New Yorkers Respond To ‘Wearing Flip-flops Is Like Walking Barefoot’ Debate: ‘It Is Comfy’

A video showcasing a woman’s aversion to flip flops in New York City has sparked a heated online debate. The 25-year-old Selena Audrey highlighted her distaste for the loose footwear, comparing it to going barefoot over the city’s streets.

Audrey stated, “You’re basically walking barefoot through New York City at that point. To me, it’s like walking on the bare concrete. Your feet get so dirty.” She clarified that the reason behind recording the video was her fear of germs. “The idea of getting my feet dirty weirded me out at that moment, so I just turned my camera on and talked about it,” she stated to The Post.

Audrey said that, in the right circumstances, she liked wearing flip-flops despite her criticism. “I love flip flops. I love a good one dollar flip flop sale at Old Navy – I get them in every color. I love them so much, but I’m wearing them to the pool or to the beach or to run errands, I’m not wearing them on dirty New York City concrete,” she added.

The video received backlash from many who questioned Audrey’s authenticity as a New Yorker. “This has never been a thing. At this point, the transplants are making up their own outrage. Just carry some baby wipes and wipe your feet down. You’ll be alright,” one Instagram user commented, as quoted by The Post. Another urged, “Girl hush and wash your feet when you get home.” A flip flop enthusiast remarked, “When you live in Manhattan, it’s your island, live that island life!”

After a barrage of critical remarks, Audrey took down the video. But after being posted by the well-known Instagram account New Yorkers, it kept making the rounds.

Flip-flops have changed from being seen as cheap, casual shoes to becoming a stylish accessory. Nowadays, brands provide a range of styles, such as platform and heeled versions. Platform flip flops saw a 255% spike in Google searches this spring, according to The Business of Fashion, who were quoted by The Post.

Maya Williams, 38, highlighted their convenience and style, noting, “You just slip them on and that’s why a lot of people wear flip flops, and a lot of them are cute,” while wearing a $400 Versace pair. Kinga Adamowicz, 48, who owns 10 pairs, commented, “The city is considered a little dirtier I guess but I can just go home and wash my feet so I don’t mind it as much.”

Men also participate in the trend. Ismali Hassan, 79, expressed his comfort, telling the Post, “For me, I don’t care anymore. I’m comfortable,” while sporting a pair of HEYDUDE flip flops.