20.10.2026 14:12
It has been claimed that giant clubs such as Real Madrid, Manchester City, and Bayern Munich have banned their players from wearing flip-flops. The reason is that the flip-flops force the toes into a constant gripping motion and do not provide sufficient sole support. According to experts, prolonged use of such flip-flops can increase foot pain in some people.
In world football, clubs keep many details under control, from training to nutrition and from sleep to rest, in order to protect the health of the players they add to their squads with investments of millions of euros. However, an ordinary type of flip-flop used by footballers in daily life has also become the subject of a remarkable debate.
The claim that the use of flip-flops is not allowed at the facilities of clubs such as Real Madrid, Manchester City and Bayern Munich is backed by the possible effects of these shoes on foot health.
IT KEEPS THE TOES CONSTANTLY WORKING
One of the most important features of flip-flops is that they do not have a back strap that secures the foot. Therefore, while walking, the toes can bend involuntarily to prevent the flip-flop from slipping off the foot. The repeated gripping motion can lead to fatigue and discomfort in the foot muscles, especially with prolonged use.
THE LACK OF ARCH SUPPORT CAN POSE A RISK
Thin and flat-soled flip-flops may not sufficiently support the arch of the foot. This can increase complaints, especially in people experiencing foot sole pain. Plantar fasciitis, which is associated with strain on the plantar fascia tissue in the sole of the foot, is among the common causes of heel pain. However, it cannot be said that wearing flip-flops alone causes plantar fasciitis.
ALSO A WARNING FOR THE ACHILLES TENDON
It is known that unsupportive shoes can change the way a person walks. These changes can affect the load distribution around the ankle and Achilles tendon in some people. However, there is no definitive evidence showing that wearing flip-flops directly causes Achilles ruptures or muscle tears on the field in footballers.