Published August 4, 2008 10:05AM
Here's Why You Should Consider Ditching Your Flip Flops
A summer staple—in some states, you'll see them year round—may be causing you some pain. Here's what researchers found out.
As a Floridian, I live in flip flops, especially in these sweltering days of summer. But according to a new study by kinesiology researchers at Auburn University, for the benefit of my legs, I should reduce my time in flops and ditch my long-time favorites.
Auburn University scientist Justin Shroyer says, “We found that when people walk in flip flops, they alter their gait, which can result in pain from the foot up into the hips and lower back.”
Turns out, the more hours you spend in flip flops, the more prone you are to injury. And they need to be replaced just as often as running shoes—every three to four months. But don’t despair, researchers aren’t suggesting we give up sandals altogether. Just save them for the beach.