Also known as thongs or flip-flops, rubber slippers are simple and fun footwear that is ideal for beaches and other casual settings. Popular all over the world, referring to the rubber flip-flops as rubber slippers is particularly common in Hawaii and other Polynesian settings. The slippers can be worn by people of any age or gender, making them one of the few truly universal forms of footwear on the market today.
In construction, basic rubber slippers are very simple. The body of these rubber shoes is nothing more than the a comfortable sole; the foot rests on the sole, which is secured to the front area of the foot in one of two ways. The traditional design includes a simple band that spans the top of the foot in the area between the instep and the toes. Attached to this band is a small loop that fits neatly between the big and second toes. The heel of the slipper is left open, allowing it to flop as the individual walks.
While very similar to sandals, rubber slippers are considered a different type of footwear. The main difference between the two casual shoes is that sandals tend to encase more of the front of the foot, including the toes and the instep. In addition, there may or may not be the loop between the first two toes of the foot. Sandals may also lace up, rather than simply slide onto the foot in the manner that rubber slippers do.
Simple in design, the rubber slippers slide onto the foot with ease and can also be removed with equal ease. This makes them ideal for wearing while walking along the beach or around a pool area. The sole of the summer shoe protects the feet from direct contact with hot sand or concrete. At the same time, the shoes can be kicked off when it is time to dive into the water.
Flip-flops are also ideal for wearing around the house in warm weather, as they allow the feet to breathe with ease. Many people prefer to wear rubber slippers when shopping during the summer months, as they make the ideal footwear to go along with t-shirts and shorts. While it is frowned upon in many quarters, there are people who choose to wear socks along with the slippers. However, the vast majority of people prefer to wear flip-flops with no other type of foot covering present.
Along with being simple in design, Hawaiian rubber slippers are often available in a wide range of colors and patterns. Many manufacturers produce and sell the slippers for extremely low prices. This makes the summer footwear affordable for everyone, including people on tight budgets. The slippers can be purchased at many different types of retail stores, including drugstores, supermarkets, and discount retail stores.