Diabetic flip-flop may sound to some people like an oxymoron. After all, diabetics are generally supposed to wear supportive, closed-toes shoes that protect and cushion the feet. Flip-flops are about as non-supportive and "unsafe" a shoe as you can find. While a flip-flop still might not be the best shoe for a diabetic, the company Vasyli has come out with a version of the product, which is about as diabetic-friendly as you can get. People who just can’t bear to think of stuffing their feet into closed-toed shoes at the beach or as they walk around the garden, may want to consider this version of the summertime classic.

The Women’s Vasyli Orthaheel Wave Sandals come in blue is designed with a contoured foot bed designed to reduce excessive pronation. In more simple terms, the foot bed is made so that it matches the natural curves of your foot and it prevents your foot from turning in too much each time you take a step (a phenomenon known as excessive pronation that can lead to a host of other foot and ankle problems). The Women’s Vasyli Orthaheel Wave Sandal provides you with a subtle heel and thick layer of orthopedic padding. The outsole is heavy-duty rubber and designed to be slip resistant. In addition to describing the shoe as a good choice for diabetics, Vasyli recommends its orthopedic flip flops for people suffering from Achilles tendon pain, plantar fasciitis, shin splints and heel spurs. The flip-flops may also be a welcome choice for pregnant women.

As an alternative to the flip-flop, it may be worth hunting around for an orthopedic sandal that closes with a strap across the foot (rather than a thong). Not only are these shoes more secure on your feet (and generally provide slightly more protection from scrapes and bruises), they also prevent unhealthy walking habits that can lead to long-term foot, ankle and knee problems. Because the feet are not securely anchored in flip-flops, the toes tend to grip the foot bed in an effort to increase stability and prevent the foot from slipping out of the shoe. This "gripping" of the toes leads to an unnatural and unhealthy gait. The occasional use of flip-flops should not lead to any permanent damage, but those people who find themselves wearing flip-flops 7 days a week, 52 weeks a year may want to reconsider their footwear habits. If you decide to look for an orthopedic sandal rather than a flip-flop, make sure the shoe fastens securely with Velcro or with a buckle and that it has a contoured, supportive foot bed and slip-resistant sole.