As the mercury rises, so does the eternal question: what do we do with our sweaty, uncomfortable feet? For many, the answer has been the humble flip-flop, now elevated to high fashion with a kitten heel, according to trend forecaster Angela Baidoo. "It's not a high heel and it's really kind of easy to just slip in and slip out of," she says, presumably while strutting down a catwalk made of sand.

But let's address the elephant in the room: are flip-flops actually wrecking our feet? Podiatrist Dr Helen Branthwaite, chief clinical adviser at the Royal College of Podiatry, says it's "not accurate" to demonize them. The real danger, she explains, is going from structured shoes to flip-flops cold turkey, which strains your foot and invites injury. Over time, your foot may "splay a little bit," much like removing a corset and letting everything "hang out." Charming imagery, Doctor.

So what's a fashion-conscious, foot-health-conscious person to do? Baidoo recommends sturdier options like FitFlops, which offer contour and support - a far cry from the foam slabs of yore. Sliders are out; Crocs are in, especially among Gen Z, who apparently appreciate "anti-fashion" footwear that's "really comfy" and orthopedically designed. Birkenstocks offer similar footbed benefits, and wooden clogs are making a comeback, favored by doctors and chefs who know a thing or two about being on their feet. Scholl slider mules, the original orthopaedic shoe, even got a shout-out - Baidoo confesses to owning a pair in pink suede.

For those seeking height without agony, wedges provide support and a flattering ankle silhouette, particularly for plus-size clients, says Baidoo. And if you're feeling adventurous, why not try fisherman sandals? They're like something your history teacher wore in the 1970s, and you can even pair them with socks. "It's a really cool kind of style to adopt for women too," Baidoo insists.

Now, about those minimalist barefoot shoes: Branthwaite warns against going from zero to 5-mile hike overnight. Ease into them, she says, or your feet will stage a revolt.

Dr Branthwaite's top tips for foot care: inspect the sole material because it dictates foot movement; if you can fold your flip-flops in half, ask if you're strong enough to handle the extra load; check your feet regularly - open footwear can dry out skin, leading to firm heels and fragile toenails; lather daily in an emollient with urea; and get your feet measured often, because size 6 today might be size 7 tomorrow.

Now go forth and step into summer with confidence, or at least with properly moisturized heels.