Ever walked into a UK shop and wondered why the staff kept mentioning British thongs when you were looking for flip‑flops? You’re not alone. The word "thong" means something completely different across the pond, and getting it right can save you an awkward moment (or a pair of mismatched sandals). This guide breaks down exactly what the British call thongs, how the term evolved, and which other sandal names you’ll hear on the streets of London, Manchester, and beyond.
What Americans Call "Thongs"
In the United States, a Thong is a type of sandal with a Y‑shaped strap that goes between the big toe and the second toe. They’re the classic beach‑ready, cheap‑as‑chips footwear you toss in a suitcase for a sunny getaway. Most Americans simply call them "thongs" or "flip‑flops" interchangeably.
British Terminology: The Real Meaning of "Thongs"
Cross the Atlantic, and "thong" takes on a completely different identity. In the UK, a Thong (footwear) refers to a flat, open‑toed sandal that resembles what Americans call a flip‑flop. British shoppers will ask for "thongs" when they want the cheap, rubber‑sole slip‑ons you’d wear to the beach or a backyard BBQ.
Why the Same Word Means Two Different Things
The word "thong" originally described a narrow strip of leather or fabric. In the early 20th century, British shoemakers used a thin leather thong to secure sandals, and the term stuck. Across the ocean, the Y‑shaped strap design became popular in the 1950s, and the name transferred to that style. So, the same root word branched out into two distinct footwear vocabularies.
Regional Variations Within the UK
Even within the United Kingdom, the slang changes a bit:
- England: "Thongs" is universal, but you might also hear "flip‑flops"-especially among younger people who have been exposed to American media.
- Scotland: The same term applies, though older generations sometimes use "sandals" for any open‑toed shoe.
- Wales and Northern Ireland: "Thongs" remains the go‑to word, but you’ll also find the word "jandals" used in tourist areas, borrowed from New Zealand.
Other Common UK Sandal Names
Knowing "thongs" is just the start. Here are the most frequently heard sandal terms in British shops:
Sandals is a broad category covering any open‑toed, open‑heeled footwear, from dressy leather straps to casual rubber soles.
Jandals is the New Zealand term for flip‑flops, often used by tourists and some UK retailers.
Plimsolls are canvas shoes with a rubber sole, commonly called "sneakers" in the UK.
Boots cover the ankle or higher, ranging from fashion Chelsea boots to utilitarian work boots.
Chelsea boots are close‑fitting ankle boots with elastic side panels, a staple in British street style.
Sneakers are casual athletic shoes, known as "trainers" in the UK.
Slingbacks are shoes with a strap that goes around the back of the heel, often seen in formal British attire.
Comparison Table: US vs UK Footwear Slang
| American Term | British Equivalent | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Thongs | Thongs | Flat rubber sandal, Y‑strap between toes |
| Flip‑flops | Thongs (or flip‑flops) | Casual beach sandal, often interchangeable |
| Sandals | Sandals | Any open‑toed, open‑heeled shoe |
| Espadrilles | Espadrilles | Canvas or cotton shoe with rope sole |
| Sneakers | Sneakers / Trainers | Casual athletic footwear |
| Boots | Boots | Footwear covering the ankle or higher |
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
1. Ordering the wrong product online. If a UK retailer lists "thongs" but you need a sporty Y‑strap sandal, double‑check the product photos. Many British "thongs" are plain rubber flip‑flops, but some are more fashion‑forward leather versions.
2. Using American slang in conversation. Saying "I bought some thongs" to a Brit might lead to a puzzled look if they think you mean the under‑garment. Add a quick clarification-"the sandal kind"-and you’ll be fine.
3. Confusing sizes. UK shoe sizes are measured differently from US sizes (a UK men’s 9 is roughly a US 10). When ordering "thongs" online, consult the retailer’s size conversion chart.
4. Assuming "sandals" always means cheap beach wear. In the UK, "sandals" also cover high‑end leather strappy shoes worn at weddings. Context matters.
Key Takeaways
- In Britain, "thongs" are the standard term for flip‑flops.
- The word originates from a narrow leather strap used in early sandal design.
- Regional variations are minor-"jandals" appear in tourist spots, while "sandals" covers all open‑toed styles.
- Know the size conversion: UK size = US size - 1 (men’s) or - 2 (women’s).
- When chatting with locals, say "thongs (the sandal kind)" to avoid any embarrassment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are British "thongs" the same as American flip‑flops?
Yes. In the UK, "thongs" is the everyday word for the rubber‑sole sandals Americans call flip‑flops. The design is virtually identical-flat sole, thong strap between the toes.
Do Brits ever use the word "flip‑flops"?
You’ll hear "flip‑flops" occasionally, especially among younger people or in marketing copy, but "thongs" remains the dominant term in everyday conversation.
What’s the difference between "sandals" and "thongs" in the UK?
"Sandals" is the umbrella category for any open‑toed shoe, from dressy leather pairs to sporty athletic styles. "Thongs" are a specific type of sandal with a single thong strap between the toes.
Can I buy "thongs" online from a UK retailer if I’m in the US?
Yes, many UK retailers ship internationally. Just watch the size guide-UK sizes run a step smaller than US sizes. Also, check the product images to confirm the style you want.
Why do some Brits say "jandals"?
"Jandals" comes from New Zealand English. In the UK it’s a niche term used mainly in holiday resorts and by brands that want an exotic-sounding name for flip‑flops.