The 7 Best Flip Flops of 2025

Best Flip Flops for Men

Olukai Ohana

We love the Olukai Ohana. This shoe is super comfortable, durable, and is among the most impressive flip flops we've ever put to the test. Instead of wearing down over time, the Ohana molds itself to your feet, ensuring continued performance and the utmost comfort.

Sole Material	Rubber
Footbed Material	ICEVA
Strap Material	Synthetic
Measured Weight (per pair) i	18.7 oz
Available Sizes	7 - 18 US

These sandals maintain superb stability and support thanks to their arch supports and contoured footbed. With traction that'll tackle anything from pool decks to river crossings, it's hard to go wrong with the Ohanas. “The rugged design, durable materials, and good looks did everything I asked of them — and aged with grace,” our tester bragged. They're stylish and come in a wide selection of colors and patterns.

These shoes are hefty and durable, though this comes with its downsides. Since they're somewhat heavy, they might not be the most ideal when packing for travel. Moreover, the Ohanas are pricey. If you just don't have the cash to shell out for a premium flip flop, check out the NeedBo NDB, though they're nowhere near as durable or comfortable as the Ohana. However, if you can swing the cost, the Ohanas are unquestionably worth the investment for their exceptional blend of comfort, support, and traction.

Read more: Olukai Ohana review

Best Flip Flops for Women

Birkenstock Gizeh

When it comes to comfort, it's hard to beat the Birkenstock Gizeh. Over time, its unique cork-based moldable footbed breaks in to create an exact imprint of your foot, leading to a more natural fit. The rounded heel cup promotes stability by gently wrapping around the foot base and preventing slippage during the heel strike, and the strap buckle can be adjusted to achieve your perfect fit. “I ended up loving these for long days on my feet, whether running errands around town or walking the dog,” our lead tester said. We love that they can be dressed up or down and provide the stylish versatility many flip flops struggle to achieve.

Sole Material	EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate)
Footbed Material	Cork lined with suede
Strap Material	Birko-flor (PVC) lined with fleece
Measured Weight (per pair) i	13.5 oz
Available Sizes	7 - 12.5 US

The Gizeh requires a more extended break-in period compared to most others. This is due to its cork-based sole, which simply needs a few days of wear to create the customized fit. Until then, they might feel stiff. As one tester said, “While the break-in period can be a bit rough, if you stick with it, you will be rewarded.”

This sandal is also among the priciest in our lineup. However, they are worth the investment and time, as they will provide years of unbeatable comfort. If you like this style but want it in a more affordable and waterproof package, take a look at the Birkenstock Gizeh Essentials EVA, which is around half the price.

Read more: Birkenstock Gizeh review

Best Lightweight for Men

Teva Reflip

The Teva Reflip is a fairly simple sandal with a lightweight build made from recycled materials. The shoe is comfortable with a foot-molding cushioned footbed and nylon straps. Dry or wet, these sandals held up and didn't cause any hot spots. The footbed is made from a mixture of recycled materials and EVA, which is water-resistant and buoyant. When wet, they don't absorb any water, allowing them to stay ultralight and dry quickly. They are available in a large selection of colors and fun patterns, making them versatile enough for a beach day or a stroll around town.

Sole Material	EVA
Footbed Material	EVA
Strap Material	REPREVE recycled polyester
Measured Weight (per pair) i	9.7 oz
Available Sizes	7 - 14 US

The Reflips miss the mark when it comes to traction. “The traction isn't terrible, but I felt a bit unstable on slippery slopes,” our tester remarked. Likewise, they don't have much of an arch or any support. However, these affordable shoes will get you where you need to go without compromising comfort. Thanks to their lightweight build, these are a great option to pack away in your backpack or luggage. Those on an ultra-tight budget should take a look at the NeedBo NDB, which scored surprisingly well in our men's flip flops review despite their bargain price tag.

Best Lightweight for Women

Sanuk Yoga Mat

The Sanuk Yoga Mat is easy to slip on and get moving. Right out of the box, these sandals feel like a cushiony pillow for your feet. Hence the name, the Yoga Mat flip flop is constructed with a material similar to a yoga mat, which is responsible for the comfy underfoot feel. The thick faux leather straps are lined with polyester, which doesn't cause hot spots when wet. “Even when the footbed got wet, my foot stayed put. I was very surprised, since most shoes that lack contour also lack footbed traction,” our head tester noted.

These simple flip flops are available in a large selection of colors and can easily be dressed up or down. They are lightweight, so packing these for a through-hike will be no trouble.

Sole Material	Rubber
Footbed Material	EVA
Strap Material	95% synthetic/5% polyester
Measured Weight (per pair) i	5.0 oz
Available Sizes	5 - 11 US

The outsoles offer some traction, but not the best. “These aren't my first choice for rocky trails, but I loved them for light-duty gardening tasks and casual around-town wear,” our head tester shared. If you want a flip with better traction, look to the OluKai Ohana.

The Sanuk Yoga Mat shoe isn't the most durable and tends to retain water. However, the price is hard to beat for such a stylish, lightweight pair of flip flops. Another comfortable, affordable pair worth checking out is the Cushionaire Luna Cork Footbed.

Read more: Sanuk Yoga Mat review

Most Comfortable for Men

Birkenstock Arizona Soft Footbed

The Birkenstock Arizona Soft Footbed is one of the most recognized sandals out there, and it is as comfortable as it is fashionable. The Arizona is a longtime staple in Birkenstock's lineup, and this version has a cushier footbed than the original, lending it a soft feel right out of the box. With moldable leather and cork in the footbed, this option will give you a custom fit and feel after just a few days of use.

While many open-toed shoes lack arch support, these support all three arches in your foot, making them an excellent option for long days and for those needing the best model for foot health. Though not technically a flip flop, this slide-in belongs in your shopping cart if you demand the best in comfort from your sandals.

Sole Material	EVA outsole, cork midsole
Footbed Material	Leather
Strap Material	Suede
Measured Weight (per pair) i	20.1 oz
Available Sizes	6 - 17.5 US

The Birkenstock Arizona is several times more expensive than some options. Luckily, with the high price tag, you get quality construction, durability, and dependability, and we expect these will last you a long time if properly cared for. If you are on a tighter budget, the Cushionaire Lane Cork Footbed is nearly a third of the cost, and though it looks similar to the Arizona, it's not quite as comfy or as durable.

You probably won't want to get the Arizona wet, so if you need a shoe for the river, beach, or lake, check out the Teva Reflip or the Teva Hydratrek Flip. Even with a few setbacks, the Birkenstock Arizona is a phenomenal option for comfort and rightfully belongs at the top of your list if it's in your budget.

Most Comfortable for Women

OOFOS OOriginal - Women's

The OOFOS OOriginal is hands down the most comfortable flip flop our testers have ever put on their feet. It's considered a “recovery shoe,” and we could not agree with that claim more. “After a long run, a big workout, or an intense day in the mountains, I immediately wanted to slip into these flip flops when I got back to the car,” our head tester, Brooke Hess, remarked. “Wearing these feels like walking on a cloud.”

Sole Material	OOfoam
Footbed Material	OOfoam Recovery Technology
Strap Material	OOfoam
Measured Weight (per pair) i	5.0 oz
Available Sizes	5 - 16 US

The OOFOS OOriginal wins the comfort category by a long shot, but it falls a little short on style. The thickness of the footbed and the straps look like what they are meant for — comfort. Just as you wouldn't wear sweatpants for a dinner date, you probably won't be selecting your Oofos for that occasion. Because of that, these sandals are a bit less versatile than some of the others we tried. If you want something that is both comfortable and stylish, the Sanuk Yoga Mat would be a good option.

Best Arch Support for Women

OluKai Ohana - Women's

With their foot-shaped build and contoured footbed, the OluKai Ohana offers exceptional comfort and support. However, the Ohana truly shines in its ability to handle water. Hopping over slick river crossings is no trouble for the Ohana with its grooved soft rubber outsole. Likewise, its synthetic neoprene-like straps dry fairly quickly, and the grippy footbed will keep you in place. From working in the garden to simply seeking relaxation by the pool, the OluKai Ohana is the ideal companion.

Sole Material	Non-marking rubber or gum rubber
Footbed Material	Molded EVA with soft ICEVA drop-in footbed
Strap Material	Water-resistant synthetic nubuck leather lined with quick-drying jersey knit
Measured Weight (per pair) i	13.7 oz
Available Sizes	5 - 12 US

They run a bit wide with a natural toe-box shape. “I have a narrow foot, and I had to size down to get the right fit,” our head tester noted. These flip flops are undoubtedly pricey, but we think they are worth the investment for the excellent comfort and construction. You'll be sure to gain some action-packed years with these sandals, as they are durable and stable enough to handle rocky terrains. Fans of the Chaco brand might be interested in the Chaco Classic Flip as an alternative, though the footbed is firmer and not nearly as cushy.

Read more: OluKai Ohana review

How We Test Flip Flops

Each year, we dedicate ourselves to extensively searching the market for the best flip flops. After our in-depth search, we order the most promising for rigorous side-by-side testing. We leave no stone unturned as we take these shoes on a diverse array of terrain, including beaches, pool decks, river walks, town squares, and more. Our hands-on testing allows us to thoroughly engage with each product, learning the ins and outs while focusing on key performance aspects. This comprehensive review highlights some of our favorite flip flops that we've found over the years.

We judge our flip flop testing on five rating metrics:

• Comfort

• Support

• Traction

• Versatility

• Style

Why Trust GearLab

Teaming up to bring you the best evaluation of women's and men's open-toe footwear are Zach Lovell, Brooke Hess, Jon Oleson, and Hayley Thomas.

Zach is an IFMGA Mountain guide who craves flip flops and sandals as a respite from the long hours in climbing shoes, hiking boots, or ski boots. If he had to guess, he would say he has spent a third of his life in flip flops or sandals. He's also spent over a decade in product testing and has a keen eye for detail across many categories, including flip flops.

As a Clinical Herbalist, Jon spends lots of time in his garden. A solid pair of flip-flops is his go-to shoe choice when spending hours out planting, propagating, and harvesting. Among many other things, Jon makes trips to the river and frequents the trails, where he prefers to stay in the same pair of open-toed shoes.

Leading our women's flip flops tests is Brooke Hess. Brooke is a professional whitewater kayaker who spends a silly amount of time roaming rivers around the world in flip flops. She used to compete for the US Freestyle Kayak Team, but these days, she prefers long wilderness expeditions with good friends. When not on a river, Brooke can be found at climbing crags, on a skin track, or at her computer working on river conservation projects. Her feet are always in and out of wet kayaks, climbing shoes, and ski boots, making her an ideal flip flop tester needing some high-quality foot respite. She also brings to this job a master's degree in science journalism, which allows her to bring a scientific approach to her testing plan.

Hayley is an outdoor enthusiast, finding solace in camping, rock climbing, and yoga. She is building out her sprinter and transitioning to van life, where downsizing to just the essentials is vital. In the spirit of efficiency, Hayley needs her footwear to hold up through a variety of activities with style and comfort. From spontaneous day hikes to city strolls and beach days, these flip flops have done it all.

How to Pick the Best Flip Flops for You

Open-toed, airy flip-flops are one of the most exciting parts of summer. Slip them on and get moving, or fling them off to feel the earth between your toes. Choosing the right pair goes beyond what meets the eye. These shoes are made from all sorts of footbeds, which can make or break the comfort and durability experience. Moreover, different shoes will excel at various activities depending on their build and traction.

Types of Footbed

In the world of shoes, flip flops may seem like a piece of rubber with a couple of straps. However, it goes much further than that, with a specifically important part being the shoe footbed. The footbed is the actual piece that your foot rests on. Many materials are used to create this underfoot piece, though they can be categorized as light foam, foot molding, contoured, and novelty.

Light Foam Footbed

Light foam beds are undeniably cheap and cushiony right off the shelf. You might find these sandals as a quick solution when you get to the hotel and realize you forgot yours back home. Though they are lightweight and inexpensive, they have minimal to no support, stability, or traction. They are less durable and tend to fall apart within just a couple of months. That being said, avid wearers could quickly go through enough pairs to equal the price of a nicer, more durable pair. Though they make decent locker room shower shoes, we recommend shelling out the extra cash for a more comfortable and reliable pair.

Foot-Molding Footbed

Similar to a memory foam mattress, foot-molding footbeds keep the shape of the foot over time. These models are made from EVA or other foam/rubber compounds. They land right in the middle for durability, being far tougher than light foam footbeds but not quite meeting the rigidity of contoured styles. Right out of the box, they are comfortable and cushiony. Over time, the footbed becomes an exact mold of your foot, extending the comfort level. This type of flip flop tends to be on the less expensive side. However, foot-molding footbeds often don't have the best support and lack the structural rigidity needed for stability. With that in mind, these aren't going to be the top choice for long days on your feet. Nor would you want to take these on rocky trails. However, they usually get the job done, especially for casual wearers.

Contoured Footbed

If we were to recommend just one footbed style, it would be contoured. These footbeds are carefully crafted to mimic the natural shape of the foot. The contoured design helps promote proper alignment and stability, reducing the risk of foot fatigue and discomfort. By offering targeted arch support and heel cups, these footbeds alleviate strain and provide a cushioned base for the entire foot. The first time you slip them on, you'll be met with comfort, which only gets better over time as they break in. Contoured footbeds tend to be the most versatile. They are stable enough to take on trails and sandy beaches, yet supportive enough to wear on a long stroll through town. Usually, they are the most expensive options, but with their long-lasting, durable build, they'll be worth the investment.

Novelty Footbed

Novelty footbeds can be described by their unique shape or material. They often fall as a hybrid between light foam and foot molding footbeds. That being said, they will be comfortable from the moment you first slip them on. However, they often lack the structural support for long days out. They aren't the most durable option and may need to be replaced several times over the years. However, novelty footbeds have a time and place. Because they are so inexpensive and comfortable for light use, this is a great option for casual wearers. Headed to the coffee shop or need a house shoe? Novely footbed flip flops can certainly handle that.

Consider Your Activity

Different activities call for varying levels of comfort, support, and durability. If you plan to wear your flip flops on a river run, you may prioritize a water-resistant option with exceptional traction. Those embarking on a hike will need a flip flop with excellent stability and durability. Casual users won't need to prioritize those features, but comfort will be key. By considering the activities you plan to engage in, you can make a better-informed choice and choose a flip flop that meets your specific needs.

Water Activities

There is no doubt that flip flops are handy shoes for water activities. However, some have permeable footbeds, which can hold water for long periods of time. This not only makes the shoe heavy but can lead to the growth of mold and bacteria. If you plan on spending time by the pool, beach, or river, we recommend finding an option that is water-resistant or quick-drying. This recommendation is extended to those who use locker room showers where bacteria is prevalent. To know if your flip flops hold water, simply submerge them and take a few steps. If water starts getting squished out, they aren't water resistant.

Certain options have better traction when wet, both outsole and footbed. Some have specially designed underfoot soles that grip the foot when wet. This helps keep the foot in place and prevents the shoe from sliding off. The outsole is just as important here. A grippy shoe prevents slipping off wet rocks and pool decks. Many of these flip flops have strap liners that also grip the feet when wet, cutting back on blisters and hotspots. Not only that, but these water-resistant options often float, so you won't need to worry about losing it forever in the event that it slips off. If you plan on spending any amount of time by the water, we recommend finding flip flops that can handle the water and dry quickly. Your feet will thank you for it.

Trail Use

If you plan on spending time on the trails in flip flops, traction and stability should be at the top of your list. You'll want a shoe with tread that more closely resembles a hiking boot. Since you won't have all-over coverage and shoe laces keeping you in place, it's important to find a flip flop with additional traction in its footbed and straps. That way, the shoe doesn't budge as you're hopping over rocks or ascending a steep slope. Stability is also going to be key here. A more stable shoe will hold your foot in place and prevent ankle rolls. Pro tip: flip flops that bend easily are going to be less stable than the rigid options. Those with heel cups will also be more stable as this cup is designed to hold the heel in place step after step. Lastly, you might consider the shoe's packability depending on your goals. If you're hunting for a shoe to slip in your thru-hiking pack or clip on your climbing harness, you'll want something with a sleek and lightweight build.

Casual Use

Those searching for a flip flop to wear around town or to get coffee won't need to worry too much about traction or water resistance. Instead, overall comfort is a top priority. It might be tempting to reach for those soft-foam flip flops you found for just a few bucks, but if you plan on being upright on your feet for any considerable amount of time, choosing a pair that supports your entire foot will lead to far greater satisfaction. Style is another aspect to consider for casual use. Many flip flops are available in multiple colors and patterns, so be sure to check out all the options for the specific model that interests you.

Fit

Walking around in flip flops should be fairly effortless, without the need to grasp the shoe mid-step. Most flip flop straps are thong-style, with a piece of fabric connecting to the footbed between the first two toes. Thong-style shoes are typically the most secure; however, the tightness of the straps will significantly impact this. They should have a secure hold on your foot without being too tight or loose. Looser straps will allow for more wiggle room and can impact the arch and heel cup location at the foot strike. Likewise, tight straps can have the same problem as they don't allow the foot to extend completely into the toe box. Properly fitted straps will keep your foot aligned with the arch, toe box, and heel cup throughout the entirety of the step. Some flip flops have adjustable straps that get around this problem. Though adjusting the strap isn't essential for a proper fit, these options ensure you'll get the right fit the first time.

Many companies are offering natural toe-box-shaped shoes. Feet tend to spread out as you get closer to the toes, and these foot-shaped shoes take this into account. This may be intriguing for those with wide feet as you won't need to worry about your pinky toe hanging off the side. If you find your toes hanging off, those shoes don't fit! Those with narrow feet might have the opposite problem — shoes that are too big. Narrow-footed folks may need to size down a half size for properly fitted straps.

Different models have different arch support heights. Choosing the right level of support can help prevent conditions like plantar fasciitis. If you've got high arches, search for an option with greater arch support. In contrast, those with low arches should avoid arch-aggressive shoes, which may cause pain over time. Some flip flops will provide extra support through a rounded heel cup. This helps keep the heel bone secure and stable. If you choose a flip flop with a heel cup, make sure your heel sits comfortably in the center.

Conclusion

Over the past decade, we've made it our mission to find the best gear, including these warm-weather must-haves. After being put through rigorous hands-on testing, this review represents some of our favorite models for men and women. We get how overwhelming it can be to find the right footwear, especially when the market is saturated with options. We hope we've made it easier for you to tackle your warm-weather day-to-day activities in a pair of these top-rated flip flops.

Embarking on a new running journey? Check out our testing results for running shoes. If running isn't your thing, no problem. We've tested the top hiking boots, rain boots, and even the top-rated slippers so you can comfortably handle your day-to-day. And if you're going to be out on the water, take a look at our picks for water shoes.