Flip Flops in Ireland: What Works, What Doesn’t, and Why Locals Avoid Them

When people think of flip flops, a type of open-toed sandal with a flat sole and a Y-shaped strap. Also known as thongs, they’re designed for warm, dry climates where walking on hot pavement or beach sand is the norm. In Ireland, that’s not the reality. Flip flops show up in June, disappear by September, and rarely survive a single week of rain. They’re not just impractical—they’re a quick way to get cold feet, wet socks, and a sore back from poor support.

Irish weather doesn’t care about trends. Rain comes without warning, streets stay damp for days, and even summer days can turn chilly by 4 p.m. That’s why the most worn shoe in Ireland isn’t a designer sandal—it’s a waterproof walking shoe, a durable, closed-toe shoe built for wet terrain, uneven cobblestones, and constant dampness. Brands like Clarks, Birkenstock (with closed backs), and local Irish favourites like O’Neill’s dominate because they keep feet dry, warm, and stable. Flip flops offer none of that. No arch support. No grip on wet surfaces. No protection from puddles that hide potholes or sharp stones.

Some people wear flip flops on rare sunny days at the coast—maybe in Doolin or Howth—but even there, you’ll see more people in sandals with straps around the heel or quick-dry sneakers. Why? Because Ireland’s coastline isn’t just sand and sun. It’s wind, sudden spray, and slippery rocks. Flip flops slip off. They don’t protect toes from cold seawater. They don’t handle a 10-minute walk from the car to the pub when the sky opens up.

And it’s not just about weather. Irish culture values practicality over flash. You won’t see a 70-year-old woman in flip flops walking her dog in Galway. You won’t see a dad in Dublin wearing them to drop kids off at school. You won’t even see them in tourist hotspots like Trinity College—locals know better. The truth? Flip flops in Ireland are a temporary fashion experiment, not a lifestyle choice.

If you’re visiting and thinking of packing them, ask yourself: What’s the point? You’ll spend more time drying them out than wearing them. Instead, bring a pair of lightweight, water-resistant casual trainers, a type of everyday shoe used for walking, commuting, and light activity in Ireland. Also known as trainers, they’re the real national shoe. They dry fast, grip wet surfaces, and look fine in cafes, parks, or on the bus. You’ll be warmer, safer, and more comfortable.

Flip flops have their place—but not here. Ireland’s footwear culture is built on resilience, not just style. The posts below dig into what people actually wear when the rain comes, why trainers beat sneakers, how to pick shoes that last through winter, and what local brands are worth your money. Skip the flip flops. Choose something that works.