5 Best Thong Sandals Tested and Reviewed by Podiatrists

Thong sandals are no longer just a footwear to be used on your beach trip. Now, women who prefer a chic look wear thong sandals. However, with the traditionally made thong sandals, you can only get style at the cost of your comfort. That’s why the need to introduce an orthopedic option in thong sandals was felt. Podiatrists now highlight the importance of orthopedic sandals for women to prevent aching feet and various leg and back muscle issues. Here, you can explore some excellent choices in thong footwear and the key features that make them stand out.

What are Thong Sandals?

Thong sandals are a famous style of footwear. They have a Y-shaped strap connected from the midfoot to the toe area between the big toe and its adjacent toe. This classic design is known for offering a breezy, minimalist look while providing enough support for daily use. For your foot safety and comfort, you should opt for orthopedic thong sandals instead of regular ones, which are made using the same rigid materials and thin, flat soles with no arch support. 

Some notable brands that provide APMA-approved orthopedic thong sandals in the US include;

• Aerothotic
• Orthofeet
• Vionic
• PoweStep

Why Do Podiatrists Recommend Thong Sandals?

Podiatrists recommend thong sandals for females with different kinds of foot conditions, as orthopedic thong sandals possess certain features that are good for foot fatigue and other conditions. Here is a list of features a thong footwear offers to ensure comfort and safety;

Slip-resistant Outsole

Thong sandals have a firm sole that usually offers slip resistance. This way, people who have trouble maintaining balance can prevent themselves from falling. It also makes walking easier on uneven or hard surfaces. 

Arch Support

Arch support is the most significant feature of orthopedic footwear. Its curvy upper sole effectively wraps around your feet' natural curves, improving comfort. Also, people with flat feet or other foot conditions can relieve pain and strengthen their foot structure due to the built-in arch support. 

Significant Cushioning

Orthopedic thong sandals are designed to offer comfort and relieve foot pain. Their contoured footbed and padded surface offer significant cushioning to absorb shocks and reduce or alleviate fatigue or muscle pain caused by foot problems or long walks. 

Lightweight

They are built with lightweight and breathable material, making them ideal for sensitive skin. Due to their ease of walking, they can be considered your go-to travel partner. 

Cork Footbed

Corlk footbed makes thong sandals ideal for a custom fit. They fit amazingly in feet of different sizes and structures, and this true-to-size fitting is suitable for a secure grip. 

Stable Midsole

A firm midsole ensures your feet stay balanced with every step. It helps prevent overextension of foot muscles and offers additional support for those with calf tightness or posture issues.

Things to Look for While Buying Thong Sandals

Finding the right female thong sandals can make a big difference in everyday comfort, especially for those who need more than just a stylish pair. Whether you're shopping for thong sandals for women to wear casually or on long walks, a few prominent aspects should always be on the checklist.

Budget Friendly

While many women's thong sandals are expensive, plenty of affordable options don’t compromise comfort, support, or quality. Always compare features before paying extra.

Good for Travelling

Lightweight and compact, women's thong sandals make excellent travel companions. Look for pairs with cushioned soles, flexible straps, and slip-resistant bottoms that offer comfort on long walking tours.

APMA-Approved

Footwear certified by the APMA is tested for foot health benefits. Choosing APMA-approved women's thong sandals means selecting footwear designed to support foot structure, improve alignment, and reduce fatigue.

Material Quality

Whether leather, PU, or breathable foam, the material quality determines durability and comfort. Soft inner linings prevent chafing, while water-resistant uppers help dry your feet during warm-weather wear. Always check the material before investing in thong sandals for women.

Adjustable

Many female thong sandals now come with Velcro straps, elastic inserts, or buckles that offer a personalized fit. Adjustable features are significant for women with wide feet, swelling, or foot conditions like plantar fasciitis.

Best Thong Sandals for Women

Here is a list of some of the best orthopedic thong sandals that Aerothotic offers from which you can choose based on your requirement;

Aerothotic Eden Non-Slip Comfortable Thong Sandals for Women

Eden's Non-slip comfortable thong sandal is an excellent pick for women who love trendy footwear. These sandals are available in different colors, with some notable options including black, brown, lilac, pink, and turquoise. Due to their elegant appearance, black thong sandals can be worn as semi-formal footwear. This durable option is a must-have for your wardrobe due to its suitability for different seasons. 

Here are some quick features of this amazing thong sandals;

• Its 3.5-inch width offers significant room to adjust your feet, particularly for people with swollen or problematic foot conditions. 
• An arch support that can adjust well for people with medium arches, preventing foot and back pain. 
• The 0.7-inch heel height provides a balanced and stable walk and is suitable for relaxing tightened calf muscles. 
• This lightweight pair prevents foot fatigue, facilitating long walks without causing discomfort. 
• Inner lining is water-resistant, keeping your feet dry and preventing irritation in sweaty weather.

Who Should Pick It?

Such features are good to go for people having a range of foot conditions, such as;

• Plantar fasciitis
• Edema
• Flat feet
• People with medium arches
• Frequent calf muscle tightness
• General fatigue in feet and legs

Aerothotic-Glynis Comfortable Casual Thong Women’s Walking Sandals

The Glynis casual thong Women’s sandals are stylish yet ideal for women who want comfort without compromising trendy looks. The glittery straps add a fashionable touch, while the Velcro closure ensures a secure and adjustable fit. Available in lovely shades like brown, grey, soft pink, and black, these sandals offer both form and function for warmer seasons like spring, summer, and fall. 

Look at some key features that make it a good choice for people with certain foot conditions.

• The deep heel cup offers a secure grip to the hindfoot, promoting better balance and posture.
• A 1-inch heel height eases pressure on the lower legs and adds a subtle lift for calf support.
• Designed with a thick, stable outsole and grippy U-shaped treads for solid traction on varied surfaces.
• It features impressive arch support and is ideal for medium arches. It is excellent for easing discomfort during long walks.
• Due to its lightweight design of around 0.39 lbs, you may consider wearing it all day without the risk of stressing your leg muscles.

Who Should Pick It?

You can consider it a nice option if you are facing any of the following;

• Wide feet
• Feet with swollen toes
• Plantar fasciitis
• Instable hindfoot
• Aching midfoot
• Women looking to wear stylish orthopedic thong sandals can also try this

Aerothotic-Mairin Women’s Comfortable Sandal

Mairin Women’s Comfortable Thong Sandal combines a refined outlook with everyday comfort. With quilted satin straps and flawless stitching, this pair blends elegance with everyday function. Whether running casually or enjoying a summer stroll, the lightweight and podiatrist-approved design ensures a stable walk and pain-free wear. You may use thoughtfully designed footwear as your go-to option both in summer and spring. 

Here are the key features that make it suitable for being an orthopedic thong sandal;

• The cushioned footbed with circular patterns gives light toe reflex support and better grip.
• Medium arch support is carefully designed to promote foot alignment and reduce pain from long-standing or walking.
• This, too, has a wider build, making it a good option for feet with more width or swollen feet without making you feel tight or irritated. 
• It offers a deep heel cup where your swollen or aching heel can comfortably sit with a stable grip.
• A slight heel of around 1 inch provides extra support while walking, adding stability during long walks. 
• The flexible upper body, curvy midsole, and significant arch support offer a custom and true-to-size fitting. 

Who Should Pick It?

People can opt for this footwear if they;

• Looking for a good footwear with a supportive arch. 
• Have initial symptoms of plantar fasciitis
• Do long walks
• Suffering from persistent foot fatigue

Aerothotic-Coral Slingback Sandal

If a stylish upgrade is on the checklist, Coral slingback thong sandals make an easy pick for women looking to refresh their wardrobe. With its fashionable design and snug ankle Velcro strap, this sandal combines casual elegance with reliable support. Available in black, navy, and grey, Coral is that versatile pair that goes well with a range of outfits for spring, summer, or mild fall days.

Look at the key features of this fabulous slingback sandal to make an informed choice.

• Built-in high arch support is ideal for arch-conscious women, helping reduce standard arch and heel pain.
• A moderate heel height of 0.75 inches encourages a balanced walk and offers gentle relief for strained calf muscles.
• The breathable foam upper keeps the foot cool and irritation-free in warm weather, making it a good fit for people with sensitive skin. 
• Deep heel cup accommodates the hindfoot, providing stability and secure grip during movement. 
• The PU outsole has a wavy tread pattern that provides dependable traction on various surfaces.

Who Should Pick It?

You can consider it if;

• Your feet have high arches
• Frequent discomfort in the heel area
• Feel tight calves, especially after walking
• People with wide or endemic feet

Aerothotic-Clarus Women’s Walking Sandal

Crafted with a charming woven texture and padded inner straps, Clarus Women’s Walking Sandal offers a snug yet soft feel against the skin, making every step comfortable. Whether running daily errands or styling up a casual day out, Clarus brings comfort and elegance together in a lightweight form. Available in multiple colors, this sandal easily blends into your all-season wardrobe.

A quick overview of its key features below can help you decide whether or not it can be a good choice;

• The 3.75-inch width ensures ample space for a relaxed fit, making it ideal for women with medium to slightly wider feet.
• Textured PU outsole with a hollow U-shaped design offers exceptional grip and stability on various surfaces.
• It features built-in arch support suitable for medium arches, minimizing fatigue and reducing pain in the heel and arch area.
• Ergonomic sole with subtle circular texture enhances grip and adds a gentle massaging effect with each step.
• Memory foam-cushioned toe post ensures a soft feel between the toes, preventing irritation during extended wear.
• Designed with a gel-injected polyurethane midsole that adapts to the arches, offering lasting support and stability.

Who Should Pick It?

People having the following problems can choose this excellent footwear;

• Frequent soreness in the feet
• Medium arches
• Foot fatigue

The Bottom Line

Choosing the right thong sandals isn't just about comfort but also about finding what fits daily needs and personal style. A good pair should be easy to wear and match how one lives, whether for casual outings, travel, or relaxing walks. It also helps to break them in slowly at home before wearing them outside. Rotating between different pairs and cleaning them now and then can keep them in good shape for longer. Adding simple foot stretches or short massages at the end of the day can also support healthy feet, especially when paired with the proper footwear.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are thong sandals suitable for people with flat feet?

Yes, people with flat feet can wear orthopedic thong sandals. However, considerable arch support is crucial, so look for ones offering good arch support and a contoured footbed to absorb external shocks. 

Can you wear thong sandals all day?

Yes, you can wear thong sandals all day, but make sure they offer extra cushioning, excellent arch support, lightweight, breathable, and comfy material to avoid irritation or foot tightening. 

What kind of thong sandals should people with sensitive skin choose?

People with sensitive skin should choose thong sandals made of soft, breathable, and non-abrasive materials. Options with padded toe posts, moisture-wicking linings, and hypoallergenic fabrics can help prevent irritation and blisters.

For how long do a pair of good thong sandals last?

A durable and well-built pair of thong sandals can last up to a year if used frequently. It usually depends on the material used, care, and how often we use them. They can last up to two years or longer if used less frequently. 

How do thong sandals differ from flip flops?

Thong sandals usually offer more structure and support than flip-flops. While flip-flops are typically flat and casual, thong sandals often have cushioned footbeds, arch support, and durable outsoles suitable for all-day wear and walking.