The Vionic Wave Toe Post is rated as one of the best flip flops for plantar fasciitis due to it’s high arch support. The custom footbed is made of a medium-density EVA foam, while the outsole is made of a thermoplastic rubber and the upper strap constructed out of nylon material. They’re made specifically for those dealing with heel pain and alignment-related foot issues.
It’s a fairly lightweight flip flop, though not quite as light as your typical foam beach sandal. And it’s available in a multitude of uncommon and unique color options that should make this a great accessory to most of your warm weather garments.
Arch Support
The Wave Toe Post sandals feature somewhat rigid arch supports, which has shown to help those with flat feet, neutral and high arches alike. The footbed is actually designed with the Orthaheel technology, which seems to work well for those suffering from moderate to severe heel pain. Propping up the arches can help for those that spend lots of time on their feet, which makes this a great alternative for those that don’t wear shoes all the time.
On top of that, the footbed is made of a medium-density EVA foam which is effective at absorbing shock, thereby reducing stress and pain that can be often felt on the knees, feet, and ankles. The arch supports have been quite useful for correcting over-pronation among flat-footed individuals. The footbed’s design features textured circles to enhance grip and prevent instances of slipping.
Like all products from Vionic, the Wave Toe Post sandals’ footbed is APMA certified and has shown the ability to provide relief from a number of foot-related issues. It also features motion control aspects which restores your foot to its natural position, thereby ensuring proper alignment.
The Wave Toe Post sandals also contain a semi-padded forefoot section to add comfort to the ball of your feet, though not necessarily as forgiving as other flip flops we’ve tested. Likewise, the nylon straps and toe post are durable but not considered soft or plush.
Heel Support
Beyond having arguably the best arch supports available, these sandals feature a deep and wide heel cup, which makes them a great option for those that don’t have narrow feet. With each step, you’ll definitely feel the arch rest on the strong support while your heels sit down in the cradle. Getting a proper size fit will surely add to the stability of this flip flop and prevent your foot from slipping around.
And while the footbed isn’t known to be one of the most soft and comfortable, it does offer a bit of padding when you step down into them. The heel and forefoot will definitely give a bit more than the arch area, which feels like the most rigid part of this sandal. But with that EVA foam material, you can certainly expect a bit of shock absorption.
Outsole
The most durable part of this sandal, of course, is the thermoplastic rubber outsole. It truly feels more sturdy than most other sandals with arch support. For the most part, it’s a firm flip flop throughout and won’t offer much flexibility. But that should be good for those that are looking for strong and functional arch support.
It features a wave-patterned tread which offers a moderate amount of traction on a variety of terrains, but probably not best for trekking or anything that requires grippy lugs. But it should handle wet surfaces without too much problems or slippage.
Overall Feel
When slipping on these Vionics, the first thing you’ll notice is of course the abundant arch support. It’s undeniable when compared to any other footwear you’re normally accustomed to. While that’s not to say it’s uncomfortable, but it might take a few days to get used to for those with sensitive arches. Vionic also recommends that you break them in over the course of a few days by wearing them sparingly at first, then bumping it up as you go along.
As far as the footbed, it feels fairly rigid with some minor cushioning throughout, notably in the heel area. The upper strap is comfortable and non-intrusive, though probably not as comfortable as the synthetic upper in the Tide Toe Post. And the design looks classic enough to be worn with almost anything.
Use
These sandals have a classic casual design that makes it versatile enough to be worn with almost anything, from shorts to jeans. But they certainly look good for summer wear. And the thick and rigid construction make it ideal for taking just about anywhere you need to go.
And what’s also nice is that they are available in several unique color styles that aren’t always typical for flip flops, such as Navy, Khaki and Chocolate.
As far as sizing goes, Vionic sandals can run a bit bigger on average as per many comments online. We tried them on, and for a narrow foot, that was also true. We sized down – since they don’t offer half sizes – and the fit still had a bit of room leftover. But it felt just about right.
16 Best Sandals For Plantar Fasciitis 
Online User Reviews Overall Experience
- One of the best sandals for plantar fasciitis
One of the most common feedback from buyers is that these Vionic sandals are just about the perfect solution to their heel pain issues. The brand has become known for its arch support, so you’ll find a number of comments praising the support, as well as their ability to help relieve them of pains caused by plantar fasciitis in particular.
- Requires a bit of a break in period
Several people who are new to Vionic, and arch support sandals, find that they may need to break them in for a few days before finding the relief they are looking for. You’ll definitely see comments like this, but also praising the support after sticking with it and now loving them.
- Easy to clean
Another nice little benefit of these flip flops is that many reviewers find them to be pretty easy to clean. Not having a rubber or foam footbed makes this one of the easier sandals to clean. Just a bit of water and a cloth can clean the tops off real quick. But they aren’t waterproof, so you’ll need to make sure not to submerge them or take them in the ocean if you want to preserve the look.
Pros:
- Offers the best arch support available
- Helps many dealing with plantar fasciitis
- Reduces stress that’s felt in the knees, ankles, and feet
- Textured footbed keeps feet from slipping
- Grippy outsole pattern
- Certified by the American Podiatric Medical Association
Cons:
- The straps may sit too loose for some users
- May be a bit wide for narrow feet
- Some complaints the arch support is too rigid
- May require a break-in period
- Not waterproof