10 Flip-Flop Alternatives

I don't need a sunny summer day to tempt me into wearing my favorite pair of flip-flops. Year-round, in any weather, you can often find a pair of chanclas on my feet. The problem is that as we age, our feet physically change and they aren't as forgiving as they once were. Wearing footwear with little or no support can cause everything from knee to back problems. If you're trying to find a balance between your love of chanclas and your health, here are 10 flip-flop alternatives that are not only better for your feet, they're also a bit more stylish than your run-of-the-mill plastic sandals.

Chic, sophisticated and good for your feet, the Via Patent are made with a "super-cushioned, ergonomic Microwobbleboard midsole" which helps to diffuse underfoot pressure and absorb shock. Available in red or black.

Where to buy it: Fitflop.com, $130

Relieve heel, knee, back and leg pain by stepping into a pair of Fleur Toe Post Sandals which were invented by leading Australian podiatrist, Phillip Vasyli. A pretty flower accent makes it easy to forget you're wearing healthy footwear. Available in seven different colors, including mustard, shown here.

Where to buy it: OrthaheelUSA.com, $75

The anatomical footbed molding on Reebok ReeFresh Flip sandals add "comfort and better fit and function for women" while the foam footbed provides lightweight cushioning. The coolest feature on these comfy flip-flops are the straps which are designed to flip to whichever color you prefer.

Where to buy it: Shop.Reebok.com, $28

These cheerful multi-colored sandals by Crocs may remind you a little bit of your favorite pair of childhood "jelly shoes" but with a lot more traction and support. The fun rainbow-inspired flats are perfect for careless summer days.

Where to buy it: DSW.com, $45

The only problem you're going to have with Orthaheel's Tide Sandal is deciding which color combination to buy. As Orthaheel's best-selling flip-flop, all 14 colors (five of which are shown here) provide a supportive podiatrist-designed footbed with a deep heel cup to help stabilize and realign feet to a natural position.

Where to buy it: OrthaheelUSA.com, $60

These minimalist sandals with a classic triangle-shaped leather thong are perfect for day or evening wear. Pair them with a flirty skirt or a dark pair of jeans. No one would guess that they're biomechanically engineered to be good for your feet. Available in urban white (shown here), mineral red, tan, black, pewter and gold.

Where to buy it: Fitflop.com, $80

These Nike sandals are cushioned for a luxurious squishy feeling beneath your feet. I love the Miami-esque turquoise/pink color combo (shown here), but Nike's Comfort flip-flops are also available in black/neon pink, black/purple, brown/purple and grey/blue.

Where to buy it: DSW.com, $30

Eye-catching curvy patent leather straps and a silver buckle make this sandal a standout whether you wear them with a dress, skirt, shorts or pants. Feel free to wear them at the office, on date night, or while chasing the kids around—your feet will be comfortable thanks to the sandals' ergonomic design. Available in punch pink (shown here), camel or black.

Where to buy it: Fitflop.com, $130

The name of these sandals isn't just the result of footwear designers getting creative, these are actually handmade by one of Hawaii's only remaining original sandal makers. With leather uppers described as "buttery soft," how can you resist? Available in eight different colors.

Where to buy it: Footsmart.com, $66

With two elegant adjustable buckle straps and a leather upper, you wouldn't know by looking at these stylish sandals, but the Dansko Sophie slide sandals were awarded the Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association. Available in a wide variety of colors and textures including: Red moray, beige snake, black leather, black moray, black patent, black shagreen, brown, coffee swirl, iridescent blue, ocean, sand dollar and white patent.

Where to buy it: Footsmart.com, $116