valsma

I think it depends on the kind. If they are the plastic/rubbery kind that are absolutely basic for flip flops; you can feel the connecting ends under the soles. You also feel every rock or pebble that you step on.

I don't usually buy those kinds because I have bad ankles anyways and shouldn't even wear flip flops, but I hate shoes in the summer. I usally buy the thicker soled, leather strap across the feet type. I also usually buy them in the mens section. I would rather pay a little extra for a pair that sole and straps will hold up a little longer than a pair that are not comfortable to start with.

DogHouseMom

I HATE flip-flops for all the reasons you noted (I have a LOT of trouble adjusting to the bit between my toes!), plus the "thwacking" sound when I walk. It's irritating when I hear someone else walking in flip-flops (I honestly think it's rude to subject everyone to the sound of footwear thwacking against your foot). And it's impossible to walk fast in them (I walk fast with very long stride).

I have ONE pair that I use only for bathing dogs. I bathe them on a grooming table in the drive way and because I don't want to stand on pebbles I wear footwear, but I don't want my footwear filling up with water so flip-flops are perfect ... but I cuss at them every second I'm out there. I should look into getting a pair of crocks or something cause I HATE flip flops.

qbquilts

I can't stand any flip-flops. I can tolerate them long enough to use as shower shows when traveling and in public showers. That's about it though.

sall

Do not wear flip flops. Cannot bear the bit that goes between your toes, they really irritate my skin

mmdquilts

I started noticing it this year. I had stocked up a few years ago and just needed to do it again and it is very uncomfortable where the strap goes into the sole. I thought it was that my feet got fat until I saw your post so I guess it isn't just me.

Katia

I wear flip flops all the time, even in the winter around the house. You can not go by how cheap flip flops feel at all. I by mostly Reef brand, and let me tell you they are like walking on clouds. I get the kind with fabric straps and I don't even feel them. They do not make that flop sound either. They are expensive for flip flops, I think about 30 bucks unless they are on sale. But they last forever, even with daily wear. I only have to replace them about every two years.

All you flip flop naysayers, Go to Macy's or a good surfy type store and try on a pair. Trust me, you will not be disappointed. But do look for the plain ones with the fabric strap, they are the best IMHO. I am sure there are other brands out there that are just as good, but if they are less then 20 or 30 bucks they are not worth it. You get what you pay for in shoes, I think.

bodie358

I wear them year round and they only hurt my feet when I walk for long distances. (no arch support). Love them! Boyfriend, however, cannot wear them at all for the very reasons you stated - the place on middle of the sole, where the straps are located, just kills him. Crazy thing about it is I have very wide feet and his are extremely narrow. You'd think I would be the one in pain.

leiladylei54

LOL, I love this thread!!! Mostly everyone here lives in them all year long. But you're right, there are certain ones (or brands) that hurt the feet. I would imagine that it takes some getting used to but we grow up here learning to wear them from the toddler age. BTW, we locals don't call them "flip flops". We call them "slippers."

charity-crafter

I don't like them either. The bit between the toes really rubs my feet raw.
I wear crocs if I need to do something where I'll get wet. They aren't the most attractice shoes, but they are comfy and durable. Can't imagine they'll ever wear out.

Nanamoms

I LIVE in flip flops and have every kind imaginable, I think. But there are differences in every brand or kind. If I get ones with a hard sole, I can't stand them. I keep the Dollar store flip flops (yep $1) for wearing in the house. I have 2 pair of Crocs which I wear outside. The best ones I think I have are Yellow Box. They are a little dressier. I have some by Clarks and Nike but I hate Birkenstocks...never can get them broken in.

I do hate the "flip flopping sound" when I'm walking on certain floors so I don't walk as hard and it lessens the sound.

I guess I'm just a Southern Girl at heart and flip flops are the next best thing to going barefoot!!