What are Archies flip-flops?
Archies was founded by Australian physiotherapist Daniel Jones, who grew frustrated after years of watching his patients ignore his warnings about typical flat flip-flops. He realised the market was missing an orthotic option that style- and fitness-conscious people would actually want to wear, and set about designing some that he and his mates would happily sport from the beach to post-workout coffee. The result? An understated block-colour sandal with 2.2cm of real arch support, and a cleverly re-engineered design: raising the heel slightly to reduce strain, soft, stretchable straps to prevent toe-post snapping and blisters, and a secure fit so your toes never have to claw with every step.
It works. I, for one, have worn these flip-flops comfortably all day on schleps around London, including to the office and back – something that would be unthinkable for the average £3.50 pair I’ve been known to pick up beachside from a market stall in France. You’ll have none of the aching ankles and heels that you tend to find when wearing truly flat shoes with no arch support. Also, I’m being 100 per cent honest when I say that these haven’t rubbed for a second since the first time I slipped them on – not in between the toes, nor over the top of them. It’s genuinely impressive and I think the first and only time this has happened to me.
They are a little on the small side so, if you’re between sizes, certainly go one up. I’m a true UK size four and, while they fit okay, they are rather snug and I could have sized up without issue.
Below, all of the ways our editors are styling their flip-flops for summer, whether it’s poolside abroad, or pub hopping in London.
Charley Ward, commerce writer
Abigail Malbon, global audience development manager
Archies arc support flip-flops
My Archies have become my most worn shoes this summer, from day-to-day life in London to family trips to Wales and beyond. I’ve always loved a summer sandal but haven’t worn flip flops outside of beach trips before, purely because I’ve been worried about the lack of support. But the minute I tried my Archies on, I knew I’d wear them regularly. They’re incredibly comfortable, and I always spot other people wearing them now. Call it a cult, but I’m already eyeing up my next colour…
Olivia Morelli, digital features editor
Sarah Bannerman, commerce editor
Archies arc support flip-flops
I’ve got flip flops. Who hasn’t? But when I heard the rest of the team waxing lyrical about how comfortable this particular pair was, I couldn’t resist trying them myself. So confident was I, that I boldly packed them in my carryon for a three night trip to Mallorca without a single back-up shoe. I love the neutral, putty hue of the stlye I chose, but I’ve also got my eye on the butter yellow version for something a little more fun. Now that I know I can wear them both by the pool and for an afternoon walking round Palma – pain-free – I’ll definitely buy myself some more. There’s plenty of summer left yet!
More of our editors’ favourite shoes for travel