Beach Flip Flops

• Most beach flip flops contain little structure or support. 

  Many manufacturers make beach flip flops for men, including Rainbow, Reef, Croc, Havaianas, Roxy, Sanuk and Quicksilver. They're all inexpensive and lightweight. Many people buy them for vacations, but they make excellent shoes for around the house; some men use them instead of house shoes or slippers. They can be purchased online, at retail stores and in beach shops that cater to tourists. Flip flops from brands like Rainbow and Reef sometimes serve a purpose beyond fashion. Men who surf, for example, need an apres-surf flip flop that feels good and allows them to go easily from beach to urban terrain.

Sports Flip Flops

• Sports flip flops are used by men and women before and after their main event. Steve Mason/Valueline/Getty Images

  Sports flip flops are often more expensive than their beach counterparts, but they're also more durable and slightly dressier. Some are quite stylish and are appropriate attire for summer parties, picnics and other casual outings. Top manufacturers are Nike, Adidas, Puma and Teva. These shoes are available online, at many local and national retailers, and in many higher end beachside stores. Men often wear sport flip flops after a game, replacing their running shoes or soccer cleats with a flip flop that releases their feet from the confining elements of a normal shoe.

Draino Sandal

• A boat is a great place for a draino sandal.

  Cobian makes Draino sandals that are perforated so the soles drain and vent. This helps prevent slips and slides and also reduces blistering on the feet. Available in a variety of colors, these sandals are great for wearing on the beach, on a boat, around a swimming pool, while washing the car and in other instances where your feet come in contact with a lot of water.

Thongs

• Thong is another word for flip flop.

  Thongs, another term for flip flops, refers to the strap style of the shoe. The terms are interchangeable when you're shopping. The styles range from inexpensive plastic shoes to more durable, long lasting rubber soles with canvas straps. These shoes are popular around the world. Flip flops/thongs come in every color. Many are also printed or patterned. Some are printed with the manufacturer's logo and they can also be bought with the names of sports teams on them.