Sure, old-school thongs will air out your toes and get you across the beach without first-degree burns, but don't expect them to help your feet recover from a hard run. Fortunately, thongs have evolved. To find the perfect post-run footwear, we tested pairs designed to give your feet the comfort and support they need – without cramping your style.

Merrell Gardena Thong A$159
We'd like to see you try to flip and flop in these women’s-only thong sandals. Several testers noted how snugly the adjustable upper strap held their arches. And the treated footbed was helpful in eliminating odour. merrell.com

Teva Mush A$39.95
A good alternative for the budget-conscious runner. Testers noted the lightweight Mush (28 grams) was comfortable although the footbed doesn’t supply as much cushioning as some of the other sandals on test. teva.com

North Face Base Camp Flip Flop $49.95
These thongs are all about comfort. The cushy bottom is loaded with foamy peaks and valleys that gently massage your feet, and the fabric strap feels great between your toes. One tester appreciated how the Base Camp hugged and massaged his feet, saying they made him “feel loved”. This is an ideal thong for mid- to high-arched feet, since the lightweight footbed isn't rigid enough to support low arches. thenorthface.com.au