Discover the history of the infamous flip flops, a summer shoe that is more of a lifestyle than simple beachwear.

Flip flops are one of the simplest forms of footwear in the world. They are popular with beachgoers, vacationers, the military and people looking for inexpensive footwear. They are constructed using a simple rubber sole with a Y shaped thong that slips between your toes. With a price of around a dollar, it is no wonder why this form of footwear is popular, however, there is more to this shoe that first meets the eye.

History of the Flip Flops

Modern-day flip flops are an evolution of a traditional Japanese sandal called the zori. These sandals had a woven sole and were used for basic footwear. The idea for the modern flip flop most likely developed when servicemen returned to the United States, Australia and New Zealand from Japan after their tour of duty during World War II. The basic design was kept in tact until the late 1950s when a New Zealander named Morris Yock patented the plastic flip flop design that we know of today. However, there is still a bit of controversy over whether Yock should be credited with inventing the flip flop or whether the title should be given to John Cowie.

Practical Footwear

Flip flops have many practical uses. For example, in many countries with low GDPs, flip flops provide an affordable form of footwear that helps to protect the soles of people who would otherwise have to walk around barefoot. The military has also adopted the flip flop as a tool to help prevent the spread of foot fungus in communal showers. Gyms, beach showers and school shower rooms have also begun to recommend that people wear flip flops to prevent the spread of foot fungus and other contagions that thrive on the wet floors.

Flip Flop Pitfalls

While the flip flop is easy to wear, there are many hazards associated with them. On the mild side of the hazard spectrum is a high risk for developing blisters between your toes where the thong rubs. On the severe end are sprained ankles, which are a common problem associated with flip flop use.

After weighing the pros and cons of flips flops, it is easy to see that they work great for occasional use, but generally are not as a great full time shoe.