You're here because you're asking "why do my feet turn black when I wear flip flops?". Here are some of the key factors that contribute to the issue of your feet turning black while wearing flip flops:

1. Lack of Coverage: Flip-flops and sandals typically provide minimal coverage for your feet, exposing them to dust, dirt, and various environmental elements. This is especially true of super thin or flat flip flops. When you walk or stand in outdoor areas, your feet can accumulate dirt and debris, which may darken the soles of your feet. Tidewater flip flops are 1 inch in height, which will help reduce this problem.

2. Inadequate Protection: Unlike closed-toe shoes, flip-flops and sandals do not offer substantial protection against external contaminants. Your feet are more susceptible to coming into contact with dirt, mud, and other particles, leading to the accumulation of grime.

3. Friction and Rubbing: When you wear flip-flops or sandals, your feet may experience friction and rubbing against the shoe's sole or footbed. This can cause the natural shedding of dead skin cells, leading to a temporary blackening of the feet.

5. Sweat and Moisture: Feet can sweat, even in open footwear like flip-flops. The combination of sweat and dirt can create a slurry that sticks to your feet, contributing to the blackening effect.

6. Lack of Arch Support: Some flip-flops and sandals may lack proper arch support and cushioning, resulting in an uneven distribution of pressure on your feet, potentially causing discomfort and friction that darkens the skin. Tidewater Sandals all feature a biomechanical arch support feature, which will help reduce black feet while wearing our flip flops.

7. Material and Quality: The materials used in producing flip-flops and sandals can vary in quality. Cheaper, low-quality materials may not be as resistant to dirt and staining, making it easier for your feet to become discolored. Rest assured, we use the highest quality materials in production, unlike those Tidewater dupes you're seeing on Amazon.

To prevent your feet from turning black while wearing flip-flops or sandals, consider taking the following measures:

1. Keep your feet clean and dry before putting on your open-toe footwear.

2. Choose flip-flops and sandals with good quality materials and designs that offer better protection and support.

3. Use a foot scrub or pumice stone to exfoliate your feet regularly, removing dead skin cells that can contribute to the issue.