Havaiana Flip FlopsAre all flip flops created equal? This was the subject of a chat conversation I had with shopgirl_trang some weeks ago. I have a pair that I got from Walmart - a cheapie for $3.99. I wondered if a high-end brand for a flipflop would make any difference. I mean - what other high end feature can slippers have besides put a padding between your sole and the soil?

So when I saw some Havaiana flip flops on sale at Urban Outfitters (online and in-store), I decided to get some. I need it anyway, as summer has just started and slippers are a must-have for feet survival. I got a black one (classic choice), and a green one (my favorite color). Using it the first time - I was surprised by how soft yet firm it is. It provided some support in my sole, so every step, my feet kinda “bounced” back. No, this is not a good replacement for sneakers, but it is very comfy for slippers.

However, after a couple of minutes, I felt a stabbing pain between my toes. Upon closer inspection, there was an excess pointy plastic sticking out underneath where the strap meets. Now that is just bad design - and both of my slippers have it! I got scissors and proceeded to snip this annoyance and that remedied it. However, the stabbing did leave a mark on both of my feet, a reminder that despite its high price, the Havaiana is only slightly better than your average Walmart flipflop.

I also do not recommend doing long, brisk walks in your flipflops. There is no arch support , and eventually you will feel that strain in the balls of your feet and in your ankles. Haviana flip flops are comfy (minus that pointy plastic thing), but it didn’t convince me enough to say that I will be loyal to it forever.

Ferget it! But if you have some money to burn on flip flops, over to Urban Outfitters and maybe you’ll still catch it on sale ($14.99 regularly).

, , , , , ,