When it comes to classic summer shoes for women, there's nothing quite like the flip flop. From the unmistakable "schlop" sound they make to the open, almost barefoot design, they're a staple of the sunny season and make the perfect holiday sandal too, whether for the beach or evening strolls. Nowadays many even come with arch support or comfy soles for walking long distances.
We firmly believe that every woman should have a pair of flip flops to slip on and off, so we've put together this guide to help you find some totally top-notch thongs. We scoured the web for the best rubber, leather and fabric pairs so you don't have to, and created a list of our favourites from Teva, Havaianas and more combining comfort, style and wearability.
Quick List - Top Flip Flops for Women
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The product description for flip flops will often just say "synthetic", but this can be one of a range of materials. Polyurethane, or faux-leather, is probably the most popular synthetic used to make flip flops and it's plant-based which is great news for vegans.
Some brands use recycled plastic in their straps for a more sustainable option, and many make the sole from EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) which is a non-toxic thermoplastic. EVA is particularly good for creating supportive cushioning for moulded soles, perfect for everyday wear.
Sometimes flip flops will be made from a combination of synthetic and natural materials, with the strap or parts of the upper being made from polyester. Polyester is an excellent choice due to its fabric feel against the skin as well as its durability and water resistance.
While you're here, check out some extremely chic pair of mule heels that will elevate any look.
Rubber is the perfect natural material for creating lightweight, waterproof flip flops that can be worn day to day. Not only is rubber naturally waterproof, but it can float, so you can be sure that your flip flops won’t sink into the salty waves, never to be seen again. It is also flexible, durable and super easy to clean.
The other natural material rivalling rubber is leather, which offers something quite different looks-wise. Leather is also not waterproof, and even being in salt, sand and moisture-filled air can cause it to degrade a little. However, you can apply a leather wax to protect against moisture damage. With proper care, leather can outlive almost any other material.
As well as being very durable with the correct maintenance, leather can be stylish, soft and exceptionally comfortable. You might also find straw to be combined with leather, rubber or another synthetic. A bi-product of the food growing industry, straw is cheap, sustainable and will keep your feet cool while creating a simple, rustic look.
Looking for vegan-friendly footwear? Browse our best vegan trainers.
The sole is often an overlooked feature when buying sandals, but it's important to consider the quality and style of sole of your flip flops. Consisting of an outsole and an insole, it determines how the shoe looks and feels, and crucially, how comfy it is to wear.
If you want to feel as supported as possible while being active, go for a sole that's moulded to the arch of your foot. A cushioned footbed will also offer a similar kind of comfort and support, though if you prefer a flat insole, opt for one that is textured to provide some grip while walking.
Flip flops that have a tiny heel will offer more support for your foot than those that are just one straight outsole, but for a really ergonomic fit, consider flatform flip flops with a slight gradient at the heel. Slightly flared soles or a square toe can add visual appeal too, creating an intentional and stylish look.
The toe post and V-shaped strap combination is a signature part of flip flop design, but the style of the straps can vary a lot too. For a chic, laidback look, go for wide, cross straps made from leather or fabric. Plaited or padded straps keep it current and on-trend while ensuring your feet stay comfortable.
Looking for something less beachy and more evening-ready? Bring some sophistication to your feet with diamante straps or other glitzy additions. If you struggle to keep flip flops on, consider wrap-around straps which keep your feet firmly in place while looking feminine and elegant.
For the ultimate summer footwear, discover your new favourite pair of espadrilles for women with us too!
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Teva Voya Flip Bar Flip Flops | ![]() | Bringing Comfort and Support Without Compromising on Style | |
2 | Havaianas Luna Flip Flops | ![]() | A Sleek, Feminine Design in Cobalt Blue | |
3 | Rocket Dog Spotlight Flip Flops | ![]() | Striped Aztec-Style Flip Flops Perfect for Sun, Sea and Sand | |
4 | FitFlop iQushion Ombre Sparkle Flip Flops | ![]() | Fresh, Funky Activewear With Surfer-Girl Vibes | |
5 | Havaianas Slim Palette Glow | ![]() | An Unique and Pretty Take On the Classic Havaianas | |
6 | Charles & Keith Padded Platform Thong Flip Flop | ![]() | Keep It Timeless With an Open Round Toe and Minimalist Design | |
7 | Steve Madden Nibble Plaited Flip Flops | ![]() | A Charming Pick From a Well-Known American Brand | |
8 | ARRIGO BELLO Soft Leather Flip Flops | ![]() | A Comfortable and Affordable Pair of Faux Leather Flip Flops | |
9 | Pateacd Bamboo Flip Flops | ![]() | Pretty Summery Bamboo Slippers | |
10 | Croc Unisex Literide Flip U Beach & Pool Flip Flops | ![]() | Superbly Cushioned Flip Flops for Those Who Are Always Out and About |
We're proud to feature all the big hitters in this list, and Teva has got to be one of the trendiest brands of the moment focusing on style, comfort and sustainability. Their Voya Flip Bar flip flops are incredibly highly rated and our number one favourite pick.
With a water-resistant webbing upper, Mush™ insole for built-in comfort and cushioning, these flip flops are sure to become your go-to pair of summer shoes. Perfect for an active lifestyle, the design is moulded to the arch of your foot, preventing slippage. The chunky sole and multicoloured textile strap create a cool, laidback '90s look too.
Creating flip flops since 1962, Havaianas are the experts and they've really refined their formula in the Lunas. Made entirely from rubber, the design is simple and stylish, and as a bonus, the wrap-around strap keeps them firmly on your feet.
The striking, bright blue colour and rope-like wrap-around style elevate them above the standard flip flops, so even those who aren't that into beach shoes are sure to love them. Of course, there are dozens of other colours to choose from too. Feminine, chic and all in all a great buy.
Established in California in the '90s, Rocket Dog epitomises the casual-chic worn by surfer girls, skater girls and women who just love to keep things cool and laidback. The Spotlight flip flops come in a wide range of beachy designs, but these striped Aztec-style slip ons are our favourite option.
The stripey fabric is made for the seaside and looks great against tanned feet, and the soles are chunky in all the right places. Comfy and cute, these flip flops are the ideal companion on a coastal getaway.
The iQushion Ombre Sparkles by FitFlop screams summer sun and surf, and will make the perfect activewear for when it's hot, hot, hot. The shimmering ombré micro-'crystals' adorning the strap are a pretty detail too.
Engineered with iQushion air-foam cushioning, these sandals feature impact pillows in the high-pressure areas of the shoe for all-day comfort. They're made from rubber that's waterproof and slip-resistant too – perfect for splashing around as the waves lap at your feet!
What would an article on the best flip flops be without featuring a couple of pretty pairs by the flip flop experts? For many of us, Havaianas are the go-to whether we're shopping for the warmer months, a holiday or just to have an easy pair to slip on and wear around the house.
These slim palette glow flip flops have the look of a pair of classic Havaianas but with a unique, pretty design of a shiny range of colours that you'll typically find in a makeup box for a touch of femininity. But as well as being pretty, these shoes are durable, non-slip and both heat- and water-resistant.
Charles & Keith is a brand known for serving the hottest looks when it comes to footwear and accessories, and these padded platform sandals have designer vibes without being too expensive. White is an incredibly chic colour too, especially with starched linens and light, flowing dresses.
The faux-leather V-shaped straps and footbed are both padded, for a comfy, cushioned feel that is less likely to rub. Open round toe and a thick sole brings a hint of '60s glamour to take you from an afternoon on the beach to evening drinks on the piazza. Current, yet timeless.
Starting at a factory in Queens, NY IN 1990, Steve Madden is one of the most iconic American footwear brands, creating designs that are youthful, bold and cool. These Nibble Plaited flip flops are a shining example of the brand and come in a gorgeous shade of lilac.
Not only are they cute, but they're comfy too, and the slight heel provides support to the feet while walking. They're well-made and crafted with care from rubber and faux leather, making them suitable for vegans.
These comfortable flip flops from ARRIGO BELLO are lightweight and beautiful with an elegant design and golden brown colour. Although, a selection of other colours are available too so you can be sure to find your perfect pair.
With a ribbed outer sole, it can help to offer better grip especially on wet surfaces to keep you from falling over. The outer material is made of high-quality PU leather to give a soft leather texture for a relaxed yet luxurious look and feel. Whether you're going for a casual or a more dressed up look, these can be your go-to pair.
For a unique pair of flip flops that will look cute on the beach, these bamboo thongs could be just the thing. The lining is made with tiny gaps in between that provides excellent ventilation for your feet during hot summer months.
With an open-toe style, all around the slippers is made with a canvas lace and pretty petal pattern design. Besides being non-slip, it is created to be sound absorbing so that there isn't any noise when you're walking.
Croc designs aren't the most stylish, but they are designed to be ultra comfortable that you can wear them all day, no matter what you're doing. For this reason, we just had to include this extremely cushioned pair on our list!
This athletically inspired pair is lightweight and perfect for those who are always on the go as it can help you to go on for miles without any causing any pain or discomfort. Although it has many rave reviews on Amazon, style-wise, it doesn't really compare to the other options on our list.
No. 1: Teva|Voya Flip Bar Flip Flops
No. 2: Havaianas|Luna Flip Flops
No. 3: Rocket Dog|Spotlight Flip Flops
No. 4: FitFlop|iQushion Ombre Sparkle Flip Flops
No. 5: Havaianas|Slim Palette Glow
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