By Mike Martins Explorebigsky.com Staff Writer
The flip flop hasn’t changed much since its origins by the ancient Egyptians in 4,000 BC. Prolonged use tends to lead to significant pain in the user’s feet, legs and ankles—at least that was the case until Orthaheel applied its Vionic sports recovery technology to the age-old footwear.
Orthaheel is a shoe and sandal company specializing in technology designed to heal and restore the natural alignment of the foot and ankle. I recently tried out the Men’s Bryce ($79.95) and put it to the test by logging miles on the beaches of Thailand and through the city streets of Seoul, South Korea.
The first thing I noticed was the comfort that usually takes a month or two of breaking in with typical flip flops. The Bryce immediately fit the shape of my foot. The Vibram soles gripped any trail I trucked, and the footbed cushioned every step.
Backed by the American Podiatric Medical Association and endorsed by Dr. Andrew Weil, a pioneer in integrative medicine, Orthaheel sandals are made from durable leather and have flexible, lightweight construction. Due to the footbed technology, they cannot be submerged in water.
Through sand, streets and many miles of airport alleyways, the Vionic Bryce by Orthaheel kept my journey pain free. Available in khaki or black/grey. Women’s model is the Cascade ($89.95).
orthaheelusa.com