Comfy Review: Gumbies Cairns Flip-Flops*

We’re now coming out of what feels like a very long winter, so my thoughts are turning to long, lazy summer days – and trips to the beach.

To get me in the mood for the warmer weather, I’ve been trying out my new Cairns women’s flip-flops by Gumbies.

I usually pick up flip-flops as a last-minute buy just before heading on holiday. And these rushed (and cheap) purchases are never particularly comfy and don’t usually last very long – a classic example of throwaway fashion.

But Gumbies’ Cairns flip-flops are a completely different story.

Named and inspired by Cairns, the laid-back Australian city at the gateway to Queensland’s tropical north, this footwear is based on the iconic Gumbies sole unit. The Cairns flip-flops are designed to be hard-wearing, and to give great grip and stability when walking on rocks, slippery surfaces or even just around the pool.

With the cushioned, low-profile midsole, they were created to allow the wearer to explore in comfort for miles along rugged coastline or trails.

The footbed top layer is made of super-soft, yet durable, Jersey cotton poly mix. And the embossed Gumbies logo aims to allow airflow underfoot, while providing a good grip, aided by a formed cotton PU strap, to hold the foot firmly on the unit.

The style also features Gumbies’ soft cotton toe post, to guard against chafing and discomfort.

What I thought of the flip-flops

After receiving my Cairns flip-flops via Royal Mail, I could immediately see these were a quality product.

I chose the light blue because I felt this shade would work well with most of my summer wardrobe. But the two other colours available – pink and orange – would also go with most outfits.

After trying them on, I can confirm the flip-flops live up to their reputation for comfort. They also feel much more durable than the basic flip-flops I’ve worn in the past.

Plus, they look great. This footwear is stylish and works just as well with jeans as with shorts or swimwear. In fact, I wouldn’t feel out of place wearing my Cairns flip-flops in the bar after the beach or at a family barbecue.

Yes, Gumbies’ flip-flops cost a bit more than the lower quality alternatives available elsewhere, but I believe this brand is worth buying. After all, throwaway fashion is damaging for lots of reasons, not least because of its effect on the environment.

How much are the flip-flops and where can you buy them?

The flip-flops are £30 and are available to buy here.

Tips when choosing your size

The Cairns women’s flip-flops aren’t available in half sizes (except 6.5), so I chose a 6 (half a size bigger than my usual 5.5), and, thankfully, they fitted fine.

About Gumbies

Inspired by Australia and now worn around the world, the original Gumbies flip-flop is the result of one man’s quest to create the perfect flip-flop. The company was founded by Michel Maurer, who wanted his brand to reflect his passion for simplicity, necessity and freedom.

Gumbies sells a range of footwear for men and women, including sandals, slippers, and flip-flops.

The brand is committed to sustainability. It chooses the right materials to create the best possible products, which are lasting, fit for purpose, and have the least environmental impact.

All Gumbies products come in resealable/reusable bags, which are 100% recyclable. The company uses bags instead of boxes to reduce its shipping volumes by 50%, meaning less impact on the environment. Every order received is posted in a courier pack made from 100% recycled, post-consumer waste.

And when you buy any Gumbies product from gumbies.co.uk, the company will plant mangrove trees on your behalf in either Madagascar, Mozambique, or Kenya.

Review by Colette Warbrook

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*The product was gifted in return for a review. All opinions are our own.