Flip-flops are one of the world’s most popular shoes, as they are very cheap and comfortable. But many end up in the seas, with a good portion of ocean flops made from flop waste. Avoid brands made with plastic or old tyres (these still contain plastic that leaches if they drop in the sea – or for garden use).
Sea Sense make very comfortable natural rubber flops. This brand promise no blisters and also use profits to help clean up the oceans. For near the sea, choose brands made with naturally biodegradable Fair Trade rubber like these
The brand was founded by a marine biologist who spends around 99% of his life in flops. After working for 15 years throughout the world, he has been campaigning for most of that time on the dangers of plastic pollution, since discovering that 3 million people buy flops each year. Send old flops for recycling.
Waves Flops is the other main brand of natural rubber flops. Made from certified rubber, these are sold in styles for men, women and unisex (sizes 3 to 11). The natural rubber in the toe straps has high tensile strength, so these flops are unlikely to crack, snap or pop out like synthetic straps. They gradually compact and mould in different areas, depending on your gait.
Ocean Sole is a Kenyan social enterprise that gives jobs to an area that suffers 40% unemployment, to collect discarded flops and turn them into colourful art. This has provided steady income to nearly 100 people locally and recycles around a 1 million flops per year and saves over 500 trees yearly by avoiding wood to make statues.
natural cork flops (with a rubber base)
These natural cork flops with natural rubber base are made by artisans in Bali. Perfecct for the pool, beach or lounging around at home, the sole has excellent grip so perfect for sailing, walking or pottering in the garden. The cork makes them lightweight, comfortable and easy to clean.
