Archies Arch Support Thongs at Malvern Physio, Malvern East

You can buy Archies arch support thongs at reception at Malvern Physiotherapy Clinic, 299 Wattletree Road, Malvern East, for $40 a pair. We stock the standard Archies arch, and we’ve just added two new colours, teal and royal blue, which are both in stock now. Pop in and try a pair on next time you visit, no appointment needed.

Updated October 2026

What are Archies thongs?

Archies are an Australian thong with arch support moulded into the footbed. They’re designed in Australia, and Archies describes them as physiotherapist designed. They look and wear like an everyday thong, so they’re easy to slip on for the beach, the pool, the backyard or a quick walk to the shops.

Each pair is made from a single piece of closed-cell foam, with no glued parts, plugs or fabric. That one-piece design means there are fewer places for the thong to break, and the footbed gradually adapts to the shape of your foot as you wear it. Archies are also vegan, with no animal-derived materials.

Why does the shape of a thong matter?

Your foot is a complex structure, with many small bones, joints, muscles and ligaments working together. Its arches help absorb load as your foot meets the ground, then stiffen so your calf can push you forward.

A completely flat thong gives the arch nothing to sit on, and many flat thongs have a loose strap, so your toes grip to keep them on. Archies take a different approach: a contoured footbed under the arch, and a snugger strap that holds the thong in place. Over a long summer of beach days and walks, many people simply find that more comfortable than a flat thong.

How should Archies fit?

Archies are designed to fit snugly, more like a shoe than a typical loose thong.

• Size: Archies use US shoe sizing. If you’re a half size, go up to the next full size
• Length: there should be very little space in front of your toes and behind your heel
• Width: the strap stretches, so they suit both narrow and wide feet
• Feel: the strap will feel firmer than a standard thong at first, and it relaxes with wear

The easiest way to get the size right is to try them on at reception. Our team can help you compare sizes.

What should I expect in the first few wears?

Most people find Archies comfortable straight away, but some find them firm at first. The footbed moulds to your feet over the first few wears, and the strap loosens a little over time.

If your feet aren’t used to support under the arch, build up gradually. Wear them for shorter periods at first, then for longer as they settle in.

Which colours are in stock?

• Style: standard arch
• Colours: a wide range of colours in stock, including our two newest, teal and royal blue
• Price: $40 a pair
• Where: reception at 299 Wattletree Road, Malvern East, during clinic hours

Stock moves quickly over summer, so call ahead on (03) 9078 8434 if you’re after a particular size or colour. They also make an easy Christmas gift.

How do I look after my Archies?

• Cleaning: scrub them with warm water and a brush or scourer. Add a little dishwashing liquid if they need it, then let them air dry
• Avoid the dishwasher: the heat can make them shrink
• Avoid the washing machine: the straps can catch and get damaged
• Steep slopes: take them off for very steep descents, as this can overstretch the toe post

Are Archies a replacement for orthotics or treatment?

No. Archies are a comfortable everyday thong, not a treatment. If you have foot, heel or ankle pain that hangs around, or pain that changes how you walk, it’s worth having it assessed. A physiotherapist can work out what’s driving it and whether footwear changes, exercises or orthotics would help.

Book a foot or ankle assessment: Book online or call (03) 9078 8434.

Frequently asked questions

Where can I buy Archies near Malvern East?

At reception at Malvern Physiotherapy Clinic, 299 Wattletree Road, Malvern East, during clinic hours. You don’t need an appointment.

How much are Archies at Malvern Physio?

$40 a pair.

What colours do you have?

We stock a range of colours, including our two newest, teal and royal blue.

Do you stock the high arch Archies?

No, we stock the standard arch only.

Do Archies run big or small?

They’re designed to fit snugly. They use US shoe sizing, and if you’re a half size, Archies recommends going up to the next full size. Trying a pair on at reception is the easiest way to check.

Are Archies good for wide feet?

The strap stretches, so they suit a range of foot widths. Try a pair on to see how they feel.

Why does the strap feel tight?

The strap is snugger than a standard thong so the thong stays in place without your toes gripping. It relaxes with wear.

Can I wear Archies in the water?

Yes. They’re made from foam, so they’re fine at the beach or the pool. Rinse off salt water and sand and let them air dry.

Are Archies vegan?

Yes. Archies are made from foam only, with no animal-derived materials.

Do I need a referral to buy Archies?

No. Anyone can buy them at reception. If you’d like advice about foot pain, book an assessment with one of our physiotherapists.

Published September 4, 2019