across your foot is not too loose.
If it is, it could cause you to slide out of the shoe as easily as you slid into it. Slides can sometimes offer a little more room for wider feet, too. The OOFOS OOahh Slide is the best flip-flop for wide feet out of the ones that we tested.
Slides also have different hybrid models as well. One great example is the Keen Bali Slide. This one does not have a Y-strap that goes between your toes. But, unlike a traditional slide with one strap that goes across the top of your foot and has two points where it attaches to the footbed, this hybrid slide has five points where it attaches to the footbed.
Its covered toe area, which provides protection when adventuring through rougher terrain, is unique. This hybrid takes a slide style and adds more top straps to provide a more secure feel for your feet.
Footbed
The footbed and sole are the other important factors that can determine the comfort level of your flip-flops. While there’s a rumor floating around that flip-flops aren’t good for your feet, that’s just not true. According to podiatrists, flip-flops with a proper footbed and sole can be good for your feet.
The American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) recognizes products beneficial to foot health and offers a Seal of Acceptance for them. Some of the flip-flops listed on its website include the HOKA ORA Recovery Flip, OOFOS OOahh Slides, and the Chaco Classic Flip.
When looking at the footbed, pay attention to see if it has any arch support. Flip-flops that have a contour that follows your foot will give you more support and bring more comfort when worn for longer periods of time. The Birkenstock Gizeh Birko-Flor also has a footbed with edges that are turned up, and these hold your feet firmly in place. We love that their footbeds continue to mold to your feet each time you wear them.
Different flip-flops may feel different to different people depending on their feet. Some have more arch support than others, but even a slight arch is going to make your feet happier than a completely flat footbed. Many people also enjoy the massaging feeling of a textured footbed. This also helps to hold your foot in place when your shoes are wet.
Toe Bar
You won’t find this in most flip-flops, but some also include a raised toe bar. This is a raised ridge that sits between your toes and the ball of your foot. The Astral Rosa and Birkenstock Gizeh Birko-Flor are two flip-flops that offer this feature.
Birkenstock says that the raised toe bar encourages the natural gripping motion of your feet, exercises the legs, and stimulates circulation. While those are all great things, this feature can feel different at first and can take some getting used to for some people.
It’s also important to make sure your shoes fit perfectly so the toe bar sits where it should and isn’t positioned incorrectly on your foot. It should fall exactly behind your toes, and your toes and the ball of your foot shouldn’t sit on top of the toe bar.
Outsole
The outer sole may not touch your feet, but it is where the shoe meets your walking surface. And, it’s just as important to your overall comfort. A flip-flop with a grippy textured sole will last longer and be more comfortable. If you’re going to splurge on one feature, this is the one.
A flip flop with a good outsole is not only going to last longer, but it will also keep you safer. Flip-flops with a thin, smooth outer sole are going to wear down quicker. In addition, a thin, smooth sole will offer less stability. One with more traction will prevent you from slipping. While the outsole is always an important factor, it’s especially important to pay attention to this if you’re wearing your flip-flops in and around water.
A properly designed sole can also help relieve tired, aching feet. Many are also designed for post-workout recovery.
HOKA is known for the Meta-Rocker (geometry that reduces the height differential between heel and toe to mimic natural gait) in the soles of its athletic shoes, and you’ll find that same unique feature in its HOKA Ora Recovery Flip. These ended up being the most comfortable of the ones we tested. OOFOS is another known for its well-designed soles made from its custom OOfoam.
Materials
The materials your flip-flops are constructed from can affect your comfort and traction. Different flip-flops are best for different purposes, and the materials used are the main factor that helps define their purpose. You’ll want to pay attention to the materials used in all parts of the shoe — the straps, toe posts, footbeds, and outsole.
Many flip-flops use EVA — ethylene vinyl acetate — and rubber in their constructions. The HOKA ORA Recovery Flip has a soft top layer of EVA that contributes to its comfort level.
While the Teva Olowahu also uses EVA in its outsole to accommodate those looking for a lighter option, many also use rubber, which provides a good tread for adventure seekers.
The Reef Cushion Breeze has a rubber sponge outsole that is slightly more flexible than other options, like the Aquagrip rubber used in the KEEN Bali Slides, which offers better traction for aquatic activities.
Astral and Chaco have both trademarked the rubber compounds used in their outsoles, which allow these shoes to have exceptional grip.
If rubber and EVA are involved, you’ll usually find these more water-friendly than other options, like the Birkenstock Gizeh Birko-Flor, which has a footbed made of cork latex with a suede lining. These are stylish and comfortable but aren’t made for the water.
OOFOS uses its proprietary OOfoam in its OOahh Slide and OOFOS Original flip-flops. Both shoes are made entirely of OOfoam, which was explicitly like the Birks; these aren’t made for the water.
The material of the straps is just as important when picking out flip-flops. The soft fabric will feel better, but know that some fabrics made from stiffer fabric often soften up over time. You may also find leather straps or leather ones with soft lining. We love the jersey knit lining inside the water-friendly synthetic straps of the OluKai ‘Ohana.
The toe posts may not be the most visible area on the shoe, but they are still worth paying attention to. You’ll sometimes find a toe post made from other materials, like plastic, but they may not be as comfy for long-term wear.
Sizing
We love flip-flops immensely. But, one of the most frustrating things for us all is being able to choose the correct size. Unfortunately, most don’t come in half sizes. So, shopping for flip-flops puts you in an endless internal battle over sizing up or sizing down. While each brand is a little different, we always recommend sizing up half a size when in doubt. Most of the time, this is going to be the right fit.
When shopping for flip-flops, it’s important to find the proper length for your foot. Having a flip-flop that is even a bit too short is super aggravating. We don’t like the feeling of our toes or heels hanging off — it is uncomfortable and just doesn’t look nice. Our flip-flop expert’s true shoe size is a half size. And, after many years, she’s realized that if a half-size is unavailable, she needs to size up.
Style
We enjoy having a flip-flop that is versatile and can be used for multiple purposes. This includes the ability to dress it up or down. While many versatile options have a sportier look, some are sleek enough to dress up.
Our best overall flip-flops for women are the OluKai ‘Ohana. One reason is the versatility that it has for fashion. It’s not dressy or fancy, but it looks nice while still performing well. The Chaco Classic Flip is another one we love that spans both function and fashion.
If you’re looking for one go-to flip-flop, basic colors like black, brown, tan, or white can be great options that will match a variety of outfits. We’ve found that when we find a style we like though, we sometimes have gone back to get more of the same shoe in different colors.
Finding a flip-flop that has a variety of color options to choose from is a perk too. Again, the OluKai ‘Ohana excelled in this area with 14 colors available. The Birkenstock Gizeh Birko-Flor also gave us a large color palette, having 15 different options.
Some flip-flops are geared a little more toward fashion than function, though, and that’s OK. While flip-flops may be most commonly associated with the beach, there are so many styles available now that in some areas you can also find people wearing flip-flops to work or even in formal situations like weddings.
Our flip-flop expert paired the Teva Olowahu with a beachy dress for an island wedding, and they were perfect. She was also able to pull off the Birkenstock Gizeh Birko-Flor as business casual shoes for a work conference.
Water-Friendliness
Flip-flops are popular to wear to the beach, at the lake or river, or around the pool. Even if you aren’t wearing them in the water, if you’re wearing them near the water, you’ll want to consider how water-friendly they are. Being made of water-resistant materials is one factor, but we consider a couple of other things, too.
Look at the traction on the soles and footbeds to see how much stability you have where your foot meets the shoe and where the shoe meets the earth. A shoe with good tread on the sole will help keep you upright and you’ll be less likely to slip on a slick rock as you are walking along the shoreline.
A flip-flop that also has a textured footbed performs exceptionally well when wet and helps keep your foot from sliding around. Two of the ones we tested that had soles and footbeds that stood up to the waves well were the KEEN Bali Slides and the Chaco Classic Flip.
A couple of other things we look for dry time and the dreaded foot squeak. The footbed will usually dry quicker than the straps, but we found the straps on the Chacos and OluKai ‘Ohana dried really quickly.
Another annoying thing that you may find is that even with water-resistant flip-flops, sometimes you’ll have a little squeak when you walk in them while wet. It’s frustrating, but it doesn’t last forever.
This is another area where the Chaco Classic Flip took the prize, though, because the textured firm footbed didn’t cause any strange noises when we stepped off the water and walked on dry land.
Sustainability
As we try to find ways to be more sustainable in our everyday lives, it’s nice to know we can also take those best practices into our shoe shopping. Many companies have found ways to use recycled materials, and it feels good when you find brands that are doing things to help our planet.
Some brands like Reef now have entire sections on their website where you can search for shoes made with recycled materials. You can find a wide variety of styles that have used recycled materials in some part of the process. One example is the Reef Cushion Breeze — the lining and toe post are made from recycled plastic bottles.
Another earth-friendly flip-flop we love is Teva’s Olowahu. It has a midsole that is made from 30% recycled EVA. The webbing on the straps is also made from recycled plastic that uses traceable REPREVE polyester yarn by Unifi.
Price
In our years of wearing flip-flops, we’ve learned that a good pair can last a long time. They also tend to be much more comfortable than super cheap ones, providing a better overall experience. Because of these things, we don’t always buy flip-flops for a cheap price alone.
Paying a little more can sometimes get you a quality pair of shoes that will last for years and in the end, will be cheaper overall since you won’t have to replace them constantly. However, we love a good deal, and finding a good quality pair at a great price is always a good thing, too.
If you’re on a budget, but looking for a quality pair of flip-flops, know that they do exist. Our tester has worn the Reef brand for years, and the Reef Cushion Breeze is a great pick. In comparison to the most expensive flip-flop we tested, this one costs more than 50% less and serves the purpose as an overall, everyday flip-flop.
Style doesn’t have to come at a price, either. Of all of the ones we tested, the ones that we thought were the cutest flip-flops were actually the lowest price of all of them. The Teva Olowahu is a fashionable choice and it looks like it costs more than $34.
Anti-Odor
OK, so foot odor isn’t something you enjoy thinking about until you throw your shoes out because you can’t eliminate the smell that has taken root in them over time. Or until you’re the one at the pool party with the stinky feet. Nobody wants to be that girl.
With flip-flops being toe-freeing shoes that expose your feet, any flip-flop options that put forth efforts to eliminate radiating foot odor are a good thing. Not all flip-flops offer this additional perk, but we’re seeing that some are starting to incorporate this amenity. The KEEN Bali Slides contain Eco Anti-Odor that promises natural, pesticide-free odor control, and the Teva Olowahu flip flops are treated with Life Natural, a peppermint-based anti-odor treatment.
Packability
Flip-flops are a must-have for any warm-weather vacation spot you will be visiting, and you’ll want to bring along at least a couple of pairs on your getaways. We personally like wearing them to the airport since they are so easy to slip on and off when going through TSA. There’s always more in our bag, so we are prepared for any situation.
We love looking for styles that don’t take up too much room in our suitcase and are easy to throw in the beach bag. The Reef Cushion Breeze and OluKai ‘Ohana are thinner styles that are easy to carry along.
The Chaco Classic and Teva Olowahu are other great ones that we like to have in our suitcases. These two combine fashion and function and are perfect for pairing with a little sundress for happy hour after your day in the sun.
When you have limited room in your suitcase, you may also want to put consideration into finding a versatile flip flop that can have multiple uses. The Astral Rosa can be worn as a traditional flip-flop, but also comes with an additional strap that converts them into sandals. In this instance, it’s kind of like packing two pairs of shoes, but they only take up the space of one.
Return Policy
Our hope is that we have geared you up with enough great info that you will choose the best flip-flops for your needs. Sometimes you think about all of the variables, do your research, and then they still arrive damaged or with a manufacturer’s defect.
They may also arrive, and you then realize you need a different size or see that you just don’t love them. It can be helpful to take the return policy into consideration just in case-especially if you are buying them online before trying them on.
You’ll find that many quality flip-flops have pretty good return and exchange policies that allow you to try them out. For example, if the size is a little off or you want a different color, you can exchange your OluKai ‘Ohanas for free exchanges for 30 days.
If you want to give the OOFOS OOahh Slide a shot, you can try them for 30 days and if you don’t love them, you can send them back at no cost. HOKA, who brought us our most comfortable flip-flop on the list, the ORA Recovery Flip, also offers free returns and exchanges within 30 days with no questions asked. The return/exchange policy is even better for HOKA members who get 60 days to try them out, and it’s totally free to become a HOKA member so you can get that privilege.
FAQ
Many flip-flops don’t come in half sizes, and knowing which way to go when ordering shoes can be difficult. We always recommend sizing up if you normally fall in between a half-size. This will prevent your toes and heels from hanging over the edges.
Flip-flops with a comfortable footbed with a contour that fits your foot and tread that gives you security where your shoe meets the ground are the best for walking.
You’ll also want to consider the straps’ comfort to ensure they aren’t rubbing your feet as you walk. Our testing found that the HOKA ORA Recovery Flip was the most comfortable flip-flop when walking. HOKA is known for the Meta-Rocker in the soles of its athletic shoes, and you’ll find that same unique feature in its flip-flops. The OluKai ‘Ohana was also very comfortable for walking extended distances.
Many flip-flops can be dressed up and paired with a dress. Our best budget flip-flops for women are the Teva Olowahu flip-flops, which have a cute strappy design that can be paired nicely with a sundress. The Chaco Classic Flip is another great option with a sleek design that can be dressed up. It was named our Best Beach-to-Brunch Flip-flop.
The American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) recognizes products that have been found beneficial to foot health and offers a Seal of Acceptance for them. Some of the flip-flops listed on their website include the HOKA ORA Recovery Flip, OOFOS Ooriginal, OOFOS OOahh, and Chaco Classic Flip.
Slides differ from traditional flip-flops because they omit a Y-strap that goes between your toes. The OOFOS OOahh Slide is a good example of a standard slide that has a wide strap that attaches to either side of the footbed.
Some slides vary in style, though, such as the KEEN Bali Slides, which have straps that attach at five different points of the footbed and cover your big toe. However, these are still considered slides since there is no Y-strap between your toes.
Flip-flops are an excellent option for the beach. They are easy to slip on and off if you want to feel the sand between your toes. These are great items to pack for your trip to the beach. Some perform better in aquatic and terrain situations you may encounter on the beach. Double-check to make sure your flip-flops are water-friendly before jumping in the ocean, though.
The best type of flip-flop depends on how you will be using it. While the OluKai ‘Ohana ranked as our best overall women’s flip-flop, some of the other best flips flops included: Reef Cushion Breeze, HOKA ORA Recovery Flip-flops, KEEN Bali Slides, Teva Olowahu Flip-flops, Chaco Classic Flip, Birkenstock Gizeh Birko-Flor, Astral Rosa, and and OOFOS OOahh Slides.
