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Click here to follow AskMen Fashion on Twitter. A wise man once said there are three sides to every story: your side, their side
and the truth. And when it comes to summers favorite footwear, that advice
couldnt be more relevant. If we had it our way, we would bare 10 toes 365 days a
year, a flip-flop devotee until the end. But the fashion mags and style elitists mock this comfortable creation as a
sad product of stylistic surrender. In reality, the fate of the flip-flop exists somewhere
between these extremes. You cant deny the ease and practicality of flip-flops, yet
you have to acknowledge that showing skin isnt appropriate for every situation --
even when the mercury tops 90. Thats why this collection of dos and donts is specially designed to help you hoof
it in the heat.
flip-flop dos
Be buffed
Summer is the season where our feet come out to play in public for friends, family and
strangers alike. A DIY clip-and-scrub is mandatory. Always keep an eye out for open sores
and blisters. Theyre a surefire sign you need to switch to shoes -- stat.
Find ones that fit
You can hear the slip-slap sound of a pair thats too big from a mile away. And
seeing the embarrassing toe-curl created by a pair thats smaller than it should be
isnt much better. Sizing can be tricky since flip-flops are typically made in
ranges to cover half sizes (like 9-10 or 11-12). The rule: They should extend just past
your heel. Pick a pair closest to your sneaker size, and always remember to try them on
first.
Replace frequently
Unlike a leather lace-up or even a canvas-clad slip-on, your flip-flop collection needs
to be replenished every summer. Its not just to capture the latest trend -- though thats an added perk. The reason you need to stock
up on an annual basis is because a flimsy flip-flop simply cant hold up to repeated
beatings by sun, surf and sand. And yes, while restocking does depend on how often you
decide to throw on your thongs, dropping a few extras bucks on a fresh set each beach
season will ensure theyre never gnarly -- or worse, whittled paper-thin.
Rub 'em down
Flip-flops have a relatively short lifespan a single season could (and probably
should) end in their demise. Fortunately, a little care can extend their days. Wipe your
flip-flops with a clean, damp cloth after each use. For models fashioned in foam, which
bruises easily, a bath of soap and water is what works. When it doesnt, toss 'em in
the trash. Read on for our flip-flop don'ts...
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