We often discuss in our store what to do about post-workout shoes and lightweight shoes during the summer. The solution is usually flips flops which we happily carry. We think they serve a great purpose…for wearing from the car to the pool, putting on after practice, or wearing in the front yard to protect against sticks and rocks. What we don’t recommend is for your children to wear flip flops or crocs all day every day. I get that it’s easier. I get that kids can put them on themselves. I get that they’re even cheaper than a good pair of athletic shoes but there have to be some limits.
ABC News recently did a short report on how to find a supportive flip flops if you wear one at all. It is called To Flip or to Flop?. In this video, they mention a report by the American College of Sports Medicine, entitled Flip-Flops, Heels Examines For Performance, Impact. Hopefully both of these reports can help us all get a little more educated about the effects flip flops might have on our kids.
We at 1379 encourage you to do a few things. First, limit the amount that your kids wear flips flops. Let them know there’s a difference between every day shoes and secondary shoes. If you’re going to undertake an actual activity, including some school, they should wear supportive shoes, but if you are just running to the gas station and back flip flops could be OK. Second, explore other options. We strongly encourage you to get your kids in some Keen shoes. It’s not just because we sell them. Rather, we sell them because we see them as the perfect solution to the lack of support flip flops provide. They are still airy, lightweight, great for letting your feet breathe, but yet still more support around the heel than flip flops and crocs. Lastly, set the example by wearing more supportive shoes yourself to show them flip flops are only for special occasions. As painful as it will be for some of us to avoid throwing on our flip flops every morning, think of it like reducing the amount you curse in front of your kids. It’s not convenient but it’s better for your kids.
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