7 Flip Flops With Actual Arch Support Our Testers Walked In All Day
Skip the sore feet with supportive flip flops built for comfort.
Expert consulted: Grace WuSenior Analyst
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While many flip flops may be convenient for the beach or pool, they often lack the support your feet need for walking. The result? Achy arches, sore heels, and tired feet by the end of the day. Fortunately, there are supportive flip flops with features like contoured footbeds, built-in arch support, and cushioning to help keep your feet feeling great, whether you’re running errands, sightseeing (yes, I’ve walked all around NYC in these Birkenstocks and never had foot pain), or at a wedding (you can totally dance in these Oofos).
Our top picks:
- Best overall: Birkenstock Gizeh Big Buckle
- Best value: Teva TirraTraveler Flip
- Best recovery: Oofos OOriginal PLUS
- Best arch support: KURU Footwear MOMENT Flip
To find the most supportive flip flops, I teamed up with the footwear experts in the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab, who test everything from the best walking sandals to walking shoes. I personally wore 10 flip flop styles, assessing support, comfort, cushioning, and durability, and prioritizing pairs with designs that promote healthy foot alignment. I also considered flip flops that have earned the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance, meaning they've been evaluated for promoting good foot health.
Pros
- Excellent arch support and stability
- Stylish oversized buckle elevates the classic flip flop
- Premium oiled leather that ages well
- Durable construction that can last for years with proper care
- Versatile enough for all types of outings
Cons
- Expensive compared to traditional flip flops
- Cork footbed and leather upper aren't ideal for water exposure
WHY WE LOVE IT: Though I typically find flip-flops less comfortable than other sandals, the Birkenstock Gizeh is a major exception. I've been wearing various versions of the Gizeh for years, and they’re among the most comfortable, supportive walking shoes that I own. I practically live in them all summer long—they’re cute enough for a laid-back office yet comfy enough for walks with the dog, errands, and traveling.
The Gizeh Big Buckle is as suitable for walking miles as the Gizeh Classic, but they look even more elevated and fashion-forward. I’ve received countless compliments, and they’ve quickly become my favorite pair of shoes.
WHAT TO KNOW: The cork footbed molds to your feet over time, creating a perfect fit that offers support and stability. In my personal experience, they’re also durable, with leather that ages well.
My one issue with them is you have to avoid getting them wet. For beach trips or pool days, I recommend the plastic Gizeh Essentials, which are a lightweight, waterproof version that’s easy to rinse clean while still providing more support than most flip flops.
Pros
- Excellent traction compared to traditional flip flops thanks to the grippy rubber outsole
- Supportive footbed provides more stability
- Breathable, strappy design feels secure on the foot without being bulky
- Lightweight and easy to pack for vacations
Cons
- Sizing can be tricky
WHY WE LOVE IT: Whether you’re camping, traveling, or hanging out by the lake, these Tevas deliver impressive comfort at a reasonable price and they’re available in five colorways. The sporty strappy design is paired with a grippy rubber outsole that can handle everything from puddles to light trails. I personally love that they're cute and comfy yet better suited for outdoor adventures than other flip flops.
WHAT TO KNOW: The cushioned footbed provides excellent comfort and support, while the traction-heavy outsole helps you feel secure on a variety of surfaces without looking bulky. They’re lightweight, breathable, and easy to pack, making them a great choice for traveling. I do want to note, though, that sizing can be tricky since these aren't adjustable. The straps may fit too snugly or too loosely depending on foot shape since they're not adjustable.
| Materials | Recycled polyester webbing, microfiber lining and rubber outsole |
| Water-friendly | Yes |
Pros
- Extremely cushioned and shock-absorbing, making them ideal for tired feet and recovery
- Wide strap feels secure
- Elevated arch support and heel cup help cradle the foot comfortably
- Earned the APMA Seal of Acceptance for promoting good foot health
Cons
- Recovery-focused design isn't as versatile or for all-day wear
- Thick foam construction may feel too bulky for those who prefer a lower-profile sandal
WHY WE LOVE IT: My parents swear by Oofos, and after trying my first pair, I quickly understood why. Designed as a recovery sandal, the OOriginal Plus uses the brand's proprietary OOfoam technology to absorb impact and reduce stress on joints.
I love wearing these around the house or after long days on my feet. The upgraded design feels incredibly lightweight despite the added cushioning, while the wide strap enhances stability. The plush foam makes me feel like I'm walking on a cloud, but I wouldn't wear these on long walks.
WHAT TO KNOW: Compared with the original OOriginal, this version features extra cushioning, additional height, and a wider strap for a more secure fit. It also has a pronounced arch and heel cup that cradle the foot. All pairs of Oofos have earned the APMA Seal of Acceptance, which promotes good foot health, but our Textiles Lab experts recommend wearing these recovery sandals for limited durations.
| Materials | OOfoam foam construction |
| Water-friendly | Yes |
Pros
- Exceptional arch and heel support thanks to the heel-cupping design
- Plush cushioning feels comfortable right out of the box and helps absorb impact while walking
- Soft padded straps and toe post help prevent rubbing and hot spots
- Lightweight despite the substantial cushioning
Cons
- Bulkier profile than traditional flip flops
- Not as dressy or versatile as some other flip flips
WHY WE LOVE IT: I was obsessed with these from the moment I slipped them on. The materials felt soft, and the footbed molded comfortably to my arches. On top of being instantly comfortable and cloud-like, they felt custom-made for my feet while remaining surprisingly lightweight.
WHAT TO KNOW: Unlike many flip flops that feel flat and flimsy, the Kuru MOMENT Flip delivers serious support. Designed with heel-hugging technology, they have substantial cushioning, strong arch support, and a soft, padded strap for all-day comfort (and blister prevention!). The trade-off of the added cushioning is that these look bulkier and not as dressy and versatile as other flip flops, particularly leather styles like Birkenstocks.
| Materials | Synthetic and EVA foam |
| Water-friendly | Yes |
Pros
- Soft leather straps feel comfortable against the skin
- Supportive arch design and heel-cupping technology provide more stability
- Cushioned enough for extended wear without feeling overly bulky
- Premium leather construction gives the sandal a more versatile look
Cons
- Leather materials aren't ideal for water exposure
- Not as plush or cushioned as the Kuru MOMENT Flip
WHY WE LOVE IT: The buttery-soft leather straps looked and felt so luxurious against my skin, and the cushioning is substantial without feeling bulky.
WHAT TO KNOW: For shoppers who want support without quite as much cushioning, this style strikes a nice balance. The contoured footbed offers stability while maintaining a lower profile that’s easy to wear daily. They're not quite as plush as Kuru's MOMENT Flip, but the cushioning, supportive arch design, and heel-cupping technology make these flip flops a great choice for longer outings.
I also like that the Kuru KALA 2 is versatile enough for everything from beach days to everyday errands; just make sure not to run into the ocean while wearing them since they're not fully waterproof.
| Materials | Leather and rubber |
| Water-friendly | No |
Pros
- Water-friendly construction makes them ideal for the beach, pool, and boating
- Contoured footbed provides noticeably more arch support
- Excellent traction on wet surfaces thanks to the grippy rubber outsole
- Available in a wide range of colors and patterns
Cons
- Arch support may feel too pronounced for some wearers initially
WHY WE LOVE IT: The contoured footbed with tons of arch support is so comfy that I could spend all day in these—although the arch support may feel too pronounced for some wearers at first. Unlike many supportive flip flops on the market, I like that these are offered in 21 strap options, including fun tropical prints and patterns. They’re stylish enough for vacation, while remaining functional for all-day wear.
WHAT TO KNOW: Inspired by the feeling of feet resting in wet sand, OluKai's best-selling 'Ohana sandals combine comfort, support, and water-friendly construction. The quick-drying straps and durable outsole make them an ideal choice for beach vacations, poolside wear, and boating. The grippy rubber outsole provides excellent traction on wet surfaces.
| Materials | Water-resistant synthetic, EVA, and rubber |
| Water-friendly | Yes |
Pros
- Excellent arch support thanks to Chaco's LUVSEAT footbed
- APMA Seal of Acceptance for promoting good foot health
- Grippy rubber outsole is stable on wet surfaces
- Water-friendly materials dry quickly
Cons
- Firm footbed may feel too rigid if you prefer soft, plush cushioning
WHY WE LOVE IT: I grew up wearing Chacos at summer camp and around the lake, so I was excited to try this flip-flop version. While I’d still choose Classic Chacos for hiking, I like that the Flip USA are supportive, grippy, and I don’t have to worry about getting them wet.
WHAT TO KNOW: The Flip USA features Chaco’s signature LUVSEAT footbed, which is AMPA-certified and has built-in arch support. Combined with a grippy outsole, these deliver solid traction so you can stay confident on slippery surfaces. However, the firm footbed may feel too rigid if you prefer soft, plush cushioning.
| Materials | Polyester, PU, and rubber |
| Water-friendly | Yes |
How we test the best flip flops
For this guide, I personally wore 10 of the featured sandals during travel, daily walks, errands, and other summer outings. I also worked with footwear experts in the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab, who reviewed key comfort and support features and helped shape our evaluation criteria.
When evaluating supportive flip flops, our pros consider the following:
✔️ Arch support: We looked for contoured footbeds that help support the natural shape of the foot.
✔️ Comfort: We assessed cushioning, shock absorption, and overall feel.
✔️ Stability: We evaluated heel cups, footbed structure, and how securely each sandal stayed on the foot while walking.
✔️ Traction: We examined outsole materials and grip on various surfaces, including wet and dry conditions.
✔️ Materials and durability: We considered the quality of straps, footbeds, and outsoles.
✔️ Certifications: We prioritized sandals with APMA recognition and designs recommended for promoting foot health.
What to look for when shopping for flip flops
✔️Contoured arch: A supportive flip flop should feature a contoured footbed that follows the natural shape of your arch. Flat footbeds may contribute to fatigue and discomfort during prolonged wear.
✔️Heel cup: A deep heel cup helps cradle the heel and keep your foot properly aligned. This feature can improve stability and reduce excessive foot movement.
✔️Midsole cushioning: Look for cushioning that absorbs impact without feeling overly soft. Too much compression can reduce stability, while too little may leave your feet sore after long periods of walking.
✔️Toe-post design: The toe post should feel smooth and secure without rubbing. Wider straps and thoughtfully designed toe posts can help reduce irritation and improve comfort.
✔️Materials: Leather often molds to your foot over time and offers a premium look, while EVA foam and synthetic materials are typically lighter, water-friendly, and easier to clean. Consider how and where you'll be wearing your flip flops before choosing a material.
✔️Outsole traction: If you'll be wearing flip flops near water or on uneven terrain, look for rubber outsoles with textured tread patterns that provide reliable grip.
Why trust Good Housekeeping?
GH Institute Senior Reviews Writer and Analyst Olivia Lipski covers everything from tech and travel to home, auto, lifestyle, and more. In addition to bringing years of product review experience to GH, she’s a frequent traveler who deals with foot discomfort and has tested everything from supportive sandals like Birkenstocks to knee braces.
For this guide, Lipski collaborated with the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab and consulted Senior Product Analyst and Fiber Scientist Grace Wu. She also personally tested the pairs featured above to assess their real-world comfort, support, performance, and overall feel.
Grace Wu (she/her) is the senior analyst in the Good Housekeeping Institute's Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab, where she evaluates fabric-based products using specialized equipment and consumer tester data. Prior to starting at Good Housekeeping in 2022, she earned a master of engineering in materials science and engineering and a bachelor of science in fiber science from Cornell University. While earning her degrees, Grace worked in research laboratories for smart textiles and nanotechnology and held internships at Open Style Lab and Rent the Runway.
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