Flip-flops are a simple type of footwear. They are a thin rubber sole with two straps running in a Y shape from the sides of the foot to the gap among the big toe and its neighbour. The popular use of flip-flops as beach or outdoor wear has spread through much of the world. Flip-flops are also popular with those who enjoy being barefoot but need to wear shoes, because they allow the foot to be out in the open but still constitute a shoe for wear in places such as restaurants or on city streets, and can be quickly and easily removed. They are also popular because they are easy to carry and come in an assortment of colours and patterns.
Regional names
In India, flip-flops are referred to as chappal. Along the east coast of the US flip-flops are sometimes referred to as zories. They are known as jandals in New Zealand, thongs in Australia, Plakkies and slip-slops (or just slops) in South Africa, and go-aheads in the South Pacific. In parts of Texas they are known as clam diggers because of the way they flip sand on a beach. In Brazil called chinelo, sandália or Havaianas. In the Philippines they are mostly called tsinelas. In Hawaii and several other places around the world, they are commonly called slippers. In Greece they are known as sayonares (σαγιονάρες), probably from the japanese word sayōnara, that means goodbye, because of their japanese origin. In Poland they are commonly called japonki which indicates their japanese origin. In Russia and Ukraine they are sometimes called lapti.
Flip-flops are perfect for hot weather; they have been the fashion hit of the summer.
''Among the delights of summer were picnics to the woods.''