Oofos Flip Flop Review

Oofos Flip Flop Review

A common question I get (especially in the warmer months) is: What kind of shoes should I wear when I’m not wearing running shoes?  During the warmer months, many of us choose flip-flops, but not all sandals and slides are made equally. Seriously who goes to the beach in running shoes?

Does anyone remember those flip flops from Old Navy that cost $1? Those aren’t going to provide any support or cushion. You might as well go barefoot. If you are looking for a supportive flip flop with arch support because of a foot injury (like plantar fasciitis), then Oofos are a great option.

Oofos Flip Flops cost around $60, which is more expensive than most people pay for sandals. I’ve had mine for over two years with no signs that they are about to wear out. Plus, the cushion and support of Oofos aren’t matched to many other sandals. So while Oofos is more expensive than many brands, the cushion, durability, and quality make it worth it.

So what are Oofos Flip Flops?

Oofos Flip Flops are one of the most supportive flip flops out there.  There is both cushion and supportive, which is something most flip flops lack. If you are injury-prone or your body needs more cushion, it might be a good idea to invest in a good pair of flip flops this spring and summer.  Plus, after a race, it’s nice not to put on another shoe and an open-toed flip flop.  Since Oofos makes slides, you can also wear socks and sandals if that is what you like.

I’ve written about it in the newsletter a few times, but wearing the right shoes outside of workouts makes a huge difference in how you recover.

I appreciate Oofos are waterproof so you can take them to the pool or the beach without worrying about them getting wet. I use Oofos a lot when I’m walking on the pool deck.

Oofos Flip Flop Fit:

Oofos sandals and slides fit true to size. Because Oofos doesn’t make half sizes, if you are a half size, I recommend going up. I’m typically a woman sizes 10-11 wide and the women’s size 10 fits well.

I have both the Oofos OOahh Luxe Sandal and the OOlala Luxe Sandal.  Both sandals have the same amount of support but different straps to hold the foot into place.

The Ooahh Luxe Sandal features a double strap across the foot. If you prefer something that doesn’t go between the toes, these are for you. If you want to wear socks and sandals, these are also for you.

The Oolala Luxe Sandal features a traditional strap between the toes. I’ve never had an issue with blisters or chafing from the strap. They were comfortable the moment I started wearing them and didn’t have irritation with either.

Oofos Flip Flop Ride:

Unlike my usual running shoe reviews, you aren’t running in Oofos Flip Flops but it’s important to understand how they differ from a traditional flip flop.  All Oofos sandals and shoes use “OOfoam™ technology.”

What OOfoam™ technology?

According to Oofos, it absorbs 37% more impact than traditional footwear foam materials.  This reduces stress on your feet, knees, back, and joints. The footbed of Oofos is very different than a traditional flip flop. It’s much thicker and molds to your body and feet. When you initially put on Oofos flip flops, you feel the extra support and cushion.

There is no break-in period, so if you are looking for a flip flop you can feel comfortable in right now, Oofos is a good option now.

The traction of Oofos is good. One thing that surprised me about Oofos was the good traction when it was raining.’

Realistically, how many people use flip flops during the rain? Not many, but I’ve had my Oofos for a couple of years now and have been caught in a few summer storms. They still gripped the ground well. This is also relevant if you are walking around on an uneven surface like the beach. You feel supported and now like you’re sliding around.

Finally, durable flip flops are a must.  I’ve had my Oofos for over two years and they aren’t showing any wear of breaking down.

 

Oofos Flip Flop Conclusion:
If you are looking for a comfortable and durable flip flop to wear outside of your running shoes, Oofos are a great option. They have both cushion and support and are especially helpful if you’ve had injuries in the past, such as plantar fasciitis. I’ll continue to wear mine when I’m not wearing running shoes.

You can purchase Oofos here and see more gear reviews here.

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Question for you: What is your favorite type of sandal?