Whether youre 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 eight 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 2 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 buyers guide and FAQ to help you learn what to consider when searching for the best flip-flops for you.

　　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 Best Overall Flip-Flops for Women OluKai ‘Ohana Flip-Flops Specs Sizes 5-12 Strap Traditional Y-strap Number of colors available 16

　　Pros The most number of color options available based on all of the ones we tested 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 Brandy Jo Hastings 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. 

　　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 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 its 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 16 colors: the most color options available in all the flip-flops we tested.

　　$75 at REI$75 at Amazon Best Budget Flip-Flops for Women Teva Olowahu Flip-Flops Specs Sizes 5-12 Strap Y-strap Hybrid Number of colors available 6

　　Pros The unique strappy style makes this the most fashionable of the 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 Brandy Jo Hastings We were surprised to find that 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 testers 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 that had the toe post that 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, we found that you can still feel the rub between your toes if you are walking for extended periods of time also, but these shoes aren’t really made for that purpose.

　　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.

　　$34 at REICheck price at Teva Best Flip-Flops for Women for All-Day Comfort HOKA ORA Recovery Flip Specs Sizes 5-11 Strap Traditional Y-strap Number of colors available 5

　　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 Brandy Jo Hastings 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.

　　$60 at REICheck price at HOKA Best Beach-to-Brunch Flip-Flops for Women Chaco Classic Flip Specs Sizes 5-12 Strap Traditional Y-strap Number of colors available 4

　　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 Brandy Jo Hastings 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. Our tester made the mistake of wearing these for the first time on a day that involved a lot of walking. She quickly learned that may not have been the best excursion to break them in. She wore them for about 5 hours that day and realized within the first hour that the straps were creating blisters on the tops of her feet.

　　The next time she wore them, they were completely fine though, and didn’t cause any blisters or discomfort. Every time since then has been fine, too. The straps just needed that initial break-in time.

　　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. 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.

　　$65 at REICheck price at Chaco Best of the Rest OOFOS OOahh Slide Specs Sizes 5-16 Strap Slide Number of colors available 8

　　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 Brandy Jo Hastings 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 was less to hold your feet in place when being active. We particularly found this to be true when wearing them in the water.

　　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 performed fine when walking in the water, and our feet felt more securely held in place, so it’s a great option for use in the water.

　　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.

　　$60 at REI$60 at Amazon Reef Cushion Breeze Specs Sizes 5-12 Strap Traditional Y-strap Number of colors available 3

　　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 Brandy Jo Hastings 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.

　　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 three 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.

　　check price at reef KEEN Bali Slides Specs Sizes 5-11 Strap Slide/Hybrid Number of colors available 3

　　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 Brandy Jo Hastings The Keen Bali Slide ($85) 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 river and climbed 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 big toe was covered with a strap and the additional rubber support on the end of the shoe, while our pinky toe was covered by a side strap. Our other toes were free and exposed.

　　Our tester 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 ones 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.

　　$85 at AmazonCheck price at KEEN Flip-Flops for Women Comparison Chart

　　Different flip-flop styles are made for different uses, and we put all of them through the ultimate tests; (photo/Brandy Jo Hastings)

　　How We Tested Flip-Flops for Women When looking for the best women’s flip-flops, we considered eight 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, 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, 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, and Arkansas.

　　Brandy wore these flip-flops for 2 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.

　　We chose the Olukai ‘Ohana as the Overall Best Women’s Flip-Flop because its a great go-to flip-flop that excels in many ways; (photo/JP Fiorenza) Buyers Guide: How to Choose the Best Flip-Flops for Women The perfect pair of flip-flops is a must for your summer wardrobe. 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.

　　You may also want a good pair of flip-flops for post-workout recovery. 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.

　　Considering how you will be using your flip-flops will help you decide on the best ones for your needs; (photo/JP Fiorenza)

　　Straps The straps are one of the most important things to think about 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, youll 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.

　　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 aren’t going to have this design.

　　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 Reef Cushion Breeze flip-flops have a traditional Y-strap with a lining inside the strap made from recycled plastic bottles; (photo/Brandy Hastings) 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, its 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.

　　The wide strap on the OOFOS OOahh Slide holds your foot comfortably in place and slips on easily; (photo/Brandy Hastings) 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 found beneficial to foot health. They even offer a Seal of Acceptance for these products. Some of the flip-flops listed on their website include 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 are going to give you more support and bring more comfort when worn for longer periods of time.

　　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.

　　The footbed and sole help determine the comfort level of your flip-flops; (photo/Brandy Hastings)

　　Outsole The outer sole may not touch your feet, but it is where the shoe meets your walking surface. And, its 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.

　　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.

　　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.

　　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, its 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.

　　Stylish, functional, and comfy, the Chaco Classic Flip fits our feet — and our lifestyle — perfectly; (photo/Brandy Hastings) 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 16 colors available: most of all, the flip-flops we tested.

　　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.

　　Flip-flops come in a variety of styles — including the strappy look of the Teva Olowahu; (photo/Brandy Hastings)

　　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.

　　Flip-flops with a good sole like the KEEN Bali Slides give you better traction when using them in and near the water; (photo/JP Fiorenza) Price In our years of wearing flip-flops, we’ve learned that a good pair of flip-flops can last long. They also tend to be much more comfortable than super cheap ones, providing a better experience overall. Because of these things, we dont 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 costs more than $34.

　　The Reef Cushion Breeze is more than 50% less than the priciest flip-flop we tested but it was a great flip-flop for everyday use; (photo/JP Fiorenza)

　　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.

　　We love a flip-flop that we can easily throw in our beach bag; (photo/JP Fiorenza)

　　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 manufacturers 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.

　　HOKA lets you try your flip-flops for 30 days and return or exchange them if you don’t completely love them; (photo/JP Fiorenza)

　　FAQ Should you size up or down in flip-flops?

　　  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.

　　What are the most comfortable flip-flops for walking? 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.

　　Is it OK to wear flip-flops with a dress?

　　  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.

　　What flip-flops do podiatrists recommend?

　　  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.

　　Are slides the same as flip-flops? 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.

　　Are flip-flops OK for the beach? 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.

　　Which types of flip-flops are best? 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, and OOFOS OOahh Slides.

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