Flip-Flops Do’s and Don’ts

Summertime evokes the favorite footwear of most Santa Clarita natives, the flip-flop. With temperatures reaching above 90 degrees most days of our summer this “beach-bum” accessory is easy to assort to. But before you want to throw on those flip-flops first think about what activity you’re going to do in the day so you can avoid serious feet injuries.
Lots of flip-flops in the market today offer very little in arch support, shock absorption and stability. The lack of these support systems can lead to injuries such as severe heel pain, sprained ankles, damaged toes and tendonitis.

Here are 10 Flip-Flops Do’s and Don’ts so your feet won’t flop on you this summer:

1. Look for a high-quality flip-flop that’s made of leather or higher end rubber instead of plastic or foam. This will help minimize skin irritations such as blisters.
2. Make sure you’re feet don’t fall of the edge of the flip-flop such as toes or heels.
3. Wear sturdy flip-flops at the beach, hotels, public pools, and locker rooms at gyms to avoid athlete’s foot and other feet skin diseases.
4. Do shop for a pair of flip-flops that doesn’t fold at the arch or middle area of the shoe. It should only bend at the middle of the ball of the feet. Flip-flops that bend in the arch lack arch support.
5. Do purchase a pair of new flip-flops at the beginning of each summer to make sure that you’re summer season starts off with a fresh pair of good shock absorbing flip-flops.
6. Don’t do yard work in flip-flops. Wear a shoe that protects covers your entire feet.
7. Don’t wear flip-flops when walking long distance or out shopping for more than four hours.
8. Don’t ignore cuts in between toes in the thong area. Get it treated, let in heal and don’t wear flip-flops until it’s better.
9. Don’t do activities in flip-flops such as sports, even just playing golf. The lack of arch support and shock absorption can lead to serious foot ailments.
10. Don’t wear the same flip-flops year after year. The foam in these shoes does break down and flatten.

For more information on how to find the right shoe for you for running, and walking please contact Runners Lane at 661-260-3368 or visit our website, www.runnerslane.com