Page 5 - Ben Keen

What size of Salt-Water Sandals you should buy is not as easy as ordering your regular size, for that the brand apologizes. There is good reason though. The Original Salt-Water sandal was designed in the 1940's and they are still made using the same old shoe lasts (moulds) with their own unique sizing system.

We understand that while this little quirk adds to their charm, it also makes it tricky to work out what size to order. You can find size guides at the bottom of this page and below we outline some tips on how to ensure your sandals have the ultimate in snugness of fit.

It's good to know that the sandal is supposed to fit close at the heel, in other words, your foot is meant to be sitting close to the back end of the sole. At the front, there is a line of stitching and we advise that your toes are just on or just behind the line, not creeping over it.

It's also good to know that Salt-Water sandals can take a bit of stretching. If at first,

With August being the most popular month for weddings in England and Wales, and only 5% of weddings taking place during the winter months, flip flops are not just for beach weddings and boho brides anymore. We can all agree that in recent years fashion rules have become a bit more relaxed, and that has played a major role in how socially acceptable it is to wear flip flops outside holiday hours.

Flip flops are perfect for many different weddings: from obvious ones like a beach or outdoor ceremony (try wearing high heels on grass…) to destination weddings and elopements because they’re easy to pack in your getaway bag. You might also want to opt for flip flops if you’re trying to keep costs down as they are much less expensive than traditional wedding shoes, or if you want to wear them again—on your honeymoon, for example. Most brides don’t wear their wedding dress ever again, but opting for a pair of wedding flip flops means you’ll be able to keep a sweet memento of your special day.

Bridal

Following on from the big news that is Barclay’s ‘flip flop ban’, we got to thinking about other cases in which our beloved flip flops have been banned.

While the banning of flip flops for suit-clad bankers isn’t quite so hard to believe, these other cases are a little more unusual…

This selection of stories will have your flip flops turning in their cupboard.

First up is the recent flip flop ban for travelers aboard a Quantas flight. Yes you heard correctly, the Aussie airline, home to the land of flip flop lovers and flip flop clad visitors, has cracked down on ‘dressed down travelers’.

The Australian airline implemented a set of guidelines from April 1st, which reminds passengers using certain airport lounges that they must be dressed in a ‘smart casual’ manner. Therefore passengers wearing vests, shorts, and namely, flip flops, may end up being turned away from Quantas lounge areas. You wouldn’t be blamed for thinking that this only applies to Business Lounges,

There’s no easy way to break it – shoes are bad for your body. It’s not just high heels, cowboy boots and platforms, but most pumps, trainers and hiking boots too. According to research, they play havoc with your gait (the way you walk), which sends your whole posture out of balance. Prolonged use of the wrong shoes can lead to a host of musculoskeletal problems, including backache and osteoarthritis in the knee – ouch.

“It took four million years to develop our unique human foot…yet, in only a few thousand years, and with one carelessly-designed instrument, our shoes, we have warped the pure anatomical form of human gait.”

But there is one form of footwear that is not on the naughty list – flip flops (and sandals).

“It took four million years to develop our unique human foot…yet, in only a few thousand years, and with one carelessly-designed instrument, our shoes, we have warped the pure anatomical form of human gait.” These are the words of world-famous podiatrist and footwear consultant,

It’s hard enough picking out your own seasonal footwear, let alone your children’s.

Children need summer footwear that is both practical, meaning it should be cool and comfortable, but it must also be safe, offering protection for their little toes and supporting their developing feet.

Flip flops are the ideal choice when it comes to the summer holidays when kids need something easy to get in and out of, water-friendly and easy to clean up.

From our 40+ years of experience in selling flip flops, we know that not everyone is looking for the same things when buying flip flops for their children, but there are a few things most parents can agree on: they have to be comfortable, they have to appeal to their children with fun colours, print or characters, and they have to be affordable, as they probably won’t be around for more than a year.

We’ve created a list with plenty of great options for all ages, tastes and needs.

Havaianas are one of the leading brands

Whether you’re a marathon runner, love weightlifting or anything in between, recovery is a part of your workout regime you should never skip. Most people invest in clothing and footwear to use during the active periods of their training, but the post-workout gear is just as important.

Recovery flip flops are specially designed footwear used after a workout or training session to aid in the recovery of your muscles and joints. They can make a difference in how you feel and how quickly you bounce back after strenuous exercise. They work by cushioning your feet and providing support in key areas such as the arch and the heel, and they are endorsed by podiatrists to be effective in reducing the impact on your joints and muscles.

Fit

The most important thing to look for is fit. An anatomically shaped footbed that supports your arch and heel will absorb the impact on your feet, knees and back and

Ant Says: "Love these, an update on the original Fanning, great all rounders for holidays or smarter occasions. Really comfy with a 360 degree airbag under the heel! Still with the legendary Fanning bottle opener on the out sole."

"These are like slipping in to gloves! Amazing comfort and have that laid-back-luxury feel. Timeless Classics that are absolute must haves this season."

Ali Says: "I'm off on my holidays early in the season. I've got a pair of Mayaris in yellow, I couldn't resist! Birkenstock sandals just ooze quality and their designs just get more and more inspired. I can't wait to wear these down to the beach and out in the evenings, hopefully sporting a glorious sun tan!"

"The new colours in the Havaianas Slim range this season are so vibrant. I have my eye on the Mineral Blue."

From humble, ancient beginnings to modern fashion icons, flip flops have morphed and evolved, perhaps more than any other item of footwear out there. Available in countless prints, colourways, styles and shapes, it seems like these toe-post sandals are everywhere these days.

Wedge flip flops have the laid-back look that transcends us into holiday mode with an elevated sense of style.

Their rise to popularity makes sense when you think about it: wedge flip flops give you the best of both worlds. They will enhance your posture and elongate your legs as a pair of heels would, but still remain super comfortable with an effortless look.

They can be styled wildly, pairing well with casual and formal outfits. Their incredible versatility means you can make an instant transition from the beach to a night out, as easy as stepping from the sand onto the dance floor.

This trend has been around for a few years now and is likely to carry on, so owning a pair of these flip

It's time to get ready for a summer of fun in the sun! Water resistant, colourful sandals are the perfect accessory for any beach adventure. Whether you're wading through shallow lagoons, surfing the waves, or simply soaking up some rays on the shoreline, these sandals will offer you maximum comfort with their cozy cushioned soles and adjustable straps. Plus, their durable construction ensures that they'll stay looking great in spite of salt water and sand. Get ready for your most stylish and adventurous beach season yet with these trendy water resistant colourful sandals!

Get ready to walk on clouds! Cloud Slides sandals offer a combination of total convenience and unbeatable style. Slip 'em on for pool parties, sunny days or picnics – they're water resistant so you can take them anywhere. Plus, their stylish design is sure to make a statement at any event! Comfort meets luxury with the footbed's EVA cushion foam that provides shock absorption properties all day