Sneakers are a staple and the type of footwear that promises ultimate comfort, but there comes a time when you require something breezy and open when the weather is hot. With plenty of options like slides and thongs, making the right choice can be a bit of a hassle.
At first glance, slides and thongs may seem similar. Both are types of sandals designed for easy wear, available for both men and women. However, some crucial differences set them apart. Knowing these differences can help you make an easier and better decision.u.
Slides vs. Thongs
Slides gained popularity during the 1970s, often associated with athletes like football players due to the comfort and protection they offered in locker rooms. Their transition to the fashion world wasn’t far behind, especially with brands like Gucci and Dolce & Gabbana showcasing them on runways.
One particular brand and model combination that the world of fashionistas went crazy about is the Yeezy slide slippers by none other internationally renowned celebrity than Kanye West. Available with and without straps, in various colours, and designs ranging in differences in thickness of the soles, and even the shape, you’ve got a vast array to pick from.
Thongs, known for their Y-strap separating the big toe from the rest, have been popular since the 1950s as the go-to sandals for the beach. They retain a casual flair, which is a significant difference from the more fashion-forward slides. Thongs have limited customisation options due to their minimalistic design.
Comfort
In terms of short-term comfort, both slides and thongs might seem comparable. However, long-term use reveals significant differences. Slides, like the Yeezy slide slippers, feature a footbed that moulds to your feet, providing optimal comfort for extended wear. This contoured, ergonomic design offers excellent support.
This isn’t to say about the thongs, especially if we view them from the point of view of their Y-strap feature that’s known to dig into the toe, causing a great deal of discomfort. Additionally, there’s a crucial difference in the support these two sandals offer; the slides are far better in terms of keeping your feet in place thanks to their incredible sturdy soles that are durable as much as they’re comfortable.
If you buy slides shoes like the Yeezy range, you can be sure that the high-quality materials used to make them, like synthetic foam and rubber, will give you better grip and stability and last longer, so you can wear them in a variety of settings and situations. The thongs, on the other hand, rub against your foot every time you walk, and since your weight is not evenly distributed, pressure points form.
They also tend to be made from low-quality materials, hence their lower price range. This in turn makes them less durable, and you’re highly likely to experience a thong break or accident as you make your way, especially after long use. Even if you come across thongs of better materials, they’d still be prone to breaking, particularly at the Y-strap, because of the design and thin structure itself.
Foot Health
Considering the crucial design differences, such as sole thickness, choice of material, and strap design, slides are a better choice for long-term foot health. They provide overall support, protect your feet from shock, and relieve pain in the feet and joints.
Style
When it comes to styling flexibility, slides again come at the top. While in some cultures, like the Brazilian, where their signature Havaianas can be seen at various locations and occasions, the thongs still retain their casual appeal which doesn’t leave you with much room for dressing up other than your casual outfits.
They may be available in different colours, and perhaps feature some accessories at the strap, but they tend to be rather limiting in what you can wear them with. This isn’t the case with slides footwear brands like Yeezy as they have a better aesthetic appeal.
Some have straps, others don’t, and there are those that have detachable straps, giving you plenty of flexibility in how and what you choose to wear them with. Some are even available in a variety of colourways, with and without the logo, giving them additional appeal.
And, there are even those Yeezys that are limited edition, leading to the hype. Wear them with your streetwear essentials, athletic wear, athleisure, or your more stylish ensembles, and you’ll see for yourself the fashionable potential they carry.
Conclusion
While both slides and thongs offer the convenience of easy wear, slides provide superior comfort, support, and style flexibility. If you’re looking for footwear that can transition from casual to fashionable and offer long-term foot health benefits, slides are the better choice. With various designs and premium materials, they can be a versatile addition to your wardrobe, suitable for multiple occasions and styles.
