The thongs are made out of an unbelievably comfortable, high quality foam material and really have a “wow” factor for anyone that tries them on. Once you get used to them, you will never want to take them off your feet and most people say that they simply cannot wear ‘normal thongs’ after wearing Archies Thongs!

What’s wrong with thongs?

Every summer we hear about the negative effects of flat-soled thongs. Many elite sports teams have even banned the wear of flat thongs! While we’re all aware flat-soled thongs are not great for our feet, what’s actually wrong with them?

A lack of support can be a problem for all foot types. However, this problem is amplified for those with increased pronation.

A small amount of pronation is an essential part of the gait cycle as it helps provide shock absorption and allows the foot to adapt to uneven surfaces, however, it becomes problematic when pronation is increased.

Normal thongs alter the way that stress and strain are absorbed through the body, which can potentially lead to injury. Issues arising from increased pronation are more common in people with flat feet, however it can occur in all foot types.

Common problems associated with increased pronation include bunions, plantar fasciitis as well as different forms of knee, hip and low back pain.

People with high arches are more likely to supinate (roll outwards) which can increase stress on the outside of the foot and leg. Arch support for this foot type can help better distribute pressure across the foot, potentially reducing stress and the likelihood of an injury.

Common problems associated with people with high arches include plantar fasciitis, bone stress related injuries, lateral shin problems and lateral knee problems.

Walking barefoot can be great, particularly if you have a musculoskeletal problem which may be benefit from strengthening the intrinsic muscles of the feet and leg.

Most people are fine walking barefoot around the house or in the backyard for short periods. However, at greater distances the issues mentioned above will likely become prevalent based on you foot type.

Normally, when you walk your toes are supposed to bend upwards, activating the arch of the foot which provides protection and support to the vital structures of the feet.

Unfortunately, most thongs have loose straps. This means that the wearer ends up clawing / scrunching their toes down just to try and keep the thongs on their feet. As a result the foot is susceptible to increased stress and strain which may lead to damage of some of the vital structures of the feet.

Flat thongs do not have heel elevation. Elevation can reduce stress on the Achilles tendon and can reduce the likelihood of developing Achilles tendinosis.

Typical thongs commonly have straps that are made out of hard plastic. This material can cause irritation and blisters. Plastic straps are also prone to breakage or having the plug pull through the base of the thong.