In most developing countries, sponge flip-flops
are the cheapest footwear available – especially
the thin EVA die-cut sole variety with two
simple straps running in a Y from both sides of
the forepart to join between the first and second
rays. To reduce cost, Flip-Flops are even made
from recycled tires – typically costing less than
$1 at retail. Another common form of ‘upper’
treatment on the flip-flop is a simple strap
across the forepart.
In more developed countries the flip-flop has
evolved from typically disposable seasonal
footwear into a fashion statement. Flip-flops can
now be found in expensive shoe stores decorated
with jewelry, rhinestones or embroided designs.
It appears that the flip-flop has crossed over
from casual pool attire to dress wear.
MO RE FLOP THAN FLIP?
Typically, flip-flops have a soft spongy flat
footbed, so when the foot strikes the ground
there is no support or control during the
pronation phase of gait. An unsupported arch
during pronation tends to invert and flatten
– leading to overpronation, which causes
excessive internal rotation of the lower leg.
Hence problems such as tendinitis, medial knee
pain, hip pain and lower back pain. Continual
overpronation of the foot also results in flat
feet, especially if flip-flops are worn throughout
childhood and adolescence when the muscles,
bones and tendons of the feet are growing and
underdeveloped. Due to the open nature of
flip-flops, the wearer is more susceptible to
stubbed toes, nail damage and overexposure to
the environment. Some underfoot protection
is afforded by the flip-flop from the dirt and
heat but little else. On the thong model, the Y
shaped straps between the first and second toes
help to prevent the foot from sliding forward.
The wrap-around strap design offers some
medial and lateral control in the forepart but
as the strap loosens and stretches out it will not
prevent the foot from slipping forward inside
the shoe. This can cause excessive friction and
soreness on the plantar surface of the foot.
Both Y Thong and Forepart Strap uppers tend
to break or stretch more easily than regular
sandals. Another common complaint leveled
against the flip-flop is overexposure to the
elements allowing too much sun and air to the
feet, which can cause the feet to dry out and
crack especially around the heels.
While this is true of the common inexpensive
flip-flop, this footwear style has evolved and
there are a number of models on the market
"In more developed countries the flip-flop has evolved
from typically disposable seasonal footwear into a
fashion statement."
Current Pedorthics | July/August 2018
19