From the California coast to the Gold Coast of Australia, Haleiwa to Florianopolis to New Smyrna Beach, there may be no more ubiquitous form of footwear than a humble pair of flip flops. Referred to around the world as thongs, chanclas, “slippahs,” and at least a dozen other names, why the flip flop continues to remain the go-to sandal style for surfers is equal parts form and function — they’re light, comfortable, easy to put on and take off, and fairly inexpensive.
The simplicity of the flip flop’s construction — a sole, two straps that wrap around the foot, and a post that goes between the big toe and the second toe — disguises how difficult it can be to make a pair that is comfortable and built to last. Or, rather, how many options there are to find the perfect pair, depending on your needs. From materials to construction to sizing, the flip flop market is awash with variety, so we took it upon ourselves to test as many flip flops as we could get our hands on (er, feet in). After ample boardwalk strolls, morning surf checks, and a few ambitious outings to test the limits of these casual shoes, here are our favorites.
Navigate To: Comparison Table | How We Tested | Buyer’s Guide
Related: The Best Men’s Sandals | The Best Beach Sandals for Women | More Gear Reviews
The Best Men’s Flip Flops
Best All-Around (Leather) Flip Flops: Olukai Tuahine
Runner-Up Best All-Around: Hari Mari Fields
Best Budget Flip Flops: Havaianas Top
Best Value Flip Flops: Teva Mush II
Best All-Around Full-Synthetic) Flip Flops: Olukai ‘Ohana
A Timeless Classic: Rainbow Double Layer Arch
Favorite Slides: Adidas Adilette
Best All-Around (Leather) Flip Flops
Olukai Tuahine ($100)
Pros: Waterproof, premium materials, comfort that improves with time
Cons: Price
Sizing Recommendation: Runs a little small, for half sizes, we recommend sizing to the next size up
Olukai’s Tuahine takes the timeless design and comfort of the leather flip flop and gives it the major upgrade it deserves. For years, we’ve been hopeless devotees of the tan leather flip flop because they get more comfortable over time, are incredibly durable, and have a classic look.
One major drawback of leather flip flops, though, is you (usually) want to avoid getting them wet. This isn’t always possible when spending days at the beach or near the pool. The fact that Olukai’s Tuahines are made with waterproof leather is a huge durability upgrade for those accustomed to classic leather sandals.
The second enhancement is in the Tuahine’s sole, which features a wet-grip rubber that is also non-marking for the boaters and fishermen among us. In testing, we found that the Tuahines also offered great arch support – second maybe to the KLLY Lunar flip flops (see below). They feature a cupped heel for optimum fit with no break-in period needed. For those accustomed to a more bouncy, foamy feel underfoot in their flip flops, Olukai’s Tuahines are not it – we’d recommend the Rainbow Double Layers or KLLY Lunars for more bounciness, or the Teva Mush or Hari Mari Fields for squish. The Tuahines have more of a solid, close-to-the-ground type of feel. Also, note that the Tuahines run a bit small, so we’d recommend sizing up if you’re between sizes. Finally, we’d be remiss if we didn’t acknowledge that the Olukais are some of the priciest on the list. After years of testing, though, these flip flops have only improved with time. Read our full review of the Olukai Tuahine here.
Runner-Up Best All-Around (Leather) Flip Flops
Hari Mari Fields ($75)
Pros: Soft premium leather comfort, low-profile minimalist style, solid price
Cons: Limited structure and support, leather is not waterproof
Sizing recommendation: For half sizes, size up to the nearest full size
Olukai’s Tuahine sandals may have beaten out Hari Mari’s Fields flip flops for our best overall slot, but only by the slimmest of margins. That’s because Hari Mari makes a damn good classic leather flip flop with a handful of premium upgrades that up the comfort factor in a big way. If you prefer a leather flip flop with some squish to it, these are likely the flops for you.
Hari Mari uses the term “buttery” to describe the feel of the leather they use for the Fields. Before testing, we honestly weren’t totally sure what they meant. But slipping them on for the first time, we understood. These things are soft. Memory foam footbeds with slight cupping are plush, but not to the point of feeling high profile. And what may seem like a small detail – a memory foam toe post – actually made a pretty big difference in preventing rubbing and blisters between the toes on longer strolls.
While the Fields have some arch support, it’s pretty minimal compared to the Olukai Tuahines or KLLY Lunar. As is the structure of the sandal overall. But compared to both, the Fields are much lower profile and more style-forward. Think of the kind of flip flops that are good for the beach but also pair nicely with a pair of jeans for a casual night out. The branding is muted, and there’s no ornate stitching. Everything feels to the point, the way a classic leather sandal should.
The Fields come in at a great mid-range price point, but are not waterproof leather. So, not ideal for environments where getting wet is a guarantee. For activities like ocean fishing, we’d recommend the Tuahines for their waterproofing and outsole that is made to grip better when wet. However, as hinted at earlier, if you prefer a softer footbed, and like the classic look and feel of leather, the Fields have a lot going for them.
Best Budget Flip Flops
Havaianas Top ($28)
Pros: Dirt cheap and stylish
Cons: Not the most comfortable, supportive, or durable
Sizing Recommendation: Narrow fit, size up if between sizes
Any list of the best flip flops would be incomplete without a mention of the classic Havaianas. While they may not be a top performer in the comfort or durability department, they make up for it with style and a dirt-cheap price point.
Havaianas Top flip flops are made in a super-simple, 100% rubber construction with the sole and strap each constructed from a single piece of rubber. The strap connects through the sole with a plug design like many other simple, budget flops on the market. To our tester, this is the main weakness of the design, as, with heavy use, one of the plugs will inevitably, at some point, pop through the sole. They can be re-inserted, but after they’ve popped through once, they will be prone to doing so again.
Compared to the more well-constructed flip flops on this list, the Havaianas simply don’t compete in terms of comfort or durability. They certainly are stylish, to a degree, and ooze that beachside cache that many shoppers might be looking for in their next pair of flip flops. Best of all, with a price that often dips below $20 (when they’re on sale), you could buy yourself three pairs of Havaianas for the price of one pair of mid-tier sandals on this list. If you’re someone prone to losing flip flops before durability issues become a concern, these might be the flip flops for you. However, if you see yourself putting your flops to the test in hard conditions, you’ll likely get better use out of the Teva Reflip, below.
Best Value Flip Flops
Teva Mush II ($40)
Pros: Comfortable, squishy, foot-molding foam
Cons: Narrow fit, size up if you have wide feet
Sizing Recommendation: Size up to the nearest size for half sizes, or up a full size for wide feet
For years, Teva’s Reflip has been our best-value flip flop. Made with sustainable, sturdy materials, water-ready, and a price that’s half of other, more “premium” flip flops on this list, this was one of the easiest awards we gave in the highly competitive field of flip flops that we tested for this review. Unfortunately, Teva has since discontinued the Reflip (you can still find some sizes on Amazon), and so we’ve turned our attention here to another great, budget-friendly option from Teva, the Mush II.
Compared to the Reflip, the Mush II is, well, mushier, with a soft, spongy footbed that molds to your feet over time. The flops start with a semi-defined heel cup, which shapes to your foot as you wear them in. Water-ready, with quick-drying straps. Very lightweight and packable. Tread is minimal, and the narrowness, while not an issue for our tester (who has narrow feet), has been called out in online reviews. Compared to a true budget option like Havaianas, the Mush II has a sturdier sole and high-quality webbing that’s built to last, so they’re a great upgrade without totally breaking the bank.
Best All-Around Full-Synthetic Flip Flops
Olukai ‘Ohana ($80)
Pros: Comfortable, supportive, and ready for anything
Cons: A little pricey, prone to sun damage
Sizing Recommendation: True to size, size up if between sizes
Olukai makes great flip flops. Period stop. From all-leather designs to premium synthetic and mid-range options, no matter what you choose, you’re getting comfort, durability, and style. The Olukai ‘Ohana sits at the top of the premium synthetic range from Olukai, and is their bestselling flip flop to date. Once we got our hands on them, we could see why. Firm and supportive, with just enough cushion, no break-in period, no chafing, these felt perfect from the get-go, and have worn in beautifully since we’ve been wearing them.
That durability matters because these are genuinely all-conditions flip flops. They’re fully water-ready, drying fast enough that you can go from ocean to errands without a second thought, and they hold up just as well on pavement as they do on sand. Add in a clean, understated look that doesn’t scream “beach shoe” the second you walk into a restaurant, and you’ve got a flip flop that does everything well instead of doing one thing great and compromising everywhere else. One note on durability – and this goes for most flip flops – don’t leave them in the sun for hours, as these are ripe conditions for glue failure.
It’s a tight race between the Olukai ‘Ohana and its all-leather sibling, the Olukai Tuahine, for that top-pick spot. While the ‘Ohana might be a little cheaper, the bestselling Olukai style to date, and more water-ready, the Tuahine really breaks the mold with a stylish full-leather, fully-waterproof flip flop that brings comfort, support, and hardwearing leather durability to the table.
A Timeless Classic
Rainbow Double Layer Arch ($74)
Pros: Cushy comfort in a premium leather package, Rainbow iconic styling
Cons: Bit of a break-in period, limited structure out of the box
Sizing Recommendation: Size up to the nearest size for half sizes
Rainbow has been crafting timeless, quality sandals since 1974 and was the first company to build a rugged sandal meant to meet the demands of surfers. Although Rainbow’s flagship Single Layer Arch sandal continues to be the benchmark for other premium leather sandals, we opted to include the Double Layer Arch in this review for a more plush and supportive upgrade with the look and durability Rainbows are known for. Make no bones about it, Rainbow’s Double Layer sandal delivers.
Featuring an additional layer of foam from the arch to the heel, the Double Layer Classic has a much spongier, bouncier feel than the Single Layer Arch, but without sacrificing that iconic Rainbow style. We’re also huge fans of the single-layer Rainbows, which, in contrast to the double-layer version, provide similar arch support but minimal bounce and squish. If you’re after a close-to-the-ground feel, give the Single Layer Rainbows a shot. We enjoyed the increased comfort of the double layers and so chose to feature those sandals here over the single-layer sandals.
Like all Rainbows, the Double Layers are designed to mold to your feet over time. But the break-in period does take a bit of commitment to overcome. Because the heel cup takes a while to develop as the foam breaks down, as it’s designed to do, there isn’t much structure to the sandal to start. So we did feel some fish-tailing of our heels happening until the heel cup began to form. The straps also felt a bit tight over the instep initially until they began to stretch to our feet.
Molding to your feet with rich nubuck leather and varying densities of super-soft sponge rubber, the advantage is that the more you wear them, the better they feel — they also last a really, really long time. If you treat them right, that is. We’ve had friends learn the hard way what happens to a pair of Rainbows that get left directly in the sun at the beach for a day. Or, what happens to them if they get overly soaked. The bottom line being – if you treat them right, they’ll treat you right.
For those more averse to buying sandals with a break-in period, we recommend either the Hari Mari Fields or Olukai Tuahine – both of which feel great right out of the box. Also, note that the nubuck leather used in Rainbow’s Double Layers is not waterproof. If you’re super keen on leather and want something waterproof, consider upgrading to the Tuahines. Or, if support and bounce are your primary considerations after waterproofing, then the KLLY Lunars are an ideal option.
Favorite Slides
Adidas Adillete ($30)
Pros: Super comfortable, easy to wear with socks, and cheap
Cons: Some complaints about the fit being too tight
Sizing Recommendation: Size up to the nearest size for half sizes
Looking to keep your socks on while you flop around? Well, unless you’re a fan of toe-socks, you’re likely in the market for a pair of slides, instead of traditional flip flops. Slides are a fairly self-explanatory concept, with a single band that goes over the top of the foot, and no toe post, so you can just slide your feet in – with or without socks.
The concept comes from the world of field sports, with athletes needing something they could easily slide into when taking their cleats off. And with that in mind, it’s little surprise that the most recognizable slide of them all is the Adidas Adilette. With a super spongy Cloudfoam footbed and midsole, a water-friendly design, and iconic Adidas styling, this slide ticks a lot of boxes. Priced at $30, they’re often on sale for a good bit cheaper (at the time of publishing, they’re $19 online). There’s also an insane number of color options to choose from.
All that said, it’s worth recognizing what type of purchase you are making here. The Adilette is a mass-produced piece of injection-molded foam, meaning you won’t get the attention to detail and long-lasting thoughtful design that you get with a pair of flops like the Olukai Tuahine or Rainbow Sandals. That said, our tester has been pleasantly surprised with how long his pair of Adilettes has lasted, belied by their soft and squishy feel.
There are some complaints online about a tight fit, but this wasn’t an issue for our tester. His narrow feet enjoyed the more secure fit, which worked well both with and without socks. However, without any form of adjustability, this is a product that might not work for some. If that’s the case, and slides are a necessity, check out the Reef Montauk Slides, which feature a similarly comfy footbed and midsole, but much higher-quality construction.
Best of the Rest
Most Supportive Flip Flops
KLLY Lunar ($90)
Pros: Perfect balance of comfort and support
Cons: High profile and limited color and style options
Sizing recommendation: KLLY recommends sizing down a full size. We found that, for those in-between sizes, sizing down a half-size worked well
One of the occupational hazards of surfing on the Championship Tour for over thirty years is that you spend a lot of time in flip flops. So, when the greatest surfer of all time slaps his name on a pair designed to fix some of the common complaints associated with the classic flip flop silhouette — namely, lack of support and discomfort for all-day wear — you pay attention. Kelly Slater developed the KLLY Lunar sandals for all-day comfort and to promote healthy alignment. And out of the box, the KLLY Lunar sandals absolutely achieve this. They are the most comfortable flip flops on our list. No break-in period needed.
We found them springy and snappy in all the right ways, yet with sufficient arch support for all-day wear. The strap is also extremely comfortable when properly sized –we found that it fits a little tight if you size the sandals down too far. And while we don’t know how much we buy into the connection between the moon and sea turtles that inspired some of the design elements, the texture of the footbed, inspired by the surface of the moon, offers good traction and is a nice touch.
The Lunars are also made using rPET and BLOOM foam made from algae, making them some of the most sustainable sandals on our list. Compared to more fashion-forward flip flops like the Hari Mari Fields or Olukai Tuahines, the Lunar sandals are noticeably thicker (like double to three times as thick). This cuts down considerably on ground feel and leads to a pretty high ride. So if you’re looking for a do-everything sandal that is a little more stylish, you may want to consider the Fields or Tuahines. Alternatively, if you’re looking for a light, comfortable flip flop that’s great when you’re on your feet all day (think long travel days, or even casually kicking around town where you’re doing lots of walking), a more supportive flip flop like the Lunars is exactly what you’ll need to ward off foot pain.
Editor’s Note: In our first review, we noted that there was only one colorway available at the time. The Lunars are now offered in four colorways. The all-black that we originally tested is called “New Moon,” and there are also Once in a Blue Moon (Blue), Blood Moon (Red), and Wolf Moon (Grey).
Convertible for Aquatic Adventures
Astral Filipe ($85)
Pros: Water-ready design with a convertible sandal strap
Cons: For a true adventure sandal for longer treks, there are better options
Sizing Recommendation: True to size
Astral’s Filipe is an interesting duck with some highly amphibious attitude for what might, at first glance, seem like a fairly regular flip flop. However, first glances can be deceiving. Thin “Super Straps,” included with the shoes, transform these into a locked-down sandal for whitewater adventures, a nod to Astral’s heritage and strong positioning in the river world. The convertability is a huge perk, especially for travel, if you’re looking for a casual and adventure sandal-in-one. A non-marking and rugged outsole provides great grip on slick surfaces like river rocks; the insole is grippy as well and extremely fast-drying, and with the strap removed, while they certainly have a bit of adventure-chic style going on, they wouldn’t be out of place at a beachside bar with the classy, muted, black or grey styling.
Our tester did experience some hot spots from the toe-posts after hiking for an extended period of time in rough terrain with the straps cinched all the way down, which may have been first-time use jitters, or, he admits, cranking the strap too tightly, but it’s worth being aware of. If you’re interested in the strap-down ability for water use, awesome, if you’re looking for a hiking sandal to take on longer treks, we’d probably nudge you towards the Bedrock Cairn Evo, below.
Another Runner-Up Best Overall
Hari Mari Clipper ($125)
Pros: Premium waterproof leather upper, designed to float, memory foam cushioned straps and toe post are a high-end touch
Cons: Cost, limited arch support
Sizing Recommendations: For half sizes, size up to the nearest size
Hari Mari continues to churn out some of the most handsome flip-flops out there by making small but meaningful tweaks to the classic formula, and their new waterproof Clipper sandal is no different. At first glance, it reads like a traditional leather sandal, but there’s a lot more happening under the hood. From memory foam–lined straps to a cushioned toe post, the Clipper delivers subtle but smart upgrades that make it stand out in the comfort department.
The full-grain leather upper is fully waterproof, which makes it a practical choice for beach or pool days. Underfoot, the cushy foam footbed gives it a plush, instantly comfortable feel. And while it’s not made for serious off-road use, the outsole grip held up surprisingly well during short walks, pier strolls, and even a few ventures onto uneven terrain. That said, it’s not the sandal we’d reach for on rugged adventures or long travel days. The arch support is light, and it lacks the structured heel cup of more support-forward flips like the Olukai Tuahine. But for those looking for a bit more plush bounce in each step, the Clipper delivers.
While the Clipper is one of the pricier flip flops we tested, it comes packed with premium upgrades for added comfort and functionality compared to your run-of-the-mill leather flip. It’s a thoughtfully designed lifestyle flip-flop that’s just as suited for sun-soaked beach days as it is for dressing up at golden hour.
Best Recovery Flip Flops
OOFOS OOriginal Sandal ($60)
Pros: Super comfortable, great recovery sandal
Cons: Not the most stylish
Sizing Recommendation: Size up to the nearest size for half sizes
OOFOS is a brand that quickly made a name for itself in the “recovery footwear” space, and after sliding in these bad boys for a spell, it’s easy to see why. While not the prettiest to look at, the OOFOS OOriginal are easily the most comfortable flip flops on this list. Each step in a pair of these feels like the sandal is absorbing impact, compressing, and springing you forward for added oomph in your stride.
While these aren’t the flops we’d recommend for a date night out, the OOFOS are incredibly impressive for a variety of specific use cases – post-surf comfort at home, the gym, errands, etc. Also, the entire sandal is made from a single foam mold, meaning even the straps are made of EVA foam. For things like a post-workout gym shower, or for wearing while hosing down your wetsuit after a surf, this is ideal, and a point of difference compared to other spongey, supportive flips like the KLLY Lunar sandals. The Lunars are supportive and could also work well as a recovery sandal, but the neoprene strap does take on water. At around 29mm, the sole stack of the OOFOS is the thickest of any pair of flip flops listed here, which means they ride very high and take some getting used to.
Best Hiking “Flip Flops”
Bedrock Cairn Evo Sandal ($115)
Pros: Light all-terrain style, rugged outsole
Cons: Minimalist structure, no arch support, style is not for everyone
Sizing Recommendation: Size up for half sizes
Bedrock’s Cairn Evo sandals neither flip nor flop. So what are they doing on our list of best flip flops? Glad you asked. With their Cairn Evo sandals, Bedrock has taken the humble flip flop and designed it with four-wheel drive and all-terrain tires. The result may be unsightly to some – the wife wasn’t a huge fan – but, in terms of functionality, Bedrock’s Cairn sandals are designed to go far beyond the limits of any other flip flop on this list. Think trail running, river rafting expeditions, and other similar pursuits in the outdoors.
By design, the Cairn Evos have very little material separating the bottom of your foot from the Earth. The footbed is also flat with no arch support. This is intentional. While Bedrock may not use the term “barefoot sandals” to describe its Cairn Evo sandals (instead, they use the term “freedom footwear”), they remain popular among barefoot runners precisely because of how minimalist they are.
While we aren’t barefoot devotees ourselves – far from it – in testing, we found the Cairns to be extremely light with minimal slipping and sliding once the fit was fully dialed in. The feeling is pretty close to being truly barefoot, if we’re being honest. We also appreciate how fit can be adjusted on both the left and right strap over the instep and at the heel to ensure minimal rubbing. The Cairns also feature a grippy Vibram outsole to tackle slick rock or anything else the trail may throw at you.
Comparing the Cairns to any other flip flops on the list, honestly, is a bit of an apples-to-oranges comparison. As flip flops go, the Cairns may be the only ones that could hold their own on the trail. But, we can see these being a great footwear choice for flip flop devotees looking for the level of traction that Vibram is known for. The only pair of flip flops on our list that comes close is the Olukai Tuahines featuring wet-grip rubber soles. While not “barefoot” flip flops, the Hari Mari Fields may be a great option for those looking for a minimalist feel that’s a bit more stylish.
Nifty Bottle Opener
Reef Fanning Plus ($90)
Pros: Super plush and comfortable design, iconic bottle opener on sole
Cons: Trends more casual, a little pricey
Sizing Recommendation: True to size
Reef’s Fanning sandal is an icon. Is it a little kooky and weird? Yes. Do people still love them? Also yes. Is the bottle opener on the bottom of the slippah’ the greatest or the dumbest thing ever invented? Yes.
With the Fanning Plus, Reef dials the comfort up to the max with an upgraded airbag sole, softer EVA footbed, and memory foam strap liner. The difference in comfort is noticeable, and the sandals have a nice amount of arch support that doesn’t feel too overstated. Plush footbed comfort is where these really stand out, striking a nice balance between sponginess and support.
Despite having the cachet of an athleisure sandal with the bottle opener and comfort upgrades, they are actually capable of quite a lot of rugged exploring. That said, if adventure readiness is your primary intent in purchasing a pair of flip flops, there are much better options on this list. Style, lounge-worthy comfort, and a bit of quirky fun are the name of the game with the Reef Fanning.
Sturdy Adventure Flip Flop
Chaco Men’s Rapid Pro Flip ($100)
Pros: Easy on and off of a flip with rugged Chaco footbed, Vibram outsole
Cons: Nylon webbing can rub during break-in, tricky sizing, price
Sizing Recommendations: True to size. For those in between sizes, we recommend sizing down for a more snug fit.
Chaco’s rugged and dependable Z/1 Classic has earned top marks in our sandal test year after year now. So when Chaco recently reached out about testing a flip flop that combines some of the best features of the Z/1 with a Vibram outsole, we were excited to give it a go. The result is an adventure-ready flip that doesn’t compromise on durability.
Our lead tester recently put the Rapid Pro through its paces during a summer trip in and around Mammoth Lakes, CA, and it did not disappoint. From mellow mountain hikes to a bit of spontaneous fly fishing lakeside, the Rapid Pro transitioned easily from trail to in-water and back without skipping a beat. The rugged outsole gripped extremely well on mossy rocks along the shoreline, and when re-emerging from water, they notably lacked the annoying squelch you get with other sandals when fully waterlogged. Though they didn’t feel quite as locked down as strappier waterproof numbers like Chaco’s Z/1 Classic, Teva’s Original Universal, or Bedrock’s Cairn Evo (see below), the easy on-and-off was a nice change of pace for lower-angle pursuits and transitioning from the trail to the lake to sun-soaked cornhole games at a local brewery.
The only snag came with sizing. If you fall between sizes, as our tester does, things get tricky: For him, sizing up felt too loose, while sizing down did produce a more secure fit, but also required a break-in period. Our tester opted to size down, hoping the webbing would loosen with time. It did, but not immediately – leading to some initial hotspots and discomfort during early wears.
All told, while there are plusher, more polished flips out there – like the Olukai Tuahine – for those wanting a tough-as-nails, go-anywhere flip-flop built to handle wet rocks, dusty trails, and everything in between, the Rapid Pro is a standout.
Sanuk Ziggy ($40)
Pros: Squishy, plush feel for maximum comfort
Cons: Not a ton of structure
Sizing Recommendation: For half sizes, size up to the next full size
Ziggy Soft Top flip flops from Sanuk fit the bill for anyone looking for a spongier, plush feel with every step. Compared to other flip flops on the list, Sanuk’s Ziggys are definitely the most padded, due to the bouncy, high-rebound midsoles and EVA footbed, which felt like walking on clouds.
The Ziggys are also fully water-ready, which gives them an edge on leather flip flops that may not handle water well. Worth noting is that because the Ziggys don’t mold to your foot like leather flip flops, they don’t develop a heel cup that holds your foot in place while you walk. Not a huge issue, but in testing, we found that this made the Ziggys feel a little less structured as the foot could slide around a bit during normal wear.
Compared to other foam flips, the Ziggys don’t have the most responsive foam midsole. What we mean by that is they feel plush, but don’t snap back quite as quickly with each step as, say, the KLLY Lunars or the OOFOS, which are made of higher-quality foam. The Ziggys feel more like a memory foam mattress, where our feet sink in but don’t get much spring back. As a budget option, the Ziggys are definitely high on comfort, but we wouldn’t recommend them if you’re the type to be on your feet all day. If that’s the case, you may want to consider a more supportive flip flop.
Honorable Mentions
There are so many quality flip flops on the market these days. And unfortunately, the difference between including a pair on our list and allowing it to drop off may come down to the way we split a few hairs. In light of that, we wanted to mention at least a few pairs of flip flops we put through testing that are not listed above but are still great and worth considering.
For one, the Birkenstock Honolulu Essentials EVA flip flop is an extremely light, fully waterproof flip, boasting the footbed contours Birkenstock is known for at a much more approachable price. The only rub is that the sizing can be a little tricky to get dialed in, and there isn’t much room for error since there’s a ridge that surrounds the perimeter of the footbed.
Sanuk’s You Got My Back takes the brand’s comfort-forward, plush flip flops and turns them into a solid pair of mules. They’re light, cozy, and, unlike most other flip flops on our list, work equally well with socks.
The well-known and well-loved Teva Reflip has been discontinued, replaced by the Teva Mush II (featured in our review). There’s very little that’s changed from one version to the next, but if you’re a devotee of the Reflip, you can still find limited sizing on Amazon, linked above.
Best Flip Flops Comparison Table
| Men’s Flip Flops | Price | Upper | Midsole | Outsole |
| Olukai Tuahine | $100 | Waterproof full-grain leather | Compression-molded EVA | Nonmarking Wet Grip rubber |
| Hari Mari Fields | $75 | Leather | Memory foam | Rubber |
| Havaianas Top | $28 | Rubber | Rubber | Rubber |
| Teva Mush II | $40 | Repreve polyester | EVA | EVA |
| Olukai ‘Ohana | $80 | Synthetic Leather | EVA | Non-marking rubber |
| Rainbow Double Layer Arch | $74 | Leather | Closed-cell memory foam | Non-slip rubber |
| Adidas Adilette | $30 | Synthetic rubber | Synthetic rubber | Synthetic rubber |
| KLLY Lunar Sandals | $90 | Water-resistant synthetic | BLOOM (algae-based foam) / rPET | rPET/BLOOM composite |
| Astral Filipe | $85 | Synthetic leather/nylon webbing | Closed-cell EVA | Non-marking rubber |
| Hari Mari Clipper | $125 | Waterproof leather | EVA foam | Rubber |
| OOFOS OOriginal Sandal | $60 | Proprietary OOfoam | Proprietary OOfoam | Proprietary OOfoam |
| Bedrock Cairn Evo | $115 | Polyester and nylon straps | EVA | Rubber |
| Reef Fanning Plus | $90 | Vegan Nubuck | EVA | Rubber |
| Chaco Men’s Rapid Pro Flip | $100 | LUVSEAT EVA | LUVSEAT EVA | Vibram |
| Sanuk Ziggy | $40 | Synthetic leather | Soft top foam | Happy U tread sponge rubber |
How We Tested The Best Flip Flops
As lifelong surfers and outdoor enthusiasts, we know a thing or two about a good pair of flip flops. You likely wouldn’t be at all surprised to learn that our lead tester has at least one pair of Rainbows that are beaten to hell in a closet somewhere that he refuses to ditch for sentimental reasons. We’ve also had our fair share of ill-fitting flops, or others that have totally blown out after being pushed to their limit. So, for this test, we knew we had to get it right.
A Huntington Beach native, our lead tester Dylan Heyden has been sporting flip flops in and around the beaches of Orange County for the better part of two years to test each pair listed here, and some that didn’t make the cut, for comfort, fit, function, style, and other features. From walks on the pier and boardwalk, to surf checks, time on the beach, and even some light hiking, over the years we’ve been able to pit new pairs of sandals against tried and true icons, established brands against newcomers, to determine which pairs stand out the most.
Will Sileo, our other tester for this article, has been living in flip flops or barefoot for as long as he can remember. A Bay Area native who spends more than just his summers by the beach, flip flops are a year-round staple, and you can usually find at least a couple of pairs floating around his minivan. He’s put dozens of pairs through the wringer over the years, from sandy scrambles at Ocean Beach and Land’s End to long walks at Stinson and everywhere in between. Between the two of us, we’ve logged serious mileage in flip flops across California’s coastline, and we brought all of it to bear on this guide.
Some version of this article has lived on The Inertia for a while now, but we began our more rigorous testing and reviewing efforts on this guide in 2023, and it’s seen a number of updates since then, bringing in the latest and greatest, replacing discontinued products, and always adding fresh photos and relevant information as our testing continues. In our most recent update in the summer of 2026, we added four new pairs of flip flops, made some ranking adjustments, and added a number of new photos from a recent testing trip to Maui.
Best Flip Flops Buyer’s Guide
Types of Flip Flops
Flip flops have a pretty simple general formula – a toe post between the big and second toes with two straps that cross over the instep of the foot. And being that the heel is generally free (hence the flipping and flopping), flip flops are not great all-terrain footwear. The only exception to the rule here is the Bedrock Cairn sandals, which are not technically a flip flop. The Chaco Rapid Pro is another great all-terrain option, but as it is a traditional flip flop construction, it wouldn’t be our first choice for more strenuous adventures.
Still, there are some distinguishing features among flip flops currently on the market that put them into a few different categories. Leather flip flops like the Olukai Tuahines are stylish and sturdy, but in general, they can be more costly and require more care to keep them going strong. Leather flip flops also often have a rubber outsole, which can be good for grip. Alternatively, injection-molded foam flip flops like the KLLY Lunars can be similarly sturdy, are often waterproof, and require less diligence. Injection-molded flip flops can be made with a rubber outsole, but not always.
What Makes a Good Pair of Flip Flops?
Picking the best pair of flip flops for you is really a matter of figuring out your specific needs. Kicking around the pool or at the beach is one thing, and if you’re just looking for something to throw on your feet before heading into the convenience store (no shoes, no service), a pair of Havaianas will do the trick. But, in more demanding environments or after spending extended time on your feet, you may quickly realize when you’re undergunned in the flip flop department.
Planning on spending extended hours at sea, fishing, or otherwise? Maybe prioritize something waterproof like Olukai’s Tuahines or foam like the KLLY Lunar or the Teva Mush II. Dragging board bags through the airport on surf trips a lot? Comfort and support may be a good idea, so foot pain doesn’t keep you out of the water – maybe the KLLY Lunar.
And if you’re looking for something all-wheel drive, consider Bedrock’s Cairn Sandals. On the other hand, if you are just wearing your flip flops for casual surf checks and back and forth to the car, our budget pick, the Havaianas Top, or one of the more value pairs on our list, like the Teva Reflips, will be plenty of flip to flop around in.
(Editor’s note: For sandals capable of standing up to more strenuous activity, consider a quick scroll through our Best Sandals or Best Hiking Sandals guides.)
Anatomy of a Flip Flop
What’s so complicated about flip flops, you may ask? Nothing really. But a bit of fluency in the terms companies use can go a long way when shopping for your next pair of flops.
In broad terms, a typical flip flop is made up of an outsole, midsole, footbed, and straps. All flip flops feature two straps that form an upside-down V when looking down at your feet, which connect at a central point that goes between your toes. The material that goes between your big toe and first toe is called the post.
A quick look at our list and you’ll see most flip flops fit into one of two categories: either material layered on top of each other like a layer cake, or injection molding. Layered construction is definitely the most common, like the Olukai Tuahine or the Hari Mari flip flops, for example.
Injection molding, on the other hand, is a process in which liquid foam is poured into a mold when it’s super hot, cools, and out pops a flip flop. The OOFOS OOriginal Sandal, for example, is purely injection-molded, down to even the straps. Sometimes these processes can be combined, where you might get an EVA foam midsole with a rubber outsole. Or, with the KLLY Lunar, you get a solid foam piece underfoot with neoprene straps.
Choosing your preferred construction is a personal choice. Injection-molded sandals may be plush, bouncy, and supportive, but lack the buttery soft feel of a material like nubuck leather. Many of them also do not have leather outsoles for grip. Alternatively, layered construction has the benefit of combining positive aspects of different materials into a single package. Layered leather flip flops, like Rainbow Double Layer, for example, have soft leather underfoot with squishy foam meant to be molded to your foot over time.
Comfort Versus Support
Comfort is a bit of a squishy term across the footwear industry in more ways than one. Squishy, bouncy midsoles are often marketed as being high on comfort. And, while that may be true after an hour of wear, it may be less so after an entire day on your feet. That’s where a footbed meant to support the arch and natural curves of the foot comes in.
If foot health is a primary consideration, you might also consider taking a look at the flip flops that have been issued a seal of acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA).
At the time of publishing, the only products with an APMA Seal of Acceptance were the OOFOS OOriginal Sandal and the Chaco Men’s Rapid Pro Flip.
Flip Flops Sizing
Ask our main men’s flip flop tester what the three most frustrating aspects of testing flip flops are, and he’ll tell you sizing, sizing, and sizing. As a person whose street shoe falls between whole sizes, he understands the unique frustrations of trying to figure out whether to size up or down, making plenty of incorrect calls in the course of testing.
While going into a physical retailer is the best way to avoid this issue, we understand how convenient it is to shop online. So with that in mind, we do our best to include sizing recommendations based on our personal experiences.
Olukai’s Tuahine takes the timeless design and comfort of the leather flip flop and gives it the major upgrade it deserves. These flip flops are made with waterproof leather, and their soles feature a wet-grip rubber.
Cost
As with most things, “you get what you pay for” is an applicable maxim in the world of flip flops. Better materials generally last longer. So, a more expensive flip may be worth the investment if you’d be shelling out for three lesser pairs over the same period. On the other hand, if you frequently lose flip flops, a couple of pairs of the Havaianas Top might provide more bang for your buck than a pricier option.
That said, the premium features of some of the more costly pairs on our list may be more than you actually need. In our individual reviews, we do our best to compare and contrast different flip flops to help you through the decision-making process based on your unique needs and budget.
Return To: Top Picks | Comparison Table
Related: The Best Men’s Sandals | The Best Beach Sandals for Women
Editor’s Note: For more gear reviews and features on The Inertia, click here.
