Flip flop and sock recommendations for foot and leg issues

[TravelingChris]

I know I saw a recent recommendation for good flip flops if you have issues with your feet.  I have so many all related to my RA and Ankolysing Spondylosis.  I know someone on here recommended a great brand for plantar fascites or something similar.  

A second recommendation request is for very soft socks that aren't too long for my foot (8.5 shoe) but are very wide and non binding for my calf (which is swollen and super sensitive, more so than just my regular neuropathy).  We are in the 30's tonight and generally it is getting colder and I really need to have more than two pairs of socks that I can wear that don't add to my bad pain already.

[Pen]

Oofos 

[NewIma]

Vionic flip flops are amazing for foot issues 

[Pen]

Socks, I got some super soft Xmas socks as stocking stuffers last year.  Idk what they are exactly but they are super soft plush and good to sleep in

[Pen]

Kinda like :

Womens Fuzzy Socks - Plush Slipper Socks Winter Warm Fuzzy Crew Socks Fluffy Cozy Christmas 3D Animal Socks https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07ZGBJXL2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_JN9NFbW2Y0DSF?psc=1

but not exactly these so not sure these big enough... 

[Pen]

Maybe men fuzzy fleece socks to be looser

[mom31257]

Sending you a message. 

[Monica_in_Switzerland]

I would be concerned with flip flops because "operating" a flip flop requires a mild toe clench at each step, same for Birkenstocks.  Look for models with a thong that goes around the back of the heel so that the foot can be completely relaxed as you walk.  

Reference- Either Move Your DNA by Katy Bowman or possibly her foot-specific book, can't remember which one.  

[Acadie]

I came on here to recommend Oofos, and like Monica I'd be concerned flip flops could aggravate foot issues. I've had to return Chacos with toe loops because they gave me serious foot pain.

But the good news is Oofos has slides that go over your whole foot. I recently bought these from Amazon and LOVE them. They are super cushy but also have some arch support which I need due to flat feet and a tendency to plantar fasciitis. I really like that I can wear them with or without socks. They have lots of different colors, but I'd avoid the ones that have a color layered on, because some reviews said it cracks or peels. I have the solid navy ones which are very cute and seem to go with everything.

OOFOS - Unisex OOahh - Post Exercise Active Sport Recovery Slide Sandal

[PeterPan]

If you look for products that are labeled diabetic (socks, slippers), they'll be cut looser/wider. My dad wears diabetic socks. They might not come in very warm, but they'll be socks. They also make a very comfortable wrap slipper for diabetics. Try Zappos.

In another direction, if you have someone who is crafty to sew for you, you can look for *primaloft* batting and have them make you a lap blanket. I've made a couple with it. The batting comes with a scrim and is sold by the yard. The scrim means you can tie it, whatever, making it easy to work with. I had made them for my grandma when she was in the nursing home many years with dementia, and I have it now. It's the absolute warmest stuff you can imagine. I used to say socks just kept the cold in, hahaha. With the primaloft, you'll warm right up. 

https://www.seattlefabrics.com/Insulations_c_59.html  This *might* be where I ordered it, don't remember. LLBean also sells products made with it, but I don't know if they're as powered as buying the batting separately. They measure it with a col value, so that's what you can compare. Conceivably you could make slipper boots, a vest, anything you want. I first saw it in hunting stores because they were putting it in gloves. It's AMAZING stuff, worth the effort. 

Edited November 2, 2020 by PeterPan

[itsheresomewhere]

Fitflops are my favorite.

For socks-  not a sock you could wear with shoes but around the house. Muk Luks makes these wonderful winter socks that you can also get a slipper sole attached.  They are warm, comfortable and worth every penny.  They do have regular socks but I haven’t tried them.  Asics makes a nice regular sock for wide feet.  

[Carol in Cal.]

Fitflops are my fave.  They have some arch support but are softer/cushier than the typical heavy arch support sandals.

For socks I recommend getting ankle socks instead of athletic sock length, and buying double layer ones.   Those are the warmest to me. The brand I like best is Wrightsock, from REI.

[prairiewindmomma]

I have several different styles of Vionic sandals. The Tide II style are what I wear on especially bad foot days. I need the semi-rigid arch support in the arch and the deep heel cup for the plantar fasciitis.

Do you know if your PF is just being triggered by residual inflammation and breakdown of your fascia or if you also have some metatarsals that are a mess in your mid-foot? We RA people tend to have issues there others don’t. If you do, go for as wide of a toe box as possible, but also look into teardrop metatarsal pads ($8 on amazon) as something to try.

Edited November 2, 2020 by prairiewindmomma

[SeaConquest]

Hoka also makes flip flops.