Don't be so 'flippant' about your shoes

With just a few more weeks left of winter, you'll soon be able to throw those clunky boots back into the closet. And, before you know it, it will be warm enough to get good use out of those convenient and funky flip-flops of yours. Have to go run an errand? Throw on the "flips." Bringing the trash outside? Throw on the "flips." Spending the entire day shopping downtown? Hmmm...this may be one of those instances where the "flips" may be more flop, and more sensible shoes are a better option.

Flip-flops offer almost no support to your feet and ankles, so traipsing around town for an extended period of time in flip-flops isn't really the best idea. Constantly wearing them can potentially lead to tendinitis or even metarsalagia -- the inflammation of the joints located in the ball of the foot. Moreover, flip-flops offer very little protection against sharp objects such as rocks, glass, or metal; leaving your feet vulnerable to injury.

While it is important to let your feet "breathe," flip-flops are footwear best worn during times of relaxation, not when you plan to spend the day walking.