Slides and Thongs

Thongs sit between the toes with a strap that forms a V across the foot, while slides have a single band across the top that you slip your foot under. Both are open and easy to wear; thongs feel more minimal and beachy, whereas slides cover a little more of the foot and are quick to step into. It mostly comes down to preference.

Some do and some do not. Certain styles are built with a contoured, cushioned footbed that supports the arch, which suits longer days on your feet, while flatter designs keep things simple and lightweight. If support matters to you, look for it called out in the product description, since it varies from pair to pair.

Materials range from moulded synthetics on sporty slides to soft wool and sheepskin on fluffy styles, with rubber or foam footbeds underneath for cushioning. The upper you choose changes the feel, so a fluffy slide is plush and warm while a flat thong is light and breezy. The materials for each pair are listed on its product page.

Yes, that is where they shine. Open styles keep feet cool, slip on and off in a second, and suit the pool, the beach, and warm-weather trips. Styles with synthetic or rubber footbeds handle splashes and rinse clean easily, while soft, fluffy pairs are better kept for dry, casual wear away from the water.