Reviews You Can Rely On

The 7 Best Flip Flops for Men

We chose 15 popular flip flops from brands like Olukai, Rainbow, and Teva, to bring you a comparative look at the best casual footwear out there.
gearlab tested logo
Best Flip Flops Men Review
Credit: Zach Lovell
Zach Lovell
By Zach Lovell ⋅ Review Editor  ⋅  Updated June 6, 2025
Contributions From: Jon Oleson & Matt Bento

Finding the best flip flops for you can make a world of difference, from lounging at the pool or hiking along the beach. The perfect pair should be comfortable and inviting to slide into for your intended uses, whether that entails social hangs or more adventurous flip flopping.

For 14 years, our testing team has pushed the best flip flops to their limits. We've put the very best options through trail hikes, paddle boarding, and around-town traipsing to help you find the best fit, comfort, support, traction, versatility, and style.

Our favorite men's flip flops are the Olukai Ohana. The Teva Mush II impressed us with their low price and high performance. Continue reading to discover the best for comfort and a great pick for a tight budget, as well as other options for various needs.

If you're looking for a little bit sturdier footwear, we've also tested men's sandals and top-ranked water shoes for men.

Editor's Note: We updated our men's flip flop review on June 6, 2025, to retest old favorites and include some new options.

Related: Best Flip Flops for Women

Top 20 Flip Flops

Displaying 1 - 20 (scroll right)
 
Awards Editors' Choice Award
Best Overall Flip Flop
Top Pick Award
Comfortable Slide Option
Top Pick Award
Best for Style
Top Pick Award
Best for Traction
Top Pick Award
A Great Option for Classic Looks
  Best Buy Award
Best Bang for the Buck
      Best Buy Award
Best on a Tight Budget
 Best Buy Award
   
Price $80.00 at REI
Compare at 3 sellers
$130.00 at Evo$114.89 at Amazon
Compare at 3 sellers
$79.00 at REI
Compare at 3 sellers
$60 List
$59.99 at Amazon
$70 List
$62.96 at Amazon
$64 List
$63.99 at Amazon
$34 List
$34.00 at Amazon
$44.98 at Amazon$59.95 at REI$120 List
$116.51 at Amazon
$45.46 at Backcountry$50 List
$34.99 at Amazon
$65 List
$65.00 at Amazon
$25 List
$24.99 at Amazon
$40 List
$39.95 at Amazon
$50 List
$34.99 at Amazon
$55.13 at Amazon$60.00 at REI$39.99 at Amazon
Overall Score Sort Icon
90
84
81
79
78
78
77
76
76
75
75
74
73
70
67
67
66
64
63
60
Star Rating
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
Pros Impressive arch support, great footbed traction, durable, versatile for dry or wet environmentsTop-tier comfort, moldable cork footbed, best-in-class supportUnparalleled aesthetics, quality leather construction, great foot security, made to lastIncredible traction, easy conversion to heel-strapped sandals, decent foot security, no drop footbedToe strap comfy against skin, molds well to feet, classic aestheticsWaterproof leather, very durable, quickly breaks inExcellent support, great style, variety of color optionsIncredible value, supple foot bed, friendly weight, quickly molds to feetCushioned, stylish, good arch support, vegan leatherExcellent comfort, easy to walk in, machine washableGreat aesthetic, molds to feet, very comfySuperior wet surface traction, great blend of style and performance, Top-notch durabilityDependable traction, accessible price, trustworthy foot securitySturdy footbed, excellent arch support, good tractionExceptionally affordable, great aesthetics, next-to-skin comfortComfy memory foam, approachable price point, decent performance around waterDecent comfort on a budget, classic slip-on style, multiple color optionsDurable, good traction, bottle opener on soleExtremely soft, light weightExtremely comfortable
Cons Heavier than most, high arch won’t work for allExpensive, not meant for waterNot great in water, less ideal traction on gravel, hard on the walletToe straps can cause chafing, minimal arch supportNot as supportive as competition, water submersion not recommendedSo-so foot support, leather quickly becomes discoloredLess ideal foot security, midsole too stiff for some, not meant to get wetTraction isn’t as dependable, rocks get stuck in outsole, less supportive than the competitionThin sole, light tread, priceyNot very stylish, bulkyLess secure foot attachment, less ideal around waterLess arch support, severe heel drop, under-built foot attachmentPoor aesthetic for town hangs, clunky feelStrap is loose, fairly expensiveLoose toe strap, minimal arch support, poor traction scoresFootbed can cause sweating, modest archesModest footbed molding, less traction than others, not great for submersionHeel "airbag" feature seems unnecessary, bottle opener is slippery if you hit it just rightPoor traction, relatively unstable, uncomfortable straps and toe blockTraction and durability is subpar
Bottom Line An exceptional flip flop model that offers support and durability across a variety of settings, from the beach to the mountain townThis iconic slide-in continues to be a leader in comfort for open-toed footwear, with a moldable footbed boasting a custom fitThis ornate pair of flip flops are among the most stylish sandals we’ve seen yet, just keep them away from waterThis amphibious flip flop offers incredible traction whether in wet or dry environments, and can be easily converted to a fully strapped sandalThis time-tested classic offers great looks and comfort without having to spend big bucksThese well-made flip flops are among the few in our review that are made with waterproof leather, offering performance and great looksThis robust version of the classic Rainbow flip flops offers a great alternative for shoppers wanting more midsole from their RainbowsBudget flip flops like these prove comfort doesn’t have to come at a high price, though we recommend keeping them off slick terrainThese pliable, cushioned flip flops will keep your feet happy from the boat to the beachA recovery flip flop for the gym or the pool that prioritizes cushion over fashionA stylish, suede slide-in that can handle the trail or a night on the townA robust flip-flop that excels in watery environments and is best for those with a more modest archA budget-priced option geared towards trails rather than social gatheringsWhile the creators of this flip flop are renowned for river adventures, you may want to relegate this one to more casual pursuitsIf price is a priority above all else, these bargain flip flops are worth a closer lookA very comfortable memory foam flip flop, we only wish it were more breathableA wallet-friendly slip-on that offers a classic aesthetic for a fraction of the priceA great, durable flop that will handle any terrain and can open your beerGood for casual lounging or potentially after event foot care if you prefer ultra soft flip flops and don't need much arch supportThis flip is completely focused on being as soft as possible underfoot, the result being a high level of comfort and low level of durability
Rating Categories Olukai Ohana Birkenstock Arizona... OluKai Mea Ola Astral Filipe Rainbow Single Laye... Reef Voyage Le Rainbow Double Laye... Teva Mush II Reef Santa Ana OOFOS OOriginal Reef Ojai Two Bar Teva Hydratrek Flip Kiiu Thong Sandals Chaco Classic Flip NeedBo NDB Sanuk Beer Cozy 2 Cushionaire Lane Co... Reef Fanning Hoka Ora Recovery Flip Reef Cushion Phanto...
Comfort (35%)
9.4
9.7
9.1
6.8
8.0
7.9
7.7
8.5
8.0
9.0
8.2
7.0
8.0
6.0
7.0
6.5
7.0
6.0
8.5
8.0
Support (20%)
9.0
9.5
8.5
7.9
7.9
7.4
8.5
6.9
7.0
8.5
7.5
7.0
7.5
8.0
7.0
6.2
7.0
6.0
8.0
4.0
Traction (20%)
8.1
6.5
6.6
9.4
7.0
7.0
6.8
6.4
7.0
6.5
6.5
8.5
8.0
8.0
6.0
6.1
5.0
7.0
4.0
5.0
Versatility (15%)
9.0
6.5
6.5
8.1
7.7
8.5
7.6
7.7
7.0
6.5
6.0
7.0
6.0
7.0
6.0
7.1
6.5
7.0
4.0
5.0
Style (10%)
9.1
8.0
9.6
8.0
8.2
9.1
8.3
8.1
9.0
4.0
9.5
7.5
5.0
6.0
7.0
8.5
7.5
6.0
3.0
6.0
Specifications Olukai Ohana Birkenstock Arizona... OluKai Mea Ola Astral Filipe Rainbow Single Laye... Reef Voyage Le Rainbow Double Laye... Teva Mush II Reef Santa Ana OOFOS OOriginal Reef Ojai Two Bar Teva Hydratrek Flip Kiiu Thong Sandals Chaco Classic Flip NeedBo NDB Sanuk Beer Cozy 2 Cushionaire Lane Co... Reef Fanning Hoka Ora Recovery Flip Reef Cushion Phanto...
Footbed Material ICEVA Leather Leather 60C closed cell EVA foam Leather Leather Leather EVA EVA OOfoam Suede EVA Rubber LUVSEAT PU EVA Memory foam Leather, cork Injection molded EVA EVA Foam
Sole Material Rubber EVA outsole, cork midsole Leather and Rubber G.15 Rubber™ Rubber EVA Rubber EVA Rubber and plastic OOfoam Non-marking rubber EVA, spider rubber Herringbone rubber Rubber Rubber Sponge rubber EVA Icon Herringbone rubber outsole EVA Rubber
Strap Material Synthetic Suede Leather Synthetic leather, nylon, and polyester Leather and nylon Non-marking rubber Leather and nylon REPREVE recycled polyester Jersey and synthetic Leather Rubber and OOfoam Suede, leather Polyester webbing and padding Synthetic nubuck Polyester jacquard webbing EVA Synthetic leather Vegan upper Synthetic nubuck upper EVA and jersey textile Canvas
Measured Weight (per pair) 18.7 oz 20.1 oz 16.95 oz 15.9 oz 10.3 oz 13.80 oz 11.3 oz 6.45 oz 11.2 oz 11.7 oz 22.9 oz 17.1 oz 15.9 oz 16.2 oz 11.0 oz 9.9 oz 22.1 oz 17.0 oz 13.0 oz 14.0 oz
Available Sizes 7 - 18 US 6 - 17.5 US 7-15 US 8-14 US 7.5 - 15 US 6-13 US 7.5 - 15 US 7-16 US 6 - 14 US 3 - 16 US 7 - 13 US 7 - 14 US 7.5 - 16 US 7 - 15 US 6 - 17 US 6-14 US 8 - 13 US 4 - 17 US 7 - 14 US 6 - 17 US
Animal Products No Yes Yes Not Specified Yes Yes Yes No No Not Specified Yes Not Specified Not Specified No No Not Specified Yes No No Not Specified
Percentage of Length as Toe Box 17.0% 17.7% 19% 18.7% 20% 18.2% 20.8% 20% 20.2% 22.2% 18.7% 17.0% 15.0% 17.2% 18.60% 17.3% 15.6% 15.0%
Measured Length 11.8" (size 10) 11.3" (size 41) 11" (size 9) 11.2" (Size 9) 11" (size 9) 11" (size 9) 11.3" (size 9) 11.25" (size 9) 12.4" (size 10) 11.3" (size 9) 12.0" (size 9) 11.8" (size 10) 11.6" (size 10) 11.6" (size 10) 11.25" (Size 9) 11.5" (size 10) 12.0" (size 10) 11.6" (size 10)
Length of Toe Area 2.0" 2.0" 2.1" 2.1" 2.2" 2" 2.35" 2.25" 2.5" 2.5" 2.3" 2.0" 1.8" 2.0" 2.1" 2.0" 1.9" 1.8"
Unique Features Quick drying lining, non-marking rubber outsole Moldable cork and leather footbed Fully leather-wrapped construction, canoe whiplash stiching on toe straps, laser etched designs on footbed No-drop footbed, includes accessory straps to convert to fully-strapped sandal, non-marking razor siped rubber outsole Moldable leather footbed, premier nubuck leather, double stitched Full grain leather upper, stich and seam free lining, non-marking rubber outsole, waterproof leather Double-layer leather, triple glued. non-slip outsole Quick drying toe webbing, fast molding EVA, very low weight N/A Machine washable, rockered sole, incredibly buoyant Non-marking sole, moldable suede, adjustable straps without buckles Tread inspired by frog feet, high level of traction on wet surfaces Herringbone rubber outsole, shock absorbing midsole Corrective footbeds, vegan construction Wide sole to accomodate wider feet Memory foam footbed Moldable cork and leather footbed N/A Early stage metarocker for ease of stride, moisture wicking toe strap Rebound footbed

The Best Flip-Flop Sandals for Men


Best Overall Flip Flop


Olukai Ohana


90
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Comfort 9.4
  • Support 9.0
  • Traction 8.1
  • Versatility 9.0
  • Style 9.1
Footbed Material: ICEVA | Weight: 18.7 ounces
PROS
Super comfortable
Excellent grip
Good arch support
CONS
Pricey
Heavy

The Olukai Ohana flopped its way into our hearts by being one of the most comfortable flips we have ever tested. Not only does it hug your foot like a sea glass slipper, but it held up well despite our rigorous testing due to its heft and durability. “Rather than deteriorating with wear, the Ohana conformed to my feet and continued to perform with style,” our tester remarked. With enough grip to keep you solidly on your feet, a comfortable footbed to provide support and a wide range of colors and patterns, you really can't go wrong.

The Ohana's use of dense and durable materials makes it one of the heaviest pairs we tested. That said, if you're looking for a stellar combination of comfort, support, and traction without sacrificing style, this shoe is more than worth its price tag. The Ohana is certainly not cheap, and we know not everyone is psyched to fork out the big bucks for casual footwear. If you want a flip flop that's a bit lighter on the wallet, take a look at the Teva Mush II. Its comfort is comparable to the Ohana, though it's not as supportive. For top tier comfort and support, check out the Birkenstock Arizona Soft Footbed. It may not be as stylish, but it certainly made our feet happy.

Read more: Olukai Ohana review

The 'Ohana stood out in our review due to it's generous arch support and incredible versatility, equally at home on the beach, by the pool, or hanging around town.
Credit: Zach Lovell

Best Bang for the Buck


Teva Mush II


76
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Comfort 8.5
  • Support 6.9
  • Traction 6.4
  • Versatility 7.7
  • Style 8.1
Footbed Material: EVA | Weight: 6.45 ounces
PROS
Best value
Next-to-skin comfort of footbed
Very low weight
Quick to break-in
CONS
Less inspiring traction
Rocks get lodged in outsole
Not as supportive as others

The Teva Mush II is one of the lightest and least expensive flops in the lineup, becoming a standout model throughout testing for its exceptional value. We first took notice of the Mush II when its soft construction broke in days faster than some of its rivals, offering more support than we would have thought for a minimal weight model, though something like the Olukai Ohana will provide much more stability and durability. The Mush II has a supple and inviting footbed that felt great for everyday use, though the constricting polyester toe strap took a bit of time to loosen til it was just right. Our testing team concluded, “The Mush II simply outperforms its dollar amount. It might not last as long as others, but our feet were happy in these all day, as long as we didn't get too adventurous.

Weighing a mind-bending 6.45 ounces, this is a pair of flops that can go with you anywhere as your open-toed footwear, whether traveling or backpacking. However, it doesn't have the best traction in steeper terrain if you're a more adventurous flip flopper. We found the Mush II to perform well in more casual settings, whether on a relaxed hike or walk with the dog, though smaller rocks easily got stuck in the soft outsole, “We never had performance issues with lodged rocks, but it was a nuisance” one of our gear experts commented. If you're needing a tougher and more capable pair, consider something like the Astral Filipe, which handled anything we threw at it during testing. While the Mush II isn't the most durable, it's a comfy pair that's a true bargain if you're shopping on a tighter budget.

Read more: Teva Mush II review

This model from Teva carries your dollar very far, with clean neutral looks and every-day comfort.
Credit: Zach Lovell

Best for Traction


Astral Filipe


79
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Comfort 6.8
  • Support 7.9
  • Traction 9.4
  • Versatility 8.1
  • Style 8.0
Footbed Material: 60C closed cell EVA foam | Weight: 15.9 oz
PROS
Top-scoring traction whether dry or wet
Converts to a fully-strapped sandal
Great foot security
CONS
No drop in the footbed
Minor chafing in toe straps for some
Not much arch support

For all-terrain adventuring with open-toed footwear, the Astral Filipe became our go-to pair of flip flops. Astral has become a leading brand in the world of water shoes, and their sandals offer the same dependable outsole quality with superior grip across a variety of surfaces, from wet docks to water-polished granite. Uniquely, the Filipe can be quickly converted to a fully-strapped sandal, with heel straps that come included, boasting unparalleled foot security in this class of footwear. While these don't have much in the way of arch support, especially compared to options like the OluKai 'Ohana, they offer a dense midsole and a zero-drop footbed. Our lead tester commented, “If traction is a priority, the Filipe should be on your finals list, especially if you don't need flip flops with the highest arches.”

The Filipe didn't provide the softest next-to-skin feel, with its toe strap causing some mild chafing for some of our testers with wider feet. Fortunately, those of our team with average and narrow width feet had less of an issue with this, but take a look at the Teva Mush II or the Rainbow Single Layer Premier if you're hunting for a more supple toe strap. While the comfort considerations are worth keeping in mind, these are incredibly well-made flip flops and our gear experts concluded, “The Filipe was the most trustworthy pair in this review for rugged terrain, whether wet or dry.”

Read more: Astral Filipe review

These were incredible for more rugged flip flop adventures, from cliff jumping to sliding down waterfalls.
Credit: Zach Lovell

Best for Style


OluKai Mea Ola


81
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Comfort 9.1
  • Support 8.5
  • Traction 6.6
  • Versatility 6.5
  • Style 9.6
Footbed Material: Leather | Weight: 16.95 ounces
PROS
Ornate aesthetics
High quality leather build
Excellent foot stability
Decent durability
CONS
Very pricey
Not meant for use in water
So-so traction on gravel

While we all can agree that style is subjective, the OluKai Mea Ola was a crowd-favorite for aesthetics. With a full-grained all-leather design and a canoe whiplash stitching in the toe straps, these flip flops are simply eye-catching. Depending on the dress code, we were even able to wear the Mea Ola in more formal settings with slacks. The best part? These are also among the most comfortable models we've tested, with a generous arch support that fit a wide variety of feet. These premium flip flops unfortunately do also come at a premium price, so take a look at the Reef Voyage Le for a quality leather style that won't strain the wallet. The testing crew concluded, “The Mea Ola is a stunning pair of flip flops that still offer all-day comfort, proving function and fashion can co-exist.”

The Mea Ola has a fully leather-wrapped design, making their outsoles less ideal on more gravel-laden trails. The rubber lugs did offer great traction on surfaces like docks, pavement, and rock slabs, but in chunkier terrain the leather outsole made contact with the ground and caused some slipping. It's cousin, the OluKai 'Ohana is a great alternative that also does much better in wet environments. As our flip flop experts shared, “All-leather flip flops like the Mea Ola aren't made for extended contact with the water, so make sure you determine where your flip flops will be worn before making a decision.” If these are in your budget and you prioritize comfort in style, take a close look at the Mea Ola as your next pair of flip flops.

Read more: OluKai Mea Ola review

We loved the looks of the Mea Ola and, more importantly, enjoyed their all-day comfort.
Credit: Zach Lovell

Best on a Tight Budget


NeedBo NDB


67
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Comfort 7.0
  • Support 7.0
  • Traction 6.0
  • Versatility 6.0
  • Style 7.0
Footbed Material: EVA | Weight: 11 ounces
PROS
Wide footbed
Bargain basement price
Many styles
CONS
Traction isn't great
Not as versatile
Less durable

It's rare to find a bargain basement flip flop that will hold up to any abuse, but the NeedBo NDB is just that. While these certainly don't have the durability of the burlier models in this review, they are pretty comfortable and worlds better than your average cheapo flip. They will surely hold up for your next vacation, and if you lose them, it's not that big of a deal because they cost about as much as taking your significant other out on a cheap date.

While the NeedBo is surprisingly good, there are some clear downsides to purchasing a budget flip flop. The lightweight materials are bound to break down quicker than other more durable options, such as dense rubber or leather. Our main tester said, “The nylon toe post is not as soft as the posts on shoes like the Olukai Ohana, and it just wasn't as comfortable to wear for long distances.” Also, the footbed is a bit slippery when wet. Taking all that into account, you could realistically purchase three pairs of NeedBo's for the cost of most others in this review. So, if cost is your primary factor, these popularly priced slippers will do the trick. If you're looking for a bit more traction, the Kiiu Thong Sandals are worth considering. They aren't great for social gatherings, but they are comfortable.

The NeedBo is a great budget flip-flop with multiple pattern and color options.
Credit: Zach Lovell

Read more: NeedBo NDB review

A Great Option for Classic Looks


Rainbow Single Layer Premier


78
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Comfort 8.0
  • Support 7.9
  • Traction 7.0
  • Versatility 7.7
  • Style 8.2
Footbed Material: Leather | Weight: 10.3 ounces
PROS
Timeless looks
Supple and comfy toe strap
Decent molding to foot
CONS
Not the most supportive
Not great for extended time in water

It's hard to beat the style of a classic flip flop like the Rainbow Single Layer Premier. This timeless mainstay in the world of flip flops has been reliably made for years, with a leather construction and iconic aesthetic creating a nearly cult-like following. After about a week of wearing these, we found the molding to make these very comfy and almost felt like custom-fitted flip flops. While the Single Layer doesn't offer as much in the way of support, its more robust sibling, the Rainbow Double Layer Arch Support, is a great alternative if needing a more heavy-duty midsole. Our team summarized, “Models like the Rainbow Single Layer are a great reminder that classics are classic for a reason. These are simple, no-frills flip flops for the shopper who appreciates their looks.”

While we appreciated the leather style of the Rainbow Single Layer Premier, these aren't meant to be submerged in water for prolonged periods of time. As is the case with most leather sandals that aren't specially treated, getting the Rainbows soaked is likely to cause permanent damage. Our testing team shared, “Getting leather wet pulls the natural oils out, which leads to the leather drying out significantly, ultimately becoming stiff and brittle.” If you do need to take your flops on more watery adventures, consider the OluKai 'Ohana or the bargain-priced Teva Mush II. If the setbacks of the Rainbow Single Layer Premier aren't deal-breakers for you, these flip flops are well worth your consideration…their time-tested looks are likely to stay in style.

Read more: Rainbow Single Layer Premier review

This model from Rainbow is a timeless classic for a reason. It's stylish, simple, and offers great next-to-skin comfort.
Credit: Zach Lovell

Comfortable Slide Option


Birkenstock Arizona Soft Footbed


84
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Comfort 9.7
  • Support 9.5
  • Traction 6.5
  • Versatility 6.5
  • Style 8.0
Footbed Material: Leather | Weight: 20.12 ounces
PROS
Incredibly comfy
Excellent support
Moldable cork footbed
CONS
Hard on the wallet
Shouldn't be used in water

The Birkenstock Arizona Soft Footbed is a version of the classic Arizona that reaffirms they're among the most comfortable footwear options available today. For over 50 years, Birkenstock has offered some version of this slide-in sandal, and they've rightfully stood the test of time, blending functionality and style seamlessly. “After just a few days of wear, the cork footbed molded to my feet,” our lead tester stated. This helped provide a custom fit that kept our test team happy even after long days on the go. This model within the Arizona lineup offers a layer of latex foam in the footbed, improving upon an already top-notch design by adding cushion in concert with the firmer cork material. The suede foot straps were effective in securing our feet, even in uneven terrain, and the EVA outsole offered decent traction in most of our testing settings. Keep this option on your finals list as a comfy slide-in that's both capable and fashionable.

The Arizona isn't meant to be submerged in water, and even the manufacturer strongly recommends keeping them from getting wet due to concerns with the integrity of the sealant and potential color changes. At GearLab, we still investigated this firsthand and found the footbed lost some of its suppleness, and the upper had some mild discoloration. Besides a few considerations, this footwear offers unparalleled comfort and is highly functional for non-water activities. The Birkenstock Arizona is one of the most pricey options in our whole lineup. Fortunately, you get what you pay for, and this well-constructed sandal is made to last. If this model is out of your price range, take a look at the Cushionaire Lane Cork Footbed. They have a similar aesthetic but fall short of the Arizona Soft's traction, support, and comfort.

These incredibly comfy sandals offer support in many settings, from the city to the trail.
Credit: Zach Lovell

Compare Products

select up to 5 products to compare
Score Product Price
90
Olukai Ohana
Best Overall Flip Flop
$80
Editors' Choice Award
84
Birkenstock Arizona Soft Footbed
Comfortable Slide Option
$150
Top Pick Award
81
OluKai Mea Ola
Best for Style
$140
Top Pick Award
79
Astral Filipe
Best for Traction
$79
Top Pick Award
78
Rainbow Single Layer Premier
A Great Option for Classic Looks
$60
Top Pick Award
78
Reef Voyage Le
$70
77
Rainbow Double Layer Arch Support
$64
76
Teva Mush II
Best Bang for the Buck
$34
Best Buy Award
76
Reef Santa Ana
$60
75
OOFOS OOriginal
$60
75
Reef Ojai Two Bar
$120
74
Teva Hydratrek Flip
$65
73
Kiiu Thong Sandals
$50
70
Chaco Classic Flip
$65
67
NeedBo NDB
Best on a Tight Budget
$25
Best Buy Award
67
Sanuk Beer Cozy 2
$40
66
Cushionaire Lane Cork Footbed - Men's
$50
Best Buy Award
64
Reef Fanning
$65
63
Hoka Ora Recovery Flip
$60
60
Reef Cushion Phantom 2.0
$50

flip flops men - we thoroughly enjoy testing flip flops, from hanging at the pool to...
We thoroughly enjoy testing flip flops, from hanging at the pool to questing up a mountain trail. We even take these flops into terrain not recommended for open-toed footwear to ensure our examination is as thorough as possible.
Credit: Zach Lovell

How We Tested


Before we wore any of the flips in our lineup, the work of this review began with market research. Each season, we look at over 50 models from various manufacturers before deciding on the strongest and most promising contenders to include in our review. Once we've narrowed it down, we thoroughly test each pair by wearing them through water, scrambling across rocky slabs, and through all manner of cityscapes. These warm-weather kicks got passed around to multiple testers for various opinions over several iterations, with key performance areas identified and scrutinized in the process. The result is this comprehensive review, which you can now use to get into a pair of comfortable and functional flops for yourself.

Our testing of flip flops is divided across five different metrics:
  • Comfort (30% of overall score weighting)
  • Support (20% weighting)
  • Traction (20% weighting)
  • Versatility (15% weighting)
  • Style (15% weighting)

For more information on how we test these flip flops, see our full How We Test article.

Why Trust GearLab


We've been expanding on our expert opinion of flip flops for many seasons now. Our lead testers include Zach Lovell and Jon Oleson. Zach is an IFMGA Mountain Guide, never leaving home without a pair of flip flops or sandals to keep his feet out of hiking shoes, ski boots, or climbing shoes as much as possible. Zach began working in product testing over a decade ago and has collectively spent a few thousand hours assessing equipment and clothing across many genres. Jon is a farmer and nature lover who spends his days in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada. Jon frequently wears his flips to go between the garden, his favorite rocky river spots, and evenings on the town. Also lending a hand to this review is Matt Bento. Matt was a member of Yosemite Search and Rescue for several action-packed seasons. Before that, he spent a lot of time on the road, driving all over the US to different climbing destinations, usually with flip flops on his feet.

We flip and flop our way up all kinds of surfaces to find the most...
We flip and flop our way up all kinds of surfaces to find the most versatile and comfortable options.
A picture is worth at least several hundred words. These flip flops...
A picture is worth at least several hundred words. These flip flops look good even on our model, sasquatch.
The Phantom is excellent for a bit of foot relief before shuttle...
The Phantom is excellent for a bit of foot relief before shuttle runs up Mt. Lemmon.
We take flip flop testing seriously. We also enjoy every minute of it.

Analysis and Test Results


Footwear is a critical point of interface between your body and the earth. The quality and comfort of the flip flop you choose will affect your whole body from the ground up. To help you zero in on the pair that best suits your body and needs, we have broken our review into multiple sections. Some folks wear flips from their bungalow to the surf break, while others bring them for critical foot respite during long thru-hikes. Regardless of where you fall on this spectrum, there are things that every pair should do well. Below, you will find a breakdown of the metrics by which we judged each model, making it easier for you to find the perfect match.

Worse Value
Better Value

What's the Best Value?


Value can differ depending on perspective, so we did our best to boil it down to a price-to-performance ratio. This round, the Teva Mush II stood out as the best value for our pocketbooks and the planet. This well-priced flip flop is made almost entirely from recycled materials and does nearly everything the other contenders do, just maybe not quite as well as the most expensive options. The Mush II has held up fairly to our rigorous testing despite being so light, though if you're hard on your flip flops these won't last quite as long. One more upside: this flip is super buoyant, so you won't lose them if they fly off the boat while you're bumpin' through the waves.

flip flops men - the mush ii proved that performance doesn't have to always come at a...
The Mush II proved that performance doesn't have to always come at a price.
Credit: Zach Lovell

Truth be told, there is a lot of value found in almost every pair we tested. For example, the OluKai Ohana slips are so comfortable and durable that it isn't unreasonable to expect them to last many, many seasons if not a lifetime. When couched in this light, these expensive flippers may be worth the investment.

flip flops men - the olukai 'ohana flip flops will last through many miles and many...
The Olukai 'Ohana flip flops will last through many miles and many adventures, which increases the value if you consider the durability.
Credit: Jon Oleson

If you don't need a super high-performing option, the NeedBo NDB is a fantastic bargain-basement choice. Having tested them now in several separate cohorts, we can safely say these are surprisingly good. They break in nicely and offer a lot of comfort for the price of a classy burger and fries.

flip flops men - these can be found for significantly less than the retail price...
These can be found for significantly less than the retail price listed. If you're into “dirt” cheap flip flops that perform quite well, the NeedBo NDB is an excellent choice.
Credit: Jon Oleson

While the iconic Birkenstock Arizona offers excellent quality, they come at a sometimes prohibitive price. While we feel they still give great value, there's a budget option to consider. The Cushionaire Lane Cork Footbed is nearly a third of the price and has a great aesthetic. These wallet-friendly slip-ons aren't as comfy as their more expensive cousin, but if price is a priority, this might be a great choice for you.

flip flops men - the cushionaire lane offers a cork and genuine leather footbed at a...
The Cushionaire Lane offers a cork and genuine leather footbed at a much lower price than the Birkenstock.
Credit: Zach Lovell

Types of Flip Flops


Throughout this review, we'll use the terms flip flop and sandal interchangeably, given that either term describes open-toed footwear. A traditional flip flop uses a piece of fabric/material between the big and secondary toes to attach the foot to the footbed. We also include slide-in sandals/flip flops in this review, where lateral straps are used to secure the foot instead of a between-the-toes thong. Which type is better? It solely comes down to personal preference and intended use. We've included slide-in options in this review in case that ultimately sounds like a more appropriate option for you and your needs.

flip flops men - which type of flip flop is best depends on your needs and preferences.
Which type of flip flop is best depends on your needs and preferences.
Credit: Zach Lovell

If you've only experienced the bargain bin version of flip flops or sandals from the beach store, prepare yourself for a veritable cornucopia: sporty models, casual contenders, stylish pairs, ones that are comfy out of the box, and ones that take a while to break in (but are worth it). They are constructed from diverse materials, including rubber polymers, foam, nylon, leather, and plastic. Some are lightweight and cheaper, thus less durable. Others are burly and rugged, built to last, and their price tag reflects that. Regardless of where they fall on the spectrum, we chose them because we felt they were sandals that fit our criteria of being diverse and able to accommodate various needs.

flip flops men - it can be daunting to sift through the countless number of flip...
It can be daunting to sift through the countless number of flip flops available on the market today, rest easy knowing we've created a palatable list of options for you.
Credit: Zach Lovell

Comfort


Because everyone has different wants, needs, and radically different feet, comfort is a highly subjective category. Regardless of the subjectivity, we felt that this metric was the most critical of all, and it is weighted accordingly. If your flip flops don't feel good, you're not going to wear them, and isn't that the whole point?


We made a point to assess comfort straight out of the box and how each shoe felt after some break-in time. The Birkenstock Arizona Soft Footbed utilizes moldable leather and cork to create long-lasting comfort and support. In this version of the Arizona, latex foam makes these even comfy out of the box.

The Arizona is a long-running option from Birkenstock that offers support for all three arches in the foot.
Credit: Zach Lovell

The Olukai Ohana was decent right away but became even more comfortable throughout several hikes, thanks to its compression-molded EVA footbed. This ability to mold to the foot, combined with solid construction and durable materials, means increased comfort and personalization over time. The Reef Cushion Phantom 2.0 also impressed us all around and immediately felt good on our feet, with a nice blend of soft cushion and arch support.

The 'Ohana's sturdy sole offers excellent support on uneven ground, atleast for a flip-flop.
Credit: Zach Lovell

Another standout option that scored well in this metric was the OluKai Mea Ola, which offers a sculpted footbed and a mid-height arch that worked well for a variety of arch needs. With a slightly lower arch than the Mea Ola, the Rainbow Double Layer Arch Support offers a nice leather footbed that molds well to the feet, though it took about a week to break in. If you're wanting shorter break-in times, the Teva Mush II is a great and inexpensive choice.

flip flops men - these rainbows held their own in this metric, thanks in part to...
These Rainbows held their own in this metric, thanks in part to their moldable footbeds.
Credit: Zach Lovell

The OOFOS OOriginal also stood out in the comfort metric, with an incredibly squishy cushion and a rockered outsole making us feel like we were practically walking on clouds. With a similarly thick sole, the Hoka Ora Recovery Flip was comfy to wear, especially (as its name implies) as a recovery sandal after a long day on the feet.

flip flops men - whether wet or dry, the rockered and cushioned sole of the oofos...
Whether wet or dry, the rockered and cushioned sole of the Oofos OOriginal made for a very comfortable flip flop.
Credit: Zach Lovell

The next-to-skin comfort of the slide-in Reef Ojai Two Bar was unparalleled in our lineup, with a supple suede footbed and buckle-less foot straps. These had more modest arch support than others, but they were extremely comfy for our testers with minimal arches.

The Reef Ojai Two Bar is a stylish suede slide-in that also offers comfort on pavement or on the trail.
Credit: Zach Lovell

Some of the flip flops in our review with modest arches still performed respectably in the comfort metric, including the Rainbow Single Layer Premier, the Reef Voyage Le, and the Astral Filipe. While these all have some unique attributes to them, they all also prove that a low to no arch flip flop can still be comfortable.

flip flops men - the minimal arch of the rainbow single layer premier didn't...
The minimal arch of the Rainbow Single Layer Premier didn't necessarily prevent our testers from enjoying it.
Credit: Zach Lovell

Last, but not least, some might be wanting a memory foam footbed. If that's the case, we think you'll love the Sanuk Beer Cozy 2, though the memory foam doesn't breathe well and can get sweaty quite quickly.

flip flops men - the memory foam of the beer cozy was a welcome cushion for our feet...
The memory foam of the Beer Cozy was a welcome cushion for our feet after long days.
Credit: Zach Lovell

Support


If you've found yourself here looking for a pair of quality flip flops, you're likely in the same boat as our gear testers, who will often forego “appropriate” footwear for the comfort of a nice flip. What can we say? We're just laid back like that. Because of this, we went out of our way to use and abuse all the products we tested. We wore them down hiking trails, around slippery lakes and river rocks, and even in some dangerous social situations (where shoes would have been more acceptable). Don't judge us; we did this for you.


The dense soles of the Ohana were very well suited for any terrain or situation our testers threw at it. This option offers fantastic arch support and a comfortable, very grippy strap system. Like a fine wine, the Ohana also only improves with age. The Chaco Classic Flip offers aggressive, firm arch support that any old river rat will recognize as classic, though it really works best with narrower feet. While Chaco has put countless years into perfecting their footbeds, we wondered why they didn't put the same thought into the straps, which are simple and comfortable but loose in a way that allows the Classic to flip and flop too much on more technical terrain.

flip flops men - we found that the olukai flip flops had excellent arch support that...
We found that the Olukai flip flops had excellent arch support that kept them comfortable even on long trail days.
Credit: Jon Oleson

The Reef Santa Ana sports a supportive arch, and the cushioned footbed makes them comfortable for long walks on the beach or boardwalk. The one drawback is that the sole is thin — too thin to provide enough support for technical trails. Because of this, we found them most suitable for the beach or poolside.

With plenty of pliable squish, the Reef Santa Ana is a comfortable option for the pool or beach.
Credit: Jon Oleson

The Kiiu Thong Sandals have a very stiff sole, offering decent support in rougher terrain. When considering its wallet friendly price, this is a worthy budget option for adventurous flip floppers.

The Kiiu Thong Sandals' stiff sole allowed us to easily travel through rocky terrain.
Credit: Zach Lovell

Options like the OluKai Mea Ola also did well in this metric, with a healthy midsole and a well-shaped footbed keeping our testing team comfortable all day.

flip flops men - the mea ola has a great mid-range arch and raised footbed edges for...
The Mea Ola has a great mid-range arch and raised footbed edges for confidence-inspiring support.
Credit: Zach Lovell

Of the two Rainbow flip flops we include in this review, the Rainbow Double Layer Arch Support stood out more in the support metric, offering an impressive midsole.

flip flops men - while many shoppers aren't seeking more support from their rainbows...
While many shoppers aren't seeking more support from their Rainbows, the Double Layer Arch Support model is great for those needing more substantial midsole.
Credit: Zach Lovell

The Teva Mush II has a very soft construction, though it was more supportable than we first expected, thanks to a thorough break-in improving the arch height.

flip flops men - while the aren't the most supportive, the mush ii improved in this...
While the aren't the most supportive, the Mush II improved in this metric as we broke them in.
Credit: Zach Lovell

Traction


Some flip flops are made for chilling by the beach, stumbling to and from the bar, and back to your Adirondack beach chair, likely not requiring much traction. For others, occasional scrambling in the Sierras or wearing around the crag in between climbs demand a higher level of grip. Again, we wore each model in situations where we probably could have lost a toe just to help you, the reader, figure out which pair will have the necessary traction to keep your ankles as safe as possible. We examined the traction of the outsole as well as the footbed, investigating how secure our feet were in various situations.


The Astral Filipe truly stood out in this metric, with a phenomenal outsole construction and a very unique conversion feature, where you simply add a strap (that comes included) to the Filipe and it becomes a fully-strapped sandal.

The Astral Filipe was truly confidence-inspiring, whether crossing rivers or scrambling on dry rocks.
Credit: Zach Lovell

Knowing what environment you will be using your sandals in is key. Will it be smooth, wet granite boulders around Lake Tahoe? Or perhaps sandy shores or the deck of a boat? Whatever the environment, it's worth taking the time to match up your flip with your intended use. That being said, models like the Ohana are fantastic all-arounders that offer excellent grip in any situation.

The Teva Hydratrek excelled with wet traction, making for a great amphibious flip flop.
Credit: Zach Lovell

Several of the flops we tested have tread patterns made out of foam and, needless to say, do not perform well when the going gets tough. Others have monster truck-esque treads well suited for rocky trails, but that might not be ideal for the slippery deck of a boat where you need more surface area traction. When you need surface area to grip slick terrain, models like the Reef Santa Ana are well suited. The tread pattern is not ideal for gravel or mountain trails but performs as well as any other while navigating slick surfaces like algae-covered river rocks.

flip flops men - with a stylish, surface area type tread, the reef santa ana is more...
With a stylish, surface area type tread, the Reef Santa Ana is more suited for slick surfaces than steep or technical terrain.
Credit: Jon Oleson

The Teva Hydratrek Flip offers a very unique spider rubber outsole created specifically for wet surfaces. This design was inspired by tree frogs' feet and allows water to move throughout the outsole while still offering surface area to make contact with the ground. Their traction was dependable, especially around lakes, rivers, and streams.

The Cushionaire Lane Cork Footbed didn't top the charts in this metric, though its traction did improve as we broke in the outsole, with nicks and scratches in the EVA rubber actually offering better performance after about a week of heavy use.

flip flops men - once we scuffed up the soles of the cushionaire, the traction...
Once we scuffed up the soles of the Cushionaire, the traction improved, though it still didn't top the charts in this metric.
Credit: Zach Lovell

We loved the outsole of the Reef Voyage Le, with a unique tread pattern we felt worked on a variety of dry and wet surfaces, from sand to gravel to slickrock.

flip flops men - the reef voyage le has an effective and interesting tread pattern.
The Reef Voyage Le has an effective and interesting tread pattern.
Credit: Zach Lovell

Versatility


Some might argue that versatility in a flip flop is a bit of a misnomer, but we at GearLab use our flops hard, so knowing how they will perform in different situations is crucial. The ideal flip flop would grip its way up a Tuolumne granite slab, keep us comfortable on a trans-Atlantic flight, and not upset the groom's family at the next backyard wedding, all while keeping our ankles nice and airy. It's a tall order, but some options in our lineup delivered.


All the flips we tested are good in most situations, though some are more specialized in a particular area. If you are the type of person who owns multiple pairs, one for each occasion, this section may be less important. However, for those of us who don't like to change shoes, versatility is a crucial ingredient. To us, the perfect flip looks good enough to wear to a party, is sticky enough to scramble up a rock face while wet, and tough enough to last for years. This may sound like a stretch for a simple warm-weather shoe, but a few of the models we reviewed come pretty close, most notably the Ohana. This burly flip features grippy material on the strap and footbed, meaning that it'll stick to your feet in pretty much any situation — including running up a rocky hill when wet. It's also comfortable, highly durable, and very fashionable. The Teva Mush II is a ridiculously light pair of flip flops, only weighing 6.45 ounces, making them easy to bring anywhere traveling or backpacking

flip flops men - a pair of light flops like the mush ii are easy to justify bringing...
A pair of light flops like the Mush II are easy to justify bringing in the suitcase or backpack.
Credit: Zach Lovell

The Needbo NBD can handle a range of trail conditions and offer a sleek, simple style that doesn't turn any heads, but doesn't invite ridicule over your choice of footwear. The Astral Filipe won't necessarily be an eye-catcher, but with its ability to be converted to a sandal, it's an incredibly versatile option and is impressively capable option.

flip flops men - the astral filipe can be transformed in seconds from a flip flop to...
The Astral Filipe can be transformed in seconds from a flip flop to a full-strap sandal, making them impressively versatile.
Credit: Zach Lovell

The Birkenstock Arizona Soft Footbed isn't the most ideal option for wet outdoor environments, but it does boast amazing comfort for long days on your feet and an iconic aesthetic for evening hangs. Even though the manufacturer strongly recommends that you don't submerge the Arizonas, we still tested this ourselves. We confirmed these are best to keep dry, with the footbeds getting far less supple after we submerged them.

flip flops men - the birkenstock arizona has great versatility on dry ground, but we...
The Birkenstock Arizona has great versatility on dry ground, but we strongly suggest you keep these from getting soaked.
Credit: Zach Lovell

The Rainbow Single Layer Premier is another solid choice for varied terrain and situations. It's highly comfortable (both when brand new and with miles underfoot), provides decent traction, and is moderately durable. It's not quite as stylish as the Ohana, but the sleek, soft leather look will surely impress some. Just don't take this pair with you for your next water adventure, as the soft footbed tends to absorb water, and the leather takes a long time to dry. An option like the Reef Fanning may not be as stylish of a choice, but it's always ready to party with a bottle opener on the sole.

flip flops men - although they will go there, the rainbow premier leather slips are...
Although they will go there, the Rainbow Premier Leather slips are not well suited for water applications. They absorb water and become squishy, and take longer to dry out than the other competitors.
Credit: Jon Oleson

Style


Style, probably even more than comfort, can be a very subjective category and thus a personal choice. However, we can make some basic judgments on the style, or at least what the company was shooting for when they developed their shoe.


The flips we tested span the style spectrum from fine-crafted leather to rugged outdoor-specific models that look closer to hiking shoes than casual footwear. A handful of them make for excellent all-around flips — capable in outdoor situations and classy enough for a backyard garden party or even a wedding (depending on how formal it is). The Ohana is one such genre-bending option that effortlessly allows one to slide from the river to the dinner engagement.

flip flops men - style is subjective, but some are better for around-town hangs than...
Style is subjective, but some are better for around-town hangs than others, such as the Olukai 'Ohana, located at the front of the line.
Credit: Zach lovell

The Olukai Mea Ola is a particularly eye-catching model, with ornate designs and an fully leather-wrapped construction. Some of our testers were able to even wear these with dress slacks at more formal occasions, though wearing open-toed footwear to dressy events might not work in all states.

flip flops men - yes, style is subjective, but our testers' respective communities...
Yes, style is subjective, but our testers' respective communities all were big fans of the Mea Ola.
Credit: Zach Lovell

The Reef Voyage Le and the Rainbow Single Layer Premier both feature a similar leather aesthetic that's bound to work for many shoppers' styles. The Voyage, however, offers a fully waterproof leather while the Rainbow can't really get wet.

flip flops men - the reef voyage le has great looks and can easily go from the water...
The Reef Voyage Le has great looks and can easily go from the water to the restaurant.
Credit: Zach Lovell

We also loved the style of the Reef Ojai Two Bar, with gorgeous suede color options and a slightly different slide-in aesthetic from the Birkenstock Arizona. Without buckles on the adjustment straps, these have a cleaner look in this class of footwear that looked great in shorts or jeans.

flip flops men - the rainbow premier leather flips have a classy, natural look and...
The Rainbow Premier Leather flips have a classy, natural look and are super soft and comfortable right out of the box.
Credit: Jon Oleson

Conclusion


It is difficult to overstate just how many flip flops there are on the market today. Walk into any big box chain store, and you will have hundreds to choose from. Our best advice is to first ditch the idea of using those horrible-for-your-feet-and-the-environment disposable shoes and find something that offers support and will last at least a few seasons. This review is chock full of excellent options, with a few that are highly specialized for certain applications. If you've never had a pair of ultra-comfortable flip flops, you are truly missing out on one of life's great pleasures.

We've also tested a wide variety of footwear beyond flip flops, ranging from our favorite water shoes to hiking boots for men and the top men's trail running shoes.

flip flops men - there's nothing quite as good as enjoying the outdoors and letting...
There's nothing quite as good as enjoying the outdoors and letting your climbing shoe bunioned feet breathe!
Credit: Brian Martin

Zach Lovell, Jon Oleson and Matt Bento