Weather is getting warmer and it’s time to kick off your shoes.  I have no trouble with that I am a huge fan of the sheddable shoe.  You too?  No problem…unless you or your kids are clocking a lots of miles in Flip Flops. Was a time when these rubbery little sandals were restricted to washing your car, hanging out at camp or schlepping to the beach.

Oh how times have changed. Nowadays, they're a summertime craze. What use to be a plain jane way to keep your feet off the hot sand are now available in fashion color and styles of every hue adorned with spangles, flowers, and college logos. Fun and fashionable maybe but those who love them need to realize if you are walking out all day at Disney…bad choice. ,

Found on WebMD, "Flip-flops and sandals during the summer are very common and very popular," says John G. Anderson, MD, a Michigan orthopedic surgeon and American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society spokesman.

What's their best purpose? "Flip-flops give you some basic protection to the bottom of your foot to walk around poolside or on a surface that may be warm during the summer," says Jim Christina, DPM, director of scientific affairs for the American Podiatric Medical Association.

What’s the big deal? Well if you value a pain free foot for you or the family for many years to come lots.  The bad part of $5.00 Flip Flops is in something they lack, support. And I mean in every way, no heel cushion, arch support or shock absorption. Add to that curling your toes to keep them on is bad also.

According to the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA). Wearers can suffer foot pain due to lack of arch support, tendinitis and even sprained ankles if they trip.

So if your summer is ruined without Flip Flops be sure to pony up for something with support so you don’t pay the price for being cheap. The APMA's web site recommends sandals from companies, such as Wolky, Chaco, Dansko and Rockport.

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