Flip-flops are some of the most commonly worn footwear. Comfortable and light, they are equally easy to put on and wear for prolonged periods of time, especially during the summer.
However, flip-flops also make a lot of noise, which many find downright annoying. If you’re among them but you’d still like to wear this type of footwear anyway, read on. Here is how to keep them from making (too much) noise.
1. Only Wear Quality Flip-Flops
Although you might think that all flip-flops are created equal, that is not the case. In fact, the cheapest pairs typically make a lot more noise than quality models that are also pricier.
In most cases, flip-flops made of hard plastic will make the most noise. On the other hand, those with softer soles (manufactured from rubber, for example) will be quieter no matter the surface you are walking on.
So, to make sure you are as soundless as possible in your flip-flops, it is essential to buy a quality pair. Even though they will be more expensive, the splurge will definitely be worth it, considering the benefits.
2. Ensure They Fit Perfectly
Many people make the mistake of buying flip-flops that are either a size too big or too small for them. After all, flip-flops aren’t really form-fitting shoes, so few people bother to get the sizing exactly right.
However, while such an error won’t make the flip-flops less comfortable, it might just ensure they are louder. With more room for your feet to slide against the material, the possibility of excess sound is greater.
Therefore, when shopping for flip-flops, take the time to find the exact fit for your feet. The straps should feel snug against your foot without causing discomfort, so that everything stays in place while you walk.
3. Consider Your Walking Technique
When wearing flip-flops, the vast majority of people drag their feet against the ground. As a result, the soles make noise because of friction, especially if the surface beneath them is harder.
Similarly, if you bring your feet down against the ground with a lot of force, the soles of your flip-flops will make more noise than usual. That is especially the case for those made of plastic.
The solution to both of these issues is just slightly correcting your walking technique. In the case of the first problem, you’d simply need to lift your feet a bit higher off the ground while walking. That way, they wouldn’t drag against the surface, and your steps would get quieter.
As for the latter issue, it’s all about walking a bit softer. For example, you could try landing on your toes more instead of stomping your entire foot down with each step. By doing so, you’d reduce the pressure of your feet against the surface and, by extension, the ensuing noise.
It’s important to note that changing habits in this way isn’t an easy feat to accomplish. You will have to be patient, persistent, and actively think about your walking technique to ensure that the improvements stick. Still, once you get the hang of it, the comfort and silence will make the effort worthwhile.
4. Walk Slower
Another habit change that you can incorporate into your routine is walking slower and taking smaller steps. A lot of the time, doing so might be just what you need to make your flip-flops quieter.
Once again, this method won’t be that easy to use right away, especially if you typically take bigger steps and love going fast. However, it’s worth trying, as the results could surprise you.
5. Soften the Soles
If you don’t want to adjust your walking technique in any way, you could try tinkering with the soles of your flip-flops instead. If you can soften them, you might ensure they don’t make as much noise.
Now, you can go about it in any way you want. A good example includes placing a soft fabric against the soles and gluing it in place. This fabric can be anything from leather to linen, as long as it won’t make too much noise when it rubs against the ground.
You should note, though, that this trick might make wearing the flip-flops less comfortable. Namely, the soles will not be as smooth anymore, so taking steps could be less steady.
6. Choose Your Surface Wisely
Have you tried adjusting your walking style and still made a lot of noise? Sometimes, the problem might be connected to the surface beneath you instead of the footwear you have on.
For example, walking on gravel and tiles will cause a lot more noise than stepping on a carpet or grass. The softness of these surfaces will absorb much of the sound that your flip-flops make against them, and your steps will be quieter.
Naturally, you cannot avoid harder surfaces forever. Still, you can make your life easier by getting a carpet at home or at least picking a different type of footwear when going outside.
7. Wear Socks
This trick is quite unpopular, but it definitely works. All you really need to make your flip-flops quieter is to wear socks with them. You can do that both inside and outside, with excellent results.
Now, wearing socks with this type of footwear isn’t the most comfortable thing in the world (nor stylish, for that matter). The strap will resist the intrusion, so the flip-flops might not fit as well as they otherwise would.
However, the softness of the socks will do wonders to absorb excess noise. If that’s your main concern when wearing them inside your home, look no further for a solution.
Naturally, this method won’t really work that well in summer — unless you have AC in your house or apartment. So, bear in mind that your feet will feel significantly hotter.
8. Make the Soles Stickier
Another way to make sure the backs of your flip-flops do not hit the ground too hard is to ensure their soles are stickier. You can achieve this in two different ways depending on what you have at hand.
First, you can apply a healthy layer of hairspray on the bottom of the soles. The chemicals will make the material sticky (especially plastic), so it will adhere to the ground more.
Alternatively, you can stick a strip of double-stick tape to achieve the same effect. Just make sure it is not too thick so that it doesn’t make walking uncomfortable.
Now, these solutions are only temporary. The hairspray will wear off, and the tape will get dirty enough to not be sticky anymore. But if all you want is a quick fix that will work for a short time, this is the one for you.
9. Buy a Pair With a Back Strap
Even though some call them sandals, there are flip-flops with back straps on the market. As their name suggests, they have a supporting strap that hugs the top of your heel and ensures the flip-flop stays in place while you walk.
As such, these flip-flops are not as easy to slip on and off as those without the back strap. With that said, they offer all the freedom of regular models without as much noise, so they are definitely worth considering.
10. Go for a Different Type of Footwear
Last but not least, there is always the option of simply foregoing flip-flops altogether. Namely, if the noise bothers you so much and nothing you try really works, it might be best to find something else to wear.
Sandals, espadrilles, slip-ons, and boat shoes are all worthy replacements to try out. Again, finding the perfect size and fit will be the key to keeping them quieter, as well as making some adjustments to your walking style.
To Sum Up
Flip-flops are lightweight and comfortable, making them the perfect footwear for both the summer and lounging at home all year round. However, they can definitely get too loud when you walk in them, especially on harder surfaces.
To take quieter steps, consider buying a quality pair and take more controlled steps. Alternatively, you can get a model with back straps, soften the soles, and aim to only wear them on softer surfaces.
Hopefully, all these tips will help you find the best solution for your own flip-flops. And if not, you can always steer clear of them altogether and opt for other footwear that won’t make that much noise.
RELATED POSTS: