Flip flops can be comfortable to wear in the summer months, especially when heading to the beach. Unfortunately, they can be prone to slipping off while you wear them, which can be hazardous. So how do you keep flip-flops from slipping off? We have researched the answer to this question, and in this post, we will share it with you.
There are quite a few different ways that you can keep your flip-flops from slipping off. The easiest method is to install a liner in the shoe to create a bit of friction. You can also use insoles, double-sided tape, and metatarsal pads to help hold the shoes in place. Lastly, you can buy higher-quality flip-flops made of leather or have foot and toe indentations instead of a completely flat insole.
If you wear flip-flops often, you may have experienced them slipping off at some point. You'll be happy to know that there are inexpensive methods that you can use to prevent this, all while keeping your flip-flops fitting comfortably. Continue reading to learn more about them.
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Methods to Keep your Flip Flops from Slipping Off
Rubber Liners
This may not be something that you may typically think of, but the rubber liners used for drawers can be great for creating a bit of friction in flip-flops. These non-slip liners are usually made of rubber, and you can easily fit them into your shoe by cutting them with a pair of scissors. You can then tape them using super glue or a small amount of Gorilla Glue. When buying the liners, look for the thinnest liner possible so that it won't cause your feet to rub against the top of the flip flop--which can lead to blisters and sores.
Heel Grips
You can also use heel grips to prevent your feet from slipping backward in your flip-flops. These adhesive pads work to keep your heel from slipping away from the shoe. Heel grips work pretty well in high heels, but they can also work pretty well in flip-flops as well to prevent foot sliding. The only difference is that you'll place these adhesive grips on the bottom of the shoe near the ball of your foot instead of the heel section.
Keep in mind that you'll want to be strategic about placing them on the flip flop to avoid discomfort. When looking for heel grips, try to fin the thinnest ones possible to line your flip-flops without causing discomfort at the top of your foot.
Holding Spray
So this method is more of a quick temporary fix than a permanent solution, but it's worth mentioning. You can use a bit of holding spray on your flip-flop if you need an on-the-spot fix for your sliding feet. Spray the top of the flip-flop with a light coating of holding spray and go about your day. However, you may want to remove the holding spray using a bit of soap and water so that your flip-flops aren't sticky forever.
Check out this holding spray on Amazon.
Double-sided tape
Another temporary fix to consider is double-sided tape. Celebrities and entertainers often use double-sided tape for wardrobes, shoes, and accessories. The reason is that this tape is very versatile and has great hold.
If you have a new pair of flip-flops that seem to be slipping off often, consider adding double-sided tape to the bottom of the flip flop on the ball or heel of the shoe. The great thing is that the tape doesn't leave any residue behind, and you can replace it as often as you need to. It's also fairly inexpensive to purchase and can be bought online or at most department stores.
Read more about the double-sided tape on Amazon.
Metatarsal pads
You may often hear these pads referred to as "shoe bumps," and they are one of the most popular products that you can use to prevent flip-flops and fall off. Their main purpose is to provide comfort to the ball of your foot while wearing any type of shoe--especially high heels.
Shoe bumps are typically made of resin or foam and are inserted in the shoe beneath the toe and ball area. Not only will they keep your feet from sliding, but they can relieve discomfort if you have metatarsalgia (ball of foot pain).
Read more details about metatarsal pads on Amazon.
Shoe insoles
You'll usually find podiatrists recommending shoe insoles for women who wear high heels. However, they can be just as comforting when worn in flip-flops. These non-slip insoles prevent your feet from slipping and if they can also get rid of any burning sensation that you may feel from wearing your flip-flops too long. You'll likely need to cut them and use glue to keep them in place, however.
This is especially helpful if you suffer from calluses or blisters from wearing flip-flops for several days at a time. A good pair of insoles will add a bit of traction and impact absorbency to your flip-flops, and you can take a pair of scissors to trim them for a perfect fit.
Learn more about shoe insoles on Amazon.
Check the fit
Last but not least, the fit of your flip-flops can make the world a difference in how well the shoe stays on. Frequently, flip-flops will come in generic sizes, such as small, medium, and large, to fit all types of feet. However, if you can find flip-flops for your specific shoe size (example: Women's 8.5), the chances are that the flip-flop will have a better grip and a better fit overall.
Check out these rainbow flip-flops on Amazon.
Why do flip flops fall off?
More often than not, flip flops fall off because of their flat and smooth surface. And if you're wearing expensive flip-flops, the material of the flip-flops can often wear down, causing them to be more challenging to walk in. Lastly, flip flops do not have a heel that covers the back of the foot, making it easier for them to slide off if you don't have a good grip between your big toe and middle toe.
How do you keep flip flops from falling off?
The best ways to keep flip flops from falling off include inserting non-slip accessories into the shoe, including insoles, double-sided tape, metatarsal pads, amongst the other items. You can also purchase higher-quality flip-flops that are made of leather or have indentations to provide your toes with more grip while walking.
Keep in mind that these flip-flops will typically be a bit more expensive than your everyday beach flip flop.
Why can't some people wear flip flops?
Some people can't wear flip-flops because of certain posture, balance, or other physical issues. Some of the biggest problems being plantar fasciitis and flat feet. The flat surface of a flip-flop doesn't support a healthy posture. And if you already have issues with posture, specifically your back, knees, or hips, flip flops can worsen this.
Plantar fasciitis can be exacerbated when wearing flip-flops as there isn't enough support for the bottom of the foot. While people with flat feet typically prefer to wear shoes with arch support to prevent foot pain, this design doesn't come standard in most flip-flops.
Also, some people are more prone to foot blisters than others. Flip flops, particularly thong-toed flip-flops, are known to cause foot blisters between your toes; this can make them incredibly difficult to walk in.
Is it bad to wear flip flops all the time?
Pretty much. If you ask any podiatrist this question, they will likely tell you that it's not recommended to wear flip-flops all the time—the main reason being that flip-flops don't support your posture or healthy foot planting when you walk. Flip-flops also can be dangerous to wear in certain outdoor conditions and environments, as your foot can be exposed to potential cuts and abrasions.
For example, if you are walking near a construction site or other outdoor area, you can accidentally step on a nail, which can penetrate the thin sole of a flip-flop hurt your foot. Flip-flops can also cause ankle sprains in certain scenarios, particularly if you try to run in them or climb stairs too briskly. You can also hurt your foot if you're wearing flip-flops while driving, believe it or not--especially the heel of your foot and even your ankle.
Wrapping Things Up
As you can see, there are quite a few methods that you can use to prevent your flip-flops from falling off. The majority of these methods are relatively inexpensive and can be quickly implemented. Overall, you'll find that the best approach is to insert a non-slip surface inside a shoe to help create some traction for your foot.
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