Do they have enough arch support built in so that they can support the foot? Can they be used instead of foot orthotics? Even thousgh foot orthotics do work really well at helping people with foot orthotics, they do need to be worn in shoes. Not everyone wants to wear shoes all the time, so if they need foot orthotics, are the arch supporting flip flops any good as an alternative? A lot of people are asking.
Yes, they definitly can be a help adjunct to foot orthotics, but not always an alternative to them. They can support the arch somewhat, but that may be not enough for particular individuals. The amount of support that the arch supporting flip flops come with is usually a low to average amount and its the same size for everyone. If it does help someone, then it would be by chance and not design. If you use foot orthotics in your shoes, then using these as well when you are not wearing shoes is a good option.
For example, if your have a mild problem, then mild or average supports may be all you need.
When I was in Australia, I came across the Archies brand which is providing very popular with podiatrists there. I have not yet seen an equivalent brand in San Francisco, so will eagerly await options.