Fugly Footwear

It's that time of year again - the time where people break out the summer gear, and the time where a shockingly large number of DC residents wear flip-flops during their commutes to and from work. 

I'm not talking about sandals that have a thong design.  Those are not flip-flops.  I'm talking about the all-rubber/plastic, slappy variety that lacks any semblance of stiffness or support in its structure.

I understand the appeal of flip-flops. For many, they are comfortable - more comfortable than any other footwear they own.  But as far as I can see, that's the only benefit to flip-flops.  And there's one massive drawback:

They are fugly as all git-out. 

Shoes don't necessarily have to enhance your appearance, but isn't it possible to find something to wear on your feet that is functional, comfortable AND good-looking?  It's time to face the facts: flip-flops do not add to an outfit, they do not enhance the appearance of one's feet, and they make an annoying sound.  On top of all that it is more difficult to run or walk fast in flip-flops than in other sandals/footwear.  Running for the train in those must be an adventure. 

To the flop-wearing populace: as long as you know they make your feet and outfit look uglier, by all means slap away.   I hope I'm not telling you anything you hadn't already figured out. 

For whatever reason, people in DC never seem to put away their flip-flops.  I've seen flip-flops at least once during my commute just about every week this year.  Don't these people get cold feet when it's 40 degrees out?  Isn't it kinda nasty to wade through wet days in them when you live in a city with all the filth and grime?

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