Flip-flops only have one set of (often thin) bands connecting the sandal to your foot, which means it’s your foot’s job to keep the flip from flopping off! 🩴 Adaptations are made when wearing flip flops to help the foot cling to the sandal: 1️⃣ Increased contact duration when the ankle is in dorsiflexion, with reduced hallux dorsiflexion, to retain the thong during weight acceptance. 2️⃣ Greater midfoot plantar flexion during midstance (single leg stance) → gripping action to retain the thong during stance. 3️⃣ Wearing flip flops requires foot adaptations which, with prolonged wear, may result in muscle overuse syndromes for rear-foot dorsiflexors and mid-foot plantar flexors. The first contact in a natural gait cycle, like that attained in minimalist sandals, is the outside edge of the heel contacting the ground. As the rest of the foot nears the ground, it begins to pronate (flatten) to provide shock absorption, making adjustments based on the terrain underfoot. With flip flops, however, the gait cycle and how you use your feet is altered. The gripping action used to keep the flip flop in contact with the foot leads to excessive pronation, which can increase stress in the knee and hip joints, and create pain and problems throughout the body. Can you see the difference between flip flops and secure minimalist sandals? (or have you experienced it first hand!?) 👣 #RewildYourSole flip flops barefoot walking barefoot hiking barefoot and free barefoot therapy fix your feet barefoot freedom liberate your sole whole body barefoot foot freedom foot health foot health care foot health awareness minimalist footwear running sandals adventure sandals earth runners