Review: "orthopedic" flip flops
Well, not *really* orthopedic, but flip-flops that have medial and lateral heel counters so the foot stays centered on the sole. And a little arch contour for that cozy feel.
Birkenstock Gizeh http://birkenstockusa.com/products/w...rko-flor/84387
Ok. It's a Birkenstock. The "Brooks Saddle" of the cork-soled shoe world. In my mind, this is the epitome of an "orthopedic" flip flop. After a week or two breaking in, so comfortable that they disappear under your feet. Secure as all get out. The instep strap is so close to the ankle that it really does hold the sole snug to the foot. And very cute, especially in the wild birko-flor colors. I looooove these. They have a fairly thick sole. Probably should not be worn in water. Can be resoled and re-footbeded. Made in Germany.
Olu Kai 'Ohana http://www.olukai.com/Product_AllWom...0110-7830.aspx
Nike did it right with these flip flops. (well, pretend you don't know that Nike was the angel investor for the former Nike dude who started this company, I guess it isn't really a Nike offshoot.) There is a lateral and medial heel counter, and an arch contour. Nothing like the aggressiveness of a Birkenstock, but along a similar idea. Especially because the "insole" is a lighter density (very soft and cushy!) foam than the midsole and outsole, and is inset into the midsole material. So it kind of creates a Birki-like wall around the footbed. Kind of. Anyway, your foot finds its place as it lands. The insole foam does an amazing job of keeping the sandal from getting slippery inside as you sweat or step in water. The straps are lined, which is really nice if you have tender tootsies. I loooove these, too. Cannot be resoled. Made in China.
Chaco Flip http://www.chacousa.com/US/en-US/Vie...lleryId=W-FLIP
Chaco was bought by the same holding company that owns Merrell. So far they haven't made any drastic changes to the general designs. The flip has medial and lateral counters (though not a cup effect like the Birki or Olu Kai) and a mild version of the Chaco arch. This flip has a very thin and flexible sole. They are cute, they don't flap around, and they are fine in the water. For some reason the straps killed the tops of my feet, they were just too tight. (I tried different sizes and models and got quite frustrated with the whole deal.) I wanted to love them. I gave them to a friend with narrower feet than mine and she ADORES them. Cannot be resoled. Made in China.
