POLL: Has Flip Flop Season Started?

The forecast has high temperatures above the 70s in the foreseeable future, so Patch wants to know how casual your wardrobe is getting–specifically your footwear.   

According to a story on Gawker, proper etiquette puts the flip flop season from April through September in most places. But our spring has been a bit cool, and we're still seeing leather-clad feet all around.

Once the popular thonged soles appear, according to Gawker, they're only proper around the house or on vacation.

Many college students don't seem to have gotten that message.

Back in 2005, a few members of the Northwestern University national championship women's lacrosse team caused a stir when they wore flip flops with their dresses during a visit to the White House. It was a national flip-flop flap, according to USA Today.

Nwi.com reports sandalous (yes, that's a made up word) footwear can create longterm health problems and a less-than-appealing appearance–from ankle injuries to bunions and hammer toes. Additionally, reports Nwi, the earlier a person starts wearing flip flops on a regular basis, the higher the risk of long-term orthotic problems.

But never fear, you sandaled sole-diers (again…), USA Today reported in 2010 that researchers at the University of Louisiana-Lafayette found a distinction between the safe and more dangerous summer shoes. According to the study, arch-supported flip-flops allow you to walk more normally, while cheap, flat flip-flops can cause unnecessary strain and often muscle pain.

"The less flip in your flop, the better it is for your feet and legs," Justin Shroyer, assistant professor of kinesiology at ULL, told USA Today.

Still, cheap has its fans, especially in the carefree days just around the corner.

When do you think it's appropriate to wear flip flops? Vote in the poll below or tell us in the comments.