We earn a commission for products purchased through some links in this article.
These 12 best flip flops are the biggest summer sandal trend in 2026
From your classic Havaianas to Y2K styles
Flip flops are a forever summer staple. Whether you're after a classic pair of Havaianas (or our latest obsession, Archies) for all-day comfort and support, or prefer an elevated leather or kitten-heel style, there’s truly a pair of flip flops for every occasion.
From weddings and day trips to beach holidays and everything else in our jam-packed diaries, the humble thong has officially earned its place as a wardrobe essential.
Best flip flops to shop in 2026
- 1
- 2
- 3
- 4
- 5
It doesn't take much scrolling to spot a pair of flip flops on a chic Instagram feed. Once reserved for holidays, beach days or quick trips to the shop, the flip flop has become a fashion staple in 2026.
From chunky wedges and jelly styles, there are more options than ever before. Better still, they come in every colour imaginable, making it easy to find a pair to suit your personal style. Whether you’re wearing them with relaxed cargo trousers for a pub lunch or styling them with a maxi skirt for the office, flip flops are here for all walks of life.
Of course, every wardrobe still needs a classic pair, too. Thanks to the SS26 runways, traditional rubber flip flops remain firmly on trend, while offering the comfort and practicality that make them ideal for holidays and everyday wear.
What do podiatrists look for in a good flip flop?
Here's the thing: most podiatrists probably wouldn't recommend flip flops for long walks or hiking. But for everyday wear – even if that involves a few thousand steps – there are plenty of supportive styles designed to keep your feet comfortable.
First, look for proper arch support (Archies are one of our faves). A contoured footbed will mould to your foot, helping to reduce strain and improve comfort. It’s also worth choosing a style with a defined heel cup – a slight indentation around the heel helps keep your foot stable as you walk.
Next comes cushioning. A little padding can improve shock absorption and make flip flops feel more comfortable underfoot, but too much can actually reduce stability. Finally, the straps. Slightly wider, more secure straps will help keep your foot in place and make walking feel far more comfortable.
Now for the fun part: shopping. With more styles available than ever before, there really is a flip flop for everyone. If comfort is your priority, Havaianas and Archies both offer supportive styles that won't break the bank. Looking for something a little more elevated? SEQWL's beaded flip flops are perfect for pairing with a floaty maxi dress on holiday.
Ahead, our edit of the 12 best flip flops to shop right now and live in all summer long.
Havaianas Slim Square Flip Flops
Havaianas Slim Square Flip Flops
Havaianas are a fashion set favourite, and for good reason. They're sleek, minimal, comfy, waterproof and come in many colours, so you can always coordinate to the rest of your look. Our current faves are the brand's square-toe style. Obvs we already own the black version, so why not try this blush pink pair for a summery feel?
Key Specifications:
| Colours: | Black and brown (on the JD website) |
|---|---|
| Sizes: | UK 4.5-7 |
Archies Arch Support Flip Flops
Archies Arch Support Flip Flops
Archies emulate the classic flip-flop shape, but (as you’d guess from the name) they’re designed with built-in arch support, thicker straps and cushioned soles for all-day comfort. And we mean all-day: these clever little sandals are made to keep your feet supported through everything from holiday exploring to seriously long summer walks. They’re loved by the likes of Jen Aniston and Kylie Minogue – and did we mention they come in 20 different shades?
Key Specifications:
| Colours: | 20 - including red, pink, green, blue, black, orange, yellow and more |
|---|---|
| Sizes: | UK 3-14 |
Havaianas Square Stylish Flip Flops
Havaianas Square Stylish Flip Flops
As much as we adore the OG pair of Havaianas, something has to be said for this flower-embellished iteration. They’re the easiest way to quickly elevate your outfit, whether paired with white linen trousers or a maxi dress – either way, these 3D flower motifs couldn’t be cuter. Better yet, their style doesn’t compromise on substance: they’re as comfortable and supportive as the Havaianas you may already own.
Key Specifications:
| Colours: | One - on the JD website |
|---|---|
| Sizes: | UK 4.5-7 |
Lacoste Meduz Flip Flop
If support and structure are your biggest boxes to tick when flip-flop shopping, turn to Lacoste’s Meduz. ICYDK, Lacoste is known for its sporty yet trendy apparel that marries tennis heritage with day-to-day fashion. So it’s no surprise to us they know how to create a comfortable flip flop.
Sure, you may not be on a tennis court wearing these, but the foam soles and thick straps will keep your feet supported and in place on long walks or day trips. Plus, we love the on-trend shade of baby blue.
Key Specifications:
| Colours: | Off white, grey and blue |
|---|---|
| Sizes: | UK 3-8 |
Reef Flat Flip Flops
Reef Flat Flip Flops
If you’re looking for a sturdy pair of flip flops to take on your next beach holiday, turn to Reef’s Flat Flip Flops. Made from lightweight, water-friendly EVA, they’re the perfect choice for beach days and poolside lounging. Plus, the contoured soles provide cushioning and support, making them a comfortable option for exploring and beach walks.
Key Specifications:
| Colours: | Six: Pink, blue, black, white, brown and orange |
|---|---|
| Size: | UK 3-9 |
Hush Rope Flat Sandals
Hush Rope Flat Sandals
For a fresh take on the flip flop, look no further than these Hush sandals, which swap the classic thong straps for a red and blue rope design. They’re an easy way to bring a sporty (read: hiking-inspired) edge to your summer wardrobe, while still being versatile enough to style with almost anything. Pair them with Bermuda shorts and a white tee for an off-duty look, or wear them with a flowing maxi dress for a more elevated summer outfit.
Key Specifications:
| Colours: | Blue/red and brown |
|---|---|
| Sizes: | EU 36-41 |
FitFlop Relief Recovery Toe-Post Sandals
FitFlop Relief Recovery Toe-Post Sandals
You'll feel like you're walking on clouds in these cushiony FitFlop flip flops that have been biomechanist-developed for faster recovery after physical activity. Crafted entirely in soft light flexible EVA foam, they feature energy-efficient ergonomics throughout so tired feet don't work harder than they have to.
Key Specifications:
| Colours: | Black and gold |
|---|---|
| Sizes: | UK 3-9 |
Birkenstock Gizeh Sandals
Birkenstock Gizeh Sandals
Birkenstocks have never really fallen out of favour. Whether you’re loyal to the iconic Arizona sandals or the Boston clogs, the brand’s designs have remained a footwear fave for decades. If it’s flip flops you’re after, though, look no further than the Gizeh. They feature a contoured cork footbed that moulds to the shape of your feet over time, alongside secure straps for all-day comfort. They’re also a brilliant holiday choice, offering the support you need for beach strolls and sightseeing days.
Key Specifications:
| Colour: | Black, gold and white |
|---|---|
| Size: | UK 3.5-8 (available in half sizes) |
Complete your sunny day outfits with these go-with-anything suede sandals featuring V-shaped straps and square toes for a modern update on the classic silhouette. This rich burgundy hue is bang on trend for SS26, too. No notes!
Key Specifications:
| Colours: | Six: White, black, green, tan, burgundy, leopard |
|---|---|
| Sizes: | UK 2-9 |
Reformation Jessie Thong Sandal
Reformation Jessie Thong Sandal
You can't beat a black leather flip flop. Smart enough to wear to dinner with your summer dress or a linen waistcoat and trousers co-ord, but casual enough to pair with your jorts and a milkmaid top. In short, you'll wear these bad boys all summer long, guaranteed.
Key Specifications:
| Colours: | 11 shades available, including black, brown, red, zebra, yellow |
|---|---|
| Sizes: | UK 2.5-9, plus half sizes |
SEQWL Flat thong
Beaded jewellery is a big trend this summer, and there's no reason your embellishment can't extend to your footwear. The straps on these leather flip flops are adorned with colourful, chunky gems to instantly elevate any outfit. Personally, we feel these will be best styled with a bikini, beach coverup and a cocktail in hand.
Key Specifications:
| Colours: | Tan, black and gold |
|---|---|
| Sizes: | UK 3-8 |
River Island Pink Jelly Toe Thong Sandals
River Island Pink Jelly Toe Thong Sandals
Jelly sandals are the unexpected SS26 trend to get on board with – and, TBH, anything that transports us back to the days of Polly Pockets and Y2k flip phones, we’re down. We love the gorgeous pink hue of this River Island pair, complete with a kitten heel to elevate the look (and you).
Key Specifications:
| Colours: | Pink and brown |
|---|---|
| Sizes: | UK 3-9 |
Which flip flops are best for walking?
A basic, flat pair of flip flops might not be the best choice for long walks or hikes, but for lounging by the pool or nipping to the shops, they’re an essential. That said, there are plenty of styles designed with all-day comfort in mind, featuring details like arch support and cushioned footbeds to help keep your feet feeling comfortable for longer.
If you’re planning to wear flip flops for a full day of exploring or sightseeing, Archies, FitFlop and Birkenstock are great places to start. Their designs feature cushioned soles that mould to your feet, alongside arch support to help improve stability as you walk. Look out for wider straps, too, as they offer a more secure fit and are less likely to rub.
Alexandria Dale is the Digital Fashion Writer at Cosmopolitan UK. Covering everything from the celebrity style moments worth knowing about to the latest fashion news, there’s nothing she loves more than finding a high street dupe of a must-have designer item. As well as discovering new brands, she’s passionate about sustainable fashion and establishing the trends that are actually worth investing in. Having worked in fashion journalism for six years, she has experience at both digital and print publications including Glamour and Ok!
Clare Stephenson is the Senior Fashion and Beauty E-commerce Writer for Cosmopolitan, ELLE and Harper’s Bazaar. She has been an e-commerce writer since 2022, creating matter-of-fact reviews and shopping pages filled with her favourite products for every budget and need – whether that’s a glow-giving foundation, a high-tech LED face mask or the perfect wear-with-everything blazer.
Alongside writing, Clare loves to be in front of the camera creating shopping content, putting viral products to the test to see which ones are truly worth the hype. Through her work, she has interviewed leading dermatologists, makeup artists and industry experts to bring readers trusted advice and product recommendations.
Clare has contributed to titles across the Hearst UK portfolio, including Women’s Health, Good Housekeeping, Red and Prima. Prior to joining Hearst, she earned a BA in Multimedia Journalism from Bournemouth University, focusing her studies on magazines and editorial. She later worked as an editorial assistant at Voir Fashion Magazine, covering events including Fashion Week and interviewing notable brand founders.
Outside of work? You can find Clare strolling through London’s Columbia Road Market, pouring her fourth coffee of the day or heading to a Pilates class.
Follow Clare on Instagram @clarefrancesstephenson.
What we're shopping: Zara's on-trend check jacket
Short sleeve cardigans are late-summer’s on-trend top
Beauty advent calendars already launching for 2026
Check shirts are late summer's most stylish layer
