Toes Out! National Flip Flop Day

Just in time for summer, Friday is National Flip Flop Day, which prompts Patch to ask: How much of a fan are you of flip flops and sandals?

Did you even know there was a day dedicated to their comfy goodness?

Every year, on the third Friday in June, people pay tribute to the ever-popular footwear, and now businesses are catching on to the trend.

Forida-based Tropical Smoothie celebrates by giving away smoothies to flip floppers in exchange for donations to charity.

Flip Out sandal company is celebrating with a buy one, get one free sale on Friday and Saturday.

But "flops" may not be for everyone.

Nwi.com reports sandalous (yes, that's a made up word) footwear can create long-term health problems and a less-than-appealing appearance–from ankle injuries to bunions and hammer toes. Additionally, reports Nwi, the earlier a person starts wearing flip flops on a regular basis, the higher the risk of long-term orthotic problems.

But never fear, you sandaled sole-diers (again…), USA Today reported in 2010 that researchers at the University of Louisiana-Lafayette found a distinction between the safe and more dangerous summer shoes. According to the study, arch-supported flip-flops allow you to walk more normally, while cheap, flat flip-flops can cause unnecessary strain and often muscle pain.

"The less flip in your flop, the better it is for your feet and legs," Justin Shroyer, assistant professor of kinesiology at ULL, told USA Today.

Still, cheap has its fans, especially in the carefree days just around the corner.

Will you be sporting flip flops or sandals this Friday? Tell us in the comments, and check out our video reprise from the spring, when the flip flops were just starting to make their colorful appearance.