Thong sandals
Thong or Toe-Post Sandals are similar to flip-flops, but have a heel. This type of shoe is mostly worn as a fashion item, or as evening wear. (Note: in Australia, Flip-Flops are referred to as 'thongs' and do not have a heel)
The 'thong' itself refers to the method by which the show is attached to the wearer's foot, normally this consists of a post which rises up from the sole of the shoe between the big toe and its nearest neighbour, at this point it normally 'splits' into two straps each of which rejoins the sole of the shoe on either side of the foot.
Sometimes the toe-post simply loops over the big toe forming a 'toe loop', in some cases this loop is made of a clear material to create the effect of no visible means of attachment.
Other designs include long ribbons which may be tied aroung the leg, much in the fashion of a roman sandal.
The main difference between thong sandals and other shoes is that practically the entire foot is visible, with the heel contributing to the impression of 'standing on tip-toes barefoot'. Thong sandals is do not crush the feet, as do many high heeled shoes.
Thong sandals splay the toes very slightly while the wearer is standing still, which is the natural form for the foot while standing in this position (on tip-toes)
When walking the toes are allowed to splay still more, as they should naturally, in order to distribute the weight they carry over a slightly wider area, and to maintain balance.
Other types of heeled shoes, namely those that enclose the toes, restrict this lateral movemment of the toes somewhat, making them less conducive to natural movement
The word 'thong' is thought by some etymologists to derive from the character from Greek mythology called Thon