No Flip-Flops?? Really??

People in Paris wear flip flops when it is hot. (It may or may not be warm enough in May.) I have done several photo links proving it. And of course tourists wear flip flops even more. Do you want to look as though you work in an office in Paris when you are actually on vacation there?

I don't even want to look like I work in an office when I'm home!! Thanks for the info. People who commented on fashion threads seemed adamant against flip-flops. I was just wondering if not those, what type of spring/summer footwear (non-office) do they wear? I'm not a sneaker gal.

I love seeing women with filthy feet..so please do it

And when you step in the Parisian dog poop , you'll know it righ away!

Well I live in London and I wear flip flops in Paris and have in Italy as well. Never even thought anything of it. I never understand these clothing questions. Why would Europe require a different dress code than anywhere else. If you use common sense...

And don't forget that there are people completely against flip flops where you live already -- do you consult them before you decide what to wear?

Flip-flops aren't the same thing as thong sandals...

I'm in my 50s, and would never wear flip-flops for a long day of walking, but I have a pair of thong sandals that I've happily worn to walk a couple of miles, and are quite "presentable".

~Liz

You are free to wear whatever you want. But - flip flops don;t work really well in the rain (and it will), your feet will get really dirty walking big city pavements in them - and you definitely need a pair of comfy waterproof walking shoes at that time of year.

There may well be some days flip flops wil work (although I have seen too many peope trip on uneven pavement or esclators and stub a toe at least) - but therre will be some days they will not work - so you must have another choice.

(I work near grand central staion and still remember seeing a family of tourists - in early June, in a torrential rainstorm - come out of the station. They were wearing tee shirts, cut off jeans and flip flops - plus large black plastic garbage bags as covering - and their legs were splotched with mud spots almost up to the knee. I guess they came from someplace without rain or chilly weather in the summer.)

I have never flip-flopped on this issue. Who cares what others wear.

Personally I wear my wing tips to take a shower, makes as much sense. And I too live in NYC and flip-flops to me say I know very little about city life for many of the reasons stated above including being trampled upon in the subway.

So...can anyone share examples of the type of shoe that IS acceptable in a city with cobblestones, poop, and uneven pavement? Sneakers aren't an option, and I would like something that looks attractive with skirts, capris, or jeans. Flip-flops or not, most spring/summer shoes have open toes, or are strappy, so I don't get how one's feet would avoid getting dirty, muddy, or splashed, regardless of what you're wearing. And sorry to anyone who feels annoyed with the question - I thought that was the point of the boards!

So, to sum up:

Your feet will be filthy.
Your feet will get wet.
When wet and dirty, your flip flops will "flip" it all up on to your legs/clothes.
Your toes will get stepped on.
The pavement/cobblestone is uneven many places, and your likelihood of tripping is higher in a pair of flip flops.

I am not a flip flop hater, but I find them sort of useless for trekking around Paris. Get a pair of closed toe sandals.

If you feel you must wear a sandal of some kind, it might be better to choose one that has an ankle strap to keep the sandal securely in place on your foot over uneven surfaces.

If you are traveling in May, I doubt it is really flip flop weather in any case. Pack them but be sure to bring other types of shoes. Paris can be chilly and rainy at any time of year.

Flip flops are for wearing in the shower or around the swimming pool or in the changing rooms at the gym.
Get some Keens if you want to be comfortable

I agree that May may not be flip flop weather, but heartily disagree with the naysayers. Some people like flipflops, some don't. Some people find them uncomfortable, some don't.

Personally, I live in London and I'm happy to wear flip flops from May-September when it's dry, including wearing them at work, on long commutes and tramping round my grubby city. I don't get dirty feet.

Why are sneakers not an option? I just returned from Paris yesterday and the old fashioned basic keds sneakers in many colors were on display in the shop windows for spring. This is the style that I saw on a lot of Parisians in the Metro.

http://www.amazon.com/Keds-Womens-Champion-Oxford-Sneaker/dp/B0015RBC4A

If this is what's for sale in the stylish shops windows I think you can wear them without expecting people to point and laugh.

c1thom - I am not annoyed, I just truly dont understand. What do you wear at home? You can wear that here as well. Think about what you would wear in NYC, and if its appropriate there it would be appropriate here.

I have worn flip flops for the last 3 years almost every weekend in London (plus for a week in teh Dordogne, a week in Paris, 3 weeks in Italy) and I have not tripped or been stepped on, nor have I kicked mud all up my legs hahaha. You guys make it sound hilarious.

Yes, you have to be aware of where you are walking, but its not nearly as bad as everyone is saying! If you wear them at home and you are aware of the pavement etc you will be fine.

Just be sure they provide enough support for walking all day.

My feet don't get dirty in flip flips in Paris during the summer, and nobody steps on me either. Some of you people have no luck at all.

I think jamikins people ask about footwear because American sidewalks are very even and walking on them in the cities is a lot easier, any shoe will do for the pavement in NYC. I know that I wear different shoes when I travel than I do at home because I want not only to be fashionable but above all I want to be able to negotiate the slippery, hilly, cobblestones safely for hours on end comfortably.

I wore "ballet flats" during my week in Paris last summer. I also took a pair of Pumas, that don't really look like traditional sneakers. It wouldn't have been warm enough that week (and I know Paris can be quite hot- but it wasn't when we were there) to wear strappy sandals or flip flops, and I don't pack anything I might not be able to wear.

The bottom line is you should wear what makes you comfortable.

c1thom: The problem with questions like this is that the answers reflect the answers personal options and bug-bears more than anything else. You've heard from a Parisian, kerouac, that people do wear flip-flops in Paris - anything past that is personal preference.

Myself I've never understood the idea that people need special shoes and clothes for Europe. I don't like walking much in flip-flops, I don't think they are very comfortable, but lots of people do - I assume from the question that you are in the pro-flip flop camp and yours is the only opinion that matters. I assume you have towns or cities where you live? I'd wear whatever shoes you usually do for a day walking around. Same with outfit matching, what do you usually wear with skirts etc.?

P.S. Contrary to a lot of guide books and forum posts 'sneakers' are allowed in Paris too.

The problem I see with flip-flops is they have no support for your foot. You will be walking a lot more and longer than you're probably used to, on rough, uneven surfaces. You need something with support. For warm weather walking sandals; I agree with ellenem, get a sandal with a strap around the back of the foot to keep it on. Then a closed shoe, also with support, for cooler, rainy weather.

Teva has some nice looking sandals. Keen makes young-looking closed toe shoes. Look at www.zappos.com or www.nordstrom.com for ideas. You can search for walking sandals or walking shoes.

Do churches and/or museums frown upon flip flops? I know shorts and sleeveless shirts can be an issue.

Celticharper - I'm with you. I wear flip flops and other sandals all summer in PA, everywhere I go. However, I'm not on my feet all day walking around a city and standing in lines on concrete. I'm concerned about my back holding up, my foot comfort, and, sad to admit, being slightly fashionable. So, no, my shoes that I wear at home wouldn't really work out while traveling. I've been to Paris many times, but I always go in November, when I can wear my cool boots! I was just trying to pick peoples' brains! Also, thanks for the tip on the Ked's. They look cuter than my gym sneakers. I guess I could throw a gel cushion in them, as they don't look to offer much support.

You have given me a great idea - seeing its so hot in Paris in August I am going to slide a pair of flip-flops into my case!

The most important thing is to wear something that is comfortable to wear for walking all day, over uneven pavement/cobblestones, likely in crowds, with changing weather. For most people, flip flops don't fit that requirement. Also, thong sandals are not necessarily flip flops. When you ask about flip flops most people tend to think of thin foam sandals.

Don't worry about standing out in Paris, wear whatever the heck you want. It's much more important to be comfortable than to try to match what the locals may or may not be wearing.

If you're looking for something comfortable to wear that matches many things, I've seen quite a few cute shoes by Merrell or Privo that would look fine with skirts or capris but would also likely be much better for your feet than sandals. Mary janes or ballet flats can be cute and comfy in many situations. There are also sneakers that don't look like typical bright white cross trainers and are great with jeans.

Whatever kind of shoes you want to wear on vacation, put them on and walk a few miles and go up and down a bunch of stairs. How do your feet feel? Make your decision based on how your feet feel and not how you think a bunch of people who couldn't care less about what a tourist is wearing will think. No matter how you dress you will still be known as a tourist, and that's not a bad thing. It's hard to appreciate a city when your feet are killing you.


I don't think people are annoyed by your question btw. It's simply the myth that travelers shouldn't wear flip flops or sneakers in Europe because the locals don't get's old. They DO wear sneakers and flip flops in Europe, and even if they didn't, so what?

"I'd wear whatever shoes you usually do for a day walking around." - the problem is that many people in the U.S. just don't spend their days walking around! Where I live the only walking most people do is maybe a half hour specifically to get some exercise, often on a treadmill at the gym. The rest of the time they drive. Until you've actually spent a day walking around a city sightseeing you don't realize how much difference good footwear makes!

After I fell and broke my wrist in Switzerland (in a town, not on a mountain!) I listened to my chiropractor and I take over-the-ankle hiking boots for support, but if you're younger that's probably overkill.

One other thing regarding the 'uneven side walks'. As someone who's visited London, Paris and a number of US cities ( inc. NYC, Boston and Chicago) as a tourist I can't say I've noticed much of a difference in overall pavement evenness. Certainly not enough to impact my footwear choices.

<<Also, thanks for the tip on the Ked's. They look cuter than my gym sneakers. I guess I could throw a gel cushion in them, as they don't look to offer much support.>>

And your flip-flops DO?

Actually - yes. They aren't the foam shower flip-flops that you'd wear on the beach. They are Dr. Scholl's with an amazing amount of arch and heel support.

Nothing wrong with flip-flops if you are comfortable in them. But if you want something a bit more "presentable" but still comfortable have a look at the new designs from Teva. I have just bought a pair of these http://tinyurl.com/ybclu2x. They are light - so great for packing, and incredibly comfortable.
Teva also have a fine range of flip flops and thongs.
Roll on summer

I have worn my Dansko sandals all over, including Paris, London, Venice, etc. These aren't clogs, they are a version of a "strappy sandal" but the sole is deep enough to get your foot up off the pavement (and most of the dirt). They are very comfortable and supportive for walking miles, and stable enough for the cobblestones.

http://www.rei.com/product/694636

They are out of stock at REI but most places like Zappo's and Nordstrom have them.

Mephisto also makes some nice dressy (not clunky) sandals that are good for walking.

If you like flip-flops, wear flip-flops. Most of the concerns here are vastly overrated. I know people that basically hike in flip-flops, yet some people want to make it seem as if walking around Paris is like the Bataan Death March.

I can't decide if these questions stem from insecurity (being so concerned with what others think) or arrogance (thinking that others think about what you wear at all).

hetismij - thanks for the link. Didn't realize Teva made such cute shoes! Thanks, too, to travelgourmet for the musings - such great input on the subject!

@travelgourmet, I think these questions stem from a fear of silently screaming "TOURIST" at all times. My number one packing concern is to be comfortable w/o bringing any extra stuff, and my number two is to not stick out like a sore thumb.

c1thom - I thought the flip flop thing was generational - i.e. my 20 year old daughter wore 2 (sturdy) pair for 3 1/2 weeks in France, Italy, London. Other than being denied entry to a club for wearing flipflops, she was fine. So really, you do need to try walking in them all day long to see if you are the kind of person who it would not bother. I've been picky about my shoes for a LONG time and also couldn't wear the cute Keds shoe shown by a poster above. So for me, I go with Ecco or Mephisto brand walking sandals - strap on the heel type, sturdy - and they have been fine for cobblestones, grassy paths, rain, shine and I can wear them with pants & skirts. But you should check the weather temps to see if it really will be sandal weather.

I agree that the Teva shoes are cute - thanks hetismij!

When walking a lot, at home or on vacation, I want more support than my thong sandels provide, and also more toe protection (I have gotten my toes stepped on, and it hurts).

I've had several pairs of Privo shoes, by Clark's. The model most like what I last purchased is called "Kulin." I wear them with everything, except usually not with a skirt. They'll probably have more summerish colors of that model in the next month or so. They're lightweight, cool, but offer sole support that I find useful on cobblestones.

For our last trip, in the fall, I got the Born Adele, which were more fall-like in color, and a little less sporty than the Privo, but still light and cool enough for the warm weather we experienced. I thought these looked good enough for pants and skirts, and provided plenty of sole support.

I am not a fan of flip flops, just my own personal preference. Along the lines of what enzian and hetismij posted, I took these sandals to Paris last summer and they worked great for me.

http://www.teva.com/ProductDetails.aspx?g=w&categoryID=425&productID=4254&model=Ventura+Cork+2+Rialto

I ended up wearing them every day (long story...I fell down some stairs and these were the only ones I could get on so easily every day). I did not feel out of place, but a couple times my feet were chilly.

Another shoe that I have taken a few times to Paris is the Naot Ashley. I really like that sandal and it is just as comfy as the Teva's. These have a few sparkley things attached, so it dresses them up a bit.

Love the Naot Ashleys! Thanks, mms.

When I was there in early September, it was "anything goes", so you won't really be out of place with whatever you wear, keeping in mind you'll be in an urban environment with lots of people, sometimes densely packed together (like on the Metro or on a bus). Meaning, the possibility is greater that someone might inadvertently trod on your foot.

I personally take a pair of sandals that can double at the beach and with a dress to go to a restaurant, so long as it's comfortable. I also take a pair of closed walking shoes (like Lands End mocs)for rain or cool weather -- they come in suede and look nice with either jeans or trousers. I had both and both came in handy.

It's very unusual for Parisian women to wear flip-flops, and one of the easiest ways to recognize American women in Paris is to look for flip-flops. On the rare occasions when a Parisian actually wears this type of shoe (on extremely hot days, for example, a few Parisians might resort to them), they will be much fancier than the kind favored by American women. In warm weather Parisian women may well choose to wear open shoe styles, but they will avoid flip-flops.

Nevertheless, you can wear what you want in Paris. People won't look at you askance for wearing flip-flops, but they'll know you're not Parisian, and they'll assume that you're probably American. (Granted, Americans usually give themselves away in many other ways as well, so this may not come as news to them.) There's nothing wrong with being recognized as a tourist, anyway, and it's almost impossible to avoid.

It depends on your definition of flip-flop. If you are thinking of plastic/rubber thingies you wear to the beach or the shower, then just wear them to the beach or shower in Europe.

I have worn Birkenstocks at home and all over Europe for decades, weather permitting. I wear them with socks -- nobody wants to see my toes! Birkenstocks have a half inch of cork built in and are the most comfortable things I have ever put on my feet. Note that they are about half the American price in Germany where they are made.

Anthony, Europeans everywhere have been wearing flip flops regularly in the summer for at least the last 5 years. Yes, they are often vacationers, because as I wrote earlier, flip flops are generally not a work shoe.

Kerouac -- you should repost your link to those photos from outside your window to show the OP and others what is actually worn by those who live there. It will certainly be an eye opener to some!

One other thing regarding the 'uneven side walks'. As someone who's visited London, Paris and a number of US cities ( inc. NYC, Boston and Chicago) as a tourist I can't say I've noticed much of a difference in overall pavement evenness.>>

they may not be any more uneven but if you're anything like me, you'll be looking around trying to see what's around you and not looking where you are going, which I how I came to fall flat on my face on our 1st day in Rome. and DD got terrible blisters wearing flip-flops when we went to Tivoli on a day trip on our last visit.

I bought some very substantial though smart walking shoes whilst we were in Rome, better than anything I'd seen in the UK, which leads me to believe that they give a high priority to utility as well as form. will wearing them at home mark me out as a tourist?

c1thom--The Naot's are incredibly comfy! I bought my first pair the day before we left for Paris. My mom had recently bought a pair and insisted I get some. OMG, they were like heaven! Mom and I both wore them all over Paris, and even with mine being brand new I didn't have any problems. I now have them in several colors.

If a person tends to trip and stumble when the ground is uneven, perhaps it isn't the shoe that's a problem....maybe a walking stick or cane is needed to stay upright?

I personally don't wear flip flops for long treks as they tire my feet out and don't offer good support but if you want to wear them, why not? People in Paris or anywhere, where just about anything. It's not biggie.

meant to say wear just about anything

//I personally take a pair of sandals that can double at the beach and with a dress to go to a restaurant, so long as it's comfortable.//

SurferGirl - what sandals do you recommend? I have a hard time finding some that are really comfortable and still look nice for restaurant dinners.

Well no -

There are all sorts of summer walking shoes - not regular shoes but walking shoes - that are not open-toed.

I often wert Skechers Mary Janes - whch come in a bunch of colors and are super comfy and resonably cute - plus one pair of dress shows for going out to dinner (usually either flat or wedeges so they are stable on uneven pavements). If you prefer there are a ton of all sorts of flats with comfy botomw in a host of colors or just closed walking shoes in a bunch of styles and colors.

@ kfoster -- what's good for me may be horrible for you. I just checked the sandals I wore on my last trip, and needless to say, there's absolutely no brand name. I like them in particular because they have velcro straps (so after a lot of walking and my feet inflate I can give them a little room); they have some height -- a couple of inches, but include a little height -- platformish -- at the ball of the foot as well so I'm not walking on my toes all day; and finally, it has arch support, since I have a high arch.

It takes a lot of trial and error to find something cute and practical that you won't be cursing at the end of a 5 mile trek! It doesn't have to be expensive, so long as it's black -- and I like them because I can even wear socks under them with jeans -- I also saw that look worn by students around the faculte.

I only wish I had been on a bigger budget this time round, because I got absolutely lost in Galleries Lafayette's shoe department (now located on the lower floor) and saw some shoes (and sandals) so perfect . . . .

At home and to the office, like NYtraveler's suggestion, Mary Jane's are my trademark, since they are great running up and down escalators and hoping on and off the Metro or Underground without the heel getting caught.

I googled, and they look something like these, not exactly, but close:

http://www.footsmart.com/ProductZoomPopup.aspx?scene7name=71320_BLACK

Let's get back to the original OP.
I wouldn't wear them but they are wearing them in Paris in the summer months, Why not?. We do here in any warm weather,
Cambridge/Boston

Thanks, surfergirl. I know shoes are different for everyone but I am always looking for suggestions. <g>

With regard to the original question, I think people should wear what they want but I personally feel more comfortable when I feel I am dressed appropriately. I would not feel that way in flip-flops, but then I wouldn't wear them here either.

We call them 'thongs' in Australia! They are almost part of our national costume!
However I will be leaving mine at home when I go to paris in June.

Another query in the "can I wear white sneakers? / coke with dinner? / can I drink the water ? / will I look like a tourist ? / where's the goddam ice ? / Waddya mean you don't take dollars ? / The French are always rude to me / why can't I rent a Hummer in Corsica and leave it in Greenland without having to pay a huge drop off free ?/ Do I tip ? / Where is the bridge from Paris to Newfoundland ?" genre.

Sorry !

I wear flip flops from around mid April to November. I've worn them throughout Europe, although I wouldn't wear them for an official function or important meeting.

I also wore them whilst driving the 66 and PCH without problem. I was even married in flop flops in Las Vegas.

So don't worry - you can wear flip flops in Paris. Basic versions are sold in every supermarket - more expensive versiopns are sold in shoe / fashion shops.

Peter

I have worn this type of sandal in Vienna, Hong Kong, the Swiss Alps villages, Lugano, Shanghai...etc.

Mine are 'Fit Flops' with a thicker sole and great support. The ones I currently take away are black with sequins - but subtle.

No one has stepped on my toes, I have not been covered in mud or dirt - and if there is a summer shower they are dry in a few minutes.

I can wear them for 12+ hours in absolute comfort.
I walk from my home into the city here - about 5kms - and then home again - and walk around all day - no problems at all.

BUT - this is my personal opinion and I always wear really smart casual clothes - not hiking gear in cities - but usually a dress or cut offs - just go with what you find comfortable and what makes you feel good.

Those colored sneakers look great - but they also look very flat and lacking support.


Have fun!

Depends on where your going also. I'm not a big lover of flip flops anywhere except the beach, sorry trying to dress them up just makes them look like flip flops with beads on them.
I would skip them if you plan on going to a restaurant. Outdoor cafe's cool.

Anyone can where anything they want, but just be aware that flipflops are dangerous for general walking, damaging to the structure and muscles of your feet and ankles, and no matter how many beads and trinkets you hang from them, they still look cheap, crummy, dirty, and trailer-trash central. Not to mention how unattractive many people's feet (most notably heels) are, especially when they gain a layer of street grime.

My first thoughts when I see someone, other than on a beach or in the fitness center showers, wearing flipflops is "Walmart, tatooed, welfare" and "there's another poor soul (or sole) who has given up on life." Of course, many people who wear flipflops don't fit this description, but it is what pops up first.

Most sandals generally have enough straps here and there to ameliorate many of these issues.

From CBS:
Summer is primetime for "flip-flops" (no, not the ones made by politicians!), but they can actually pose safety and health risks.

Dr. Mallika Marshall says they don't come without a possible price to the well-being of your feet.

The growing use of the thin-soled, rubber slippers increases chances of serious foot problems, from damage from dropped objects and stubbed toes, to ankle and insole woes caused by their lack of support.

According to Marshall:
Preliminary research from Auburn University shows that the thin soles and the need to grasp the shoes onto our feet force us to walk differently, and could cause problems with legs, knees, hips and backs.

The lack of support offered by flip-flops can cause problems with arches and heels. Their lack of protection means toes can be badly injured if someone steps on them, or drops something on your foot.

And now, some doctors are warning of a new danger - skin cancer, as the sun is suddenly hits an area that's usually well-covered.

Falling Objects
When you wear flip-flops, your toes and feet are exposed, making them susceptible to falling objects or people stepping on your toes. Doctors are seeing more nail injuries and broken or bruised toes, which wouldn't happen if you covered the front of your feet.

Thin Soles
Flip-flops don't offer much in the way of support: no arch support, no heel cushioning, and no shock absorption. That can cause foot pain, tendonitis, and even sprained ankles if you trip.

Thong Effect
The Auburn study indicates that the thongs in the middle mean you have to grip the shoe to keep it on. The thong can actually rub against the skin and causes ulcerations and sores. Also, when you have a toe thong, you tend to grip the shoe with your toes to try and keep it on. That alters your gait and puts strain on muscles you don't normally use when you walk in regular shoes.

Also, a recent study found that men and women who wear flip-flops actually strike the ground with less force than when they wear sneakers, again altering the way you walk and causing you to take shorter steps, which may account for why people who wear them for extended periods experience lower leg pain and have more heel problems, such as heel spurs (little bony growths on the heel) and plantar strain (inflammation of the sheet of tissue covering the bottoms of the feet).

Skin Cancer
Your foot skin is exposed to the sun with flip-flops and people often forget to put sunscreen on their feet. Skin cancer on the feet can be really, dangerous because the spots are easier to miss, especially if they're between the toes.

People More Prone To Problems
Anyone with existing foot injuries shouldn't wear flip-flops. People with diabetes, who are at higher risk of infection and toe injury, shouldn't wear them. And anyone who's significantly overweight needs more support in their shoes, because they tend to put more stress on their feet, ankles and lower back.

Decreasing the Dangers
Use sun block and check your feet for any suspicious moles. Don't walk long distances in your flip-flops - they're really made for walking along the beach or by the pool or if you get into a public shower, not for long strolls.

Frankly, I think that solving obesity should have a higher priority than solving flip-flops if people want to look presentable and avoid health problems.

And when did high heels become good for the feet? But they are commonly worn all day...

Wow - so many responses! Didn't realize the post would strike such a nerve with people - or elicit such judgmental statements!

luv_travel_Aus: thanks. I was just looking at the sequined fit-flops and wondering how comfortable they were. Might buy them whether or not they go to Paris with me!

<<There are also sneakers that don't look like typical bright white cross trainers and are great with jeans.>>

In October I saw a woman in Paris wearing dark jeans, a jacket and scarf and bright turquoise patent leather sneakers. Shelooked great!

Personally, I prefer closed shoes when I'm a tourist because of safety and support. I've worn shoes similar to the Teva Westwater and the Merrill Siren Marianne (earlier models of these). They were both stylish and comfortable. And, after walking on some really slick cobblestones in Uruguay recently, I was especially glad for the foot support they offered. Check these shoes out at zapppos.com.

"My first thoughts when I see someone, other than on a beach or in the fitness center showers, wearing flipflops is "Walmart, tatooed, welfare" and "there's another poor soul (or sole) who has given up on life."

What a stupid way of thinking.

No one cares what kind of shoes or sandals you wear in Paris, seriously (except perhaps for posters on this forum -lol!).

I do think May might be a bit early weather-size for sandals. And for me personally, I walk WAY too much in Paris, flip flops would not be sturdy enough for me to hike around on pavement for 8-10 hours every day. They are fine to have along to slip on if it's warm, or you're just going a short ways, or whatever.

Okay, here they are. Warning! You may see some flip-flops.

http://tinyurl.com/d36vxo

http://tinyurl.com/mfbycy

All photos taken out of my apartment window, where tourists fear to tread.

Wow Paul - I guess you have strong opinions about this

I spent a few weeks in June 2006 trekking around Europe - including Paris. Having done tons of research, I brought along three pair of expensive yet comfortable shoes. Though all of my footwear proved adequate, by the time we arrived in Rome, the final city on our tour, I pulled out my trusty Old Navy brown flip flops which proved, by far, to be the most comfortable daytime cobblestone walking shoes - for me.

I just have to say I've never been inside a Walmart, but I work on a college campus, and I'd be very surprised if the young women I see walking around in flip-flops are on welfare.

Do you think I will be comfortable walking around in these?

http://www.teva.com/ProductDetails.aspx?g=w&categoryID=425&productID=4219&model=Ventura+Thong+Wedge

I am 5 feet tall and I do not want to wear flats! I need a little height. These are the only shoes I could find that look somewhat hip and young. However, I want to be comfortable after hours of walking.

JillDavis, comfort is a completely personal thing, what's most comfortable for one person is awful for another. You might just want to order them and see how they feel.

Personally, I would NOT be comfortable in those for even an hour. Get something comfortable and don't worry about what is 'hip and young'. If you like them, get them and wear around the house for a little while. I don't know what teva's return policy is but as long as the shoes are kept clean and neat you should be able to return them if they're not comfy.

Suppossedly, Teva is a walking shoe made for some distance. I was wondering if anyone had any experience with these shoes??? It has a little bit of a wedge.

at 6 months pregnant we walked ALL over Paris, even in the catacombs and I wore a open toe, wedge leather shoe from BORN. They were comforable, stylish and didn't feel a like a tourist.

JillDavis,

I have two pairs of Teva sandals, both flat. One pair (not stylish) are the most comfortable shoes I've ever owned. The others are comfortable but don't come close to the more clunky pair.

So I would recommend that you just go to a store and try them on, or order from Zappo's or someplace where you can return them.

Finding comfortable shoes for walking miles is my hardest choice when packing. When I was there in June a couple of years ago, I wore Ecco mary janes.

I think having a back strap is essential for me on long walks. Otherwise I can walk right out of the shoe.

Don't be overly concerned about stylishness v. comfort. If your feet hurt, nothing will be good. Most people who will see you will be other tourists.

I took a pair of these Naot Paris sandals to Italy http://www.zappos.com/naot-footwear-paris-black-madras-leather and they were fabulous - really comfortable for walking around all day and looked great with capris as well as skirts. They came in several different colors - mine were black.

The uneven pavement issue is not so much a problem in Paris as it is in Italy - the cobblestone streets are a real toe-stubber in flip flops.

c1thom: If you really want to wear flip flops try:

Rocket Dog "sinker" flip flops. I don't normally wear them but bought these in November for our trip to Hawaii and they were SO comfortable, even walking across the lava fields near the beaches on the big island. Don't know if I'd wear them in Europe because of all the walking.but you can look at them on www.rocketdog.com

JillDavis: just bought the Tevas you linked! Love them, and they seem comfortable enough for me to wear around Paris, and after all of this discussion, seems I'll fit right in with them.

kerouac: you are correct - I NOOOOO longer have concerns about what I'll be wearing. HA! Thanks for the pics.

Sue878: thanks for the link! The flip-flops are so cute, and I love some of their tees!

Wear what you want to. I was in London and Paris last year in April. The weather got hot, and the locals flooded every park wearing shorts, sandals and flip flops and were soaking up the sun.

My main concern about Europe is that I only want to take two pairs of shoes max. Pack one pair and wear one. The more "double duty" the shoes can do, the better. I don't wear sneakers with skirts here, and I'm not gonna' do it when I travel either!

I love the cool Mary Jane look of Privo and Sesto Meucci (I own the Bahia). I find the Keens a little too "knobby".

JillDavis~ It only matters if they are comfortable for YOU. There's no shoe that works for everyone. For me I'd probably break my neck in those (for something with height, I like it strapped on my foot a bit more securely). Also doesn't matter what the company claims. Mephisto, for example, are supposed to be great walking shoes and they are horribly uncomfortable for me.

c1thom - I hope you enjoy them!

I travel business class, have never even seen a Walmart, and also work with university students who would be amazed at the serious nature of the objections to this type of footwear- so guess I am not going to worry too much about my image!

Wow - people do get excited about footwear.

Have a great trip.

I always throw a cheap pair of Walmart flipflops into my YSL handbag. Just in case. You just never know.

bowsprit - it's amazing how good they can feel on tired, weary feet!

I reckon that if flip flops are good enough for the Taliban they are good enough for tourists

wow - sounds like someone's trying to pick a fight.

c1thom: I keep them with me so I can relieve pressure at the start of a blister (foot death for touring). There's less likely to be a blister starting in the winter because socks offer a layer of protection. But in the summer, when feet act funky, I whip out my flip flops, throw my shoes in the big bag and just keep walking.

I wear flip flops as often as I can. When I travel to Europe I try to find dressy ones as they are a little more fashion conscious.

People from beachy communities find it hard to move on to real shoes after life in flip flops.

Flip flops are terrible for those with knee issues. They obviously don't offer any support at all.

I don't wear flip flops on the boat. Very unsafe.

I am one of those who has worn flipflops on every vavation for years. As I get older and wiser, I now realize they are for the beach and kicking around. Not for serious sight-seeing. I have been caught in a rainstorm in the Coba jungle in Mexico,very slippery. In Pompeii, Italy I wished I had sneakers on. The uneaven pavement and cobblestone roads were a deathtrap with flipflops on. I hate having my feet in closed shoes, but twisting your ankle can ruin the rest of your vacation. Having said all that, we will be in France in May, and I will of course pack my flipflops, but I'll be wearing my sneakers.

Wear what you want to. I was in London and Paris last year in April. The weather got hot, and the locals flooded every park wearing shorts, sandals and flip flops and were soaking up the sun>>

yes but the locals aren't walking 5 miles sightseeing in those same flipflops! perhaps if you wear them all day, everyday at home they'll be ok, but mostly people who wear them on holiday don't do that. but by all means pack them - if nothing else, they'll be good in the shower and they don't weigh much.

ds - I'm with you. I wore the same pair of trainers for walking round Rome a couple of weeks ago, and my feet were as happy at the end of the week as they were at the beginning. if it was a late spring/summer trip, I'd have packed some sandals too, but after what they did to my feet in Barcelona last year, I'd not be wearing them for serious sightseeing in the day.

Wow!
Flip flops get alot of attention here and provoke alot of strong reactions. This was not something that came up years ago, BFF (before flip flops)

As much as I personally dislike them the fact is that they are now "acceptable" in many countries. Of course that does not mean they are considered good taste but that is subjective and really not your question. And people who wear them think they look good, even (gasp) cute. Yes I am one of those that thinks they are slovenly looking except on very hot days at the seashore or pool..

If flip flops are comfortable for you by all means take them.

Oh sorry to address you other question:

" What if they were dressy sandals, patent leather or such, that happen to have a thong between the toe?"

Well then they sound more like the dressy sandals you describe not actual FFs. In that case if they are comfy, go for it.

<<yes but the locals aren't walking 5 miles sightseeing in those same flipflops! perhaps if you wear them all day>>

That is the crux of the problem. If you love the shoes then bring them along for short walks to dinner, but bring comfortable walking shoes for sightseeing.

amsdon: Amazing how much attention flip-flops get! and agreed about the strong opinions! Yikes! I decided that since I wear FFs at home, all over, to almost anywhere, I'll take them along, with a pair of closed shoes, in case it's cold. I've worn "dressy" flip-flops (with a kitten heel) to a wedding last summer and received tons of compliments. Amazing how acceptable they've become, and if one has nice feet and painted toenails, they can look lovely - IMO!
Thanks for all the input.

Don't get me started about painted toenails. You have gone too far!

I think that the biggest issue here is the definition of "flip-flop". Are we talking about thin plastic/foam/rubber sandals sold at drug stores? Are we talking about dressy sandals with a heel that have a thong between the toes? Or maybe something in the middle like the leather sandals mentioned with the good cushy sole?

so far as I'm concerned [and probably the rest of the europeans here] a flipflop is indeed one of those plastic/foam jobs sold generally at cheap shops; though there are some more expensive fancy ones, they all share the thong through the toes - that's what makes them a flipflop.

$2 at Wal-Mart. Yes, the Parisians wear them.

Hi there Annhig,

I will add the flip flop traditionally made a noise when you walked. Kind of a flopf flopf flopf flip flop sound.

They are also known as zories or chanclas or chancletas....
Interesting to note the urban use is now also including chancletas as a derogatory adjective meaning cheap...http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=chancletas

My definition of a flip-flop is anything that has two straps, stemming from the thing (thong?) that goes between your big toe and second toe. I have very dressy flip-flops with small heels and sequins and the $2 kind from Old Navy that I would wear on the beach or at the pool. I tool around my town in flip-flops that are somewhere in between - leather straps, slight wedge heel - very cute with shorts or skirts. My favorite look is flip-flops (any of the above), destroyed boyfriend jeans and a tunic or tank. So cute!

And kerouac, I wouldn't leave my house without my toenails painted!

I throw them on when I'm touring a museum. They're great, like wearing slippers. What's wrong with painted toe nails? I haven't had unpainted toenails in 40 years.

I'm too lazy to read all 101 replies. But. You want to wear flip flops in a city? Really?!?
It is dirty and unhygienic, not to mention they are a podiatrist's nightmare. This ain't about fashion. It is eww.

I live in NYC and cringe watching dirty feet walking around in flip flops. Beachwear. Yes. Gettng a pedicure. Yes. Wearing around the house. Yes. Wearing on dirty city streets. No. What is the obsession with people wanting to be barefoot?

Regardless, I guess if you like it, wear what you please though I am silently judging you and staring at your dirty heels.

Make sure you get them on the right feet, otherwise you'll be wearing flop flips.

c1, when you tool around town, are you walking? Do you walk 4 or 5 hours everyday? If so and you wear flip-flops, go for it. But sightseeing in a city means hours of walking, day after day. Interposed with standing, which is more tiring.

But maybe you can find some nice walking sandals to buy. Mine I bought in Bath, also in May, when there was unexpectedly warm weather.

If you are young, live in flip flops at home, and can comfortably walk miles in them... I say go for it.

But most people are more comfortable with something a bit more substantial for all day touring in a European city.

I couldn't resist responding to this thread as choosing shoes for a trip overseas is always of paramount importance for me. If your feet hurt,you are miserable! I second the many responses that say wear what is comfortable for you. My first trip to London, in my twenties, I wore a pair of brand new Famolares, anybody remember the brand?, did not wear them in and was so miserable in the British Museum that I missed the wonders of the Rosetta Stone. This time around, in my fifties, the shoe to wear for our trip in June is a huge issue as I have flat feet and a bunyon.
I just purchased a Romika sandal which is working out so far. I also like Clark's and Merrells; but again your shoe is a personal choice. I wear open-toed sandals all the time here in the southwest and have worn them to London 3 times and am comfortable for awhile. My loving DH carries a spare pair of shoes for me in his backpack so that I may change shoes during the course of the day.
It's true that I never walk as much at home as I do while in London. I dislike white gym shoes, make my feet look huge and they don't feel any more comfortable than any other shoe. You should have seen what I looked like at Fountains Abbey two years ago, in black Keens with white socks and capris. I haven't lived that one down yet; but my feet were cold and they hurt.
My daughter, 13, is coming and I have looked askance at her no support old flats that she is bringing; but as they are comfortable for her she must wear what she must. I will advise that she take another shoe to change out for our time in the country.
So wear what you want, don't worry too much about what people will think, be comfortable, be happy and have a wonderful trip!

idesofmarch: thanks for the advice, and what a sweet hubby you must have - carrying extra shoes around for you! I also will say that, no matter what time of the year I travel, if my feet start to kill me and I don't have other, more comfortable shoes, it just gives me a good excuse to buy a new pair! Which of course I'll be happy to do while in Paris.

While buying new shoes in Paris sounds in theory like fun, I wouldn't want to HAVE to be out shopping because the shoes I brought along weren't working out and my feet were killing me.

I can only reco that everyone who wants to wear flip flops in europe try them out by walking for 4 or 5 hours on city streets. What works if you go form the house to the car to the mall to the cafe to the house - which is really just a few blocks of walking - is very different than 4 or 5 miles on uneven city pavements.

If you can do the latter in flip flops - more power toy ou.

Has anyone had an experience with Aerosoles or Naturalizer? I went shopping this weekend and saw some cute sandals.

Actually, my most comfortable sandles are Etienne Aigner that I bought in tjmaxx but I've seen them online too. A little bit of a heel to release my Achilles tendon always seems to help me. I've worn everything: from the Ugliest naots to cute aerosoles and nothing works day after day. I need to switch them u[. I add gel insoles too to switch them out and redistribute the pressure.

I need to switch them 'up', not u[.

I flop flipped. Sorry.

Some Aerosoles work well (for me) - not all of them have a really cushiony sole but the ones that do are nice. Unfortunately, my foot is a little wide for many of their styles.

The most comfortable shoes for me are my crocs. They are the only shoes I have worn that have never blistered or hurt my feet. I have the relatively cute sling-back style but I know they are hardly a fashion statement.

Humans have existed for around 500,000 years.
They did not have footwear for the first 495,000 years.

Yep, no sneakers, flip flops, sling backs or cute boots.

A large number of people wear in developing countries wear flip flops made out of recycled vehicle tyres.

Wear what you want !

Peter

The good thing about thong sandals is they are light weight. Toss a pair in your suitcase as a second pair of shoes. If you wear them, great. If you don't, you haven't carried around a pair of hiking boots.

did you hear about the man with 2 left feet?

he bought himself a pair of flip flips....... i'll get my coat...

What entertainment!
I flip flopped happily around France for a month because my feet were cool and (for me) comfortable.
Wear whatever you can walk long distances in at home or away.

...And cherry bomb, have fun checking out my dirty heels, it doesn't bother me a bit!

When I am on holidays I have better things to do than checking out other people's holiday garb.

Naot sandals are the only ones I've ever found that I can walk all day in, and even them only certain styles. Ecco and Aerosole both, I've had some good ones, and some real duds.

Ozgirl: it isn't about judging your vacationwear, I stare at gross dirty heels daily while commuting to work in the warm months. Sorry, I just don't get the need to be barefoot while not on the beach and in a concrete jungle.

As far as vacation wear or whatever, wear what you like. I just don't understand the flip flop barefoot need whether on vacation or at home. Just me, and I will silently judge you and occasionally take pictures and post to facebook with my iPhone with my commentary when especially egregious.

Haters gonna hate, and I'm a hater. Like cherrybomb, I don't understand why anyone would want to wear these things in the city.

But, more importantly, is it really warm enough in Paris in May to be wearing flipflops and sandals?

You'll have to ask the people who look for AC in Paris in May.

Why would you want to wear flip flops? You'll get your toes stepped on. You'll fall in the escalator. You'll look strange. You'll get blisters between your toes.

You'll look like a Gypsy from the Eiffel Tower. Now, wait... gypsies wear real shoes. If you want sandals, try Mephistos or some good walking sandals.

Yes, I agree with "Walmart, Tatoos (the wrong kind), and Welfare"... that sums it up. On the other hand, some people can look ok in cheap rubber flip flops. (I'm hedging because the Walmart, tatoo, welfare crowd may also carry guns.)

My travel shoes include: Aerosoles and Ecco. And instead of flat flip flops, try the much thicker soles with great support-- Fit Flops. I have them in silver and in gold. It's like having your feet massaged while walking.

I grew up knowing that flip flops were designed by a Parisian to be worn during the summer months.

I'm a 50 year old woman and I wear flip flops all over Paris, often in May. I walk for many, many miles and never have a problem. They work just fine for my feet and my back. My feet never get filthy, but I do make sure I bathe every day! And I have been stopped and asked for directions too many times by native French speakers to think that I am immediately tagged as a tourist or an American simply because I'm wearing flip-flops. Oh, and I have never shopped at Walmart, have no tatoos, never been on welfare, and in fact, earned 6 figures last year (while wearing flip-flops!)

I'm with you plafield! Let's kick up our dirty heels and enjoy Paris!

You can also check "Health Concerns" here:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flip-flops

plafield--I'm glad you are doing so well. But the impression is still there when I see someone wearing flip-flops. And I doubt that I'm alone. Of course, if I actually got to know you, that impression would undoubtedly change over time.

But just seeing someone out in public, we only have the information that our eyes provide at that time. And flip-flops definitely give the impression to many of us of a person who doesn't care much about how they look and aren't particularly well informed about proper footwear to protect one's feet while walking around (other than limited walking around the house or on the beach). It just seems, from the research I've done, that flip-flops are an extremely short-sighted choice of footwear for real walking. Reminds me a bit of the poor young lady wearing high heels we saw struggling along the 5 Terre paths--another poor footwear choice.

I third the vote for Fit Flops. I don't wear flip flops but saw that Fit Flops tighten the legs and your bottom. Seeing as my legs and bottom could use some tightening, I bought the Fit Flops. I don't know that they did much for my "problems" but they are THE MOST comfortable "shoe" I have ever worn. I now own two pairs and will probably purchase a third.

Y'all are still discussing this? Whether to wear flip flops is at the forefront of travel planning? In the words of a wise LOLCat: travel planning, ur doin it wrong.

ttp

to equal the Paris thread ..........

Peter

cherrybomb, it's just so that some people can save some money on footwear in order to be able to afford the $8 Cokes.

Kerouac: people will complain about the cost of coca cola despite buying $50 flip flops because someone here said it was the only ok version when no one cares anyhow. I stand by my LOLCat assertion.

End game: with the advent of the interwebs people wear the same thing wherever. It is all the same stock of clothing available. No country has a secret stash of fashion. All the same. Bad, good, or otherwise.

I've spent a lot of time researching this and found the ideal outfits for the travelling fashionista :

http://illuminations.blogs.com/illuminations/images/american_tourist.jpg

Note that the flip flops are optional

Glad they are optional, as her ankles are already swelling. His shoes look much more comfy, but maybe its the sox....

Actually, he must be German with the socks and sandals together. Though I would have thought that he would have had some sort of a very, very tight, colorful, shiny material shirt and extremely tight and short shorts if German. Maybe he emigrated from Germany to the USA, that would explain the shirt.

I think I saw that guy at a popular restaurant in Kauai. He was scratching his armpit with a fork. It rather ruined my appetite.

But wait, I'm confused...

Should the OP WEAR the Flip-flops, or NOT?

I think there are flip flops, and there are flip flops. The old style ones are thin rubber mats with a thin rubber thong. Those, you can barely keep on your feet and probably would get your feet very dirty.

The newer/better kind are more sturdy and are comfortable.

And your point is?

The old kind are awful and useless. The newer ones would be fine for general sightseeing IMHO.

French branches of Lidl are selling intermediate flip flops at the moment for €4.99 .

Crucial information !

Peter

Article on flip flops: Cautions and advice.

http://shine.yahoo.com/channel/beauty/the-right-kind-of-flip-flops-to-wear-this-summer-1635481/

hey kerouac, where are the pictures you post? I would love to check them out. Thanks!

144 replies re flip flops????? Wowo wow wow.
No wonder no one looks at my Musica Española thread!
What's the world coming to?


BTW Roussilon you're funny!

amsdon, I know, it's sad. Top it that's what I do when there is no response

I would wear Keens!

That's ok....I am amused though.

flip flops clothes. Every major city has the same fashions. You will see flip flops everywhere but mostly in some neighborhoods. Mine is like keruac's, very ethnic and you will see everything, flipflops, goth, saris. etc.
Paris and London are the same. Yes the dressier the thong the better. Have fun. London is much more casual than Paris.

It seems that shoes are always a hit on Fodor's. Why not? We all wear them and are very picky about them.

A word of warning. On last years European Odyssey I wore leather flip flop style sandals

By the end of the summer the leather sole had become very smooth which was fine on normal pavements but lethal on stone surfaces and I frequently took them off and walked barefoot when descending steep stone slopes. Take some sand paper with you.

( Pedro Garcia's here is a link for the sartorially inclined.
http://i427.photobucket.com/albums/pp351/sarahadlow2009/44163912gh_12_f.jpg

Here's another warning about the hazards of wearing flip flops:

http://www.lemondrop.com/2010/07/30/are-flip-flops-dangerous/?icid=main|hp-laptop|dl3|link4|http%3A%2F%2Fwww.lemondrop.com%2F2010%2F07%2F30%2Fare-flip-flops-dangerous%2F

Flip flops cause 200,000 accidents in the UK each year and the cost of treating them is £40m.

http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2010/07/28/article-1298471-0A9B82D4000005DC-336_468x330.jpg

Even US royalty can get it wrong ?

http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2010/07/30/article-1298850-0A9C21A1000005DC-988_306x586.jpg

ok - who is that, exactly?

Flip flops cause 200,000 accidents in the UK each year and the cost of treating them is £40m>

really??? I'm surprised that 200,000 uk citizens own them - if they do, there's a 100% accident rate!

If you mean the photo, it's Chelsea Clinton, Hil's and Bill's daughter.

Wonder what the stats are on accidents to wearers of or caused by wearers of 5" stiletto heels?

oops, silly me.

didn't she get married recently?

Looks like the Clinton girl is following the fashion of the Material Maiden.
http://tinyurl.com/24gstbg