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Reef Cushion Phantom Review

This flip is completely focused on being as soft as possible underfoot, the result being a high level of comfort and low level of durability
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reef cushion phantom flip flop review
Credit: Reef
Price:  $50 List
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Manufacturer:   Reef
By Brian Martin ⋅ Review Editor  ⋅  Jul 20, 2020
59
OVERALL
SCORE


RANKED
#11 of 14
  • Comfort - 30% 8.0
  • Support - 20% 4.0
  • Traction - 20% 5.0
  • Versatility - 15% 5.0
  • Style - 15% 6.0

Our Verdict

The Reef Cushion Phantom has the softest footbed of any flip flop we have tested. These things are ultra squishy. Right out of the box, it was as if we had strapped two fluffy clouds onto our feet. Along with comfortable footbeds, the Cushion Phantom also has comfortable and snug straps. Unfortunately, to attain such squishy comfort from the footbed, a significant amount of durability and traction are sacrificed. These flip flops are best suited for mellow use as the sole isn't equipped to withstand sticks or sharp rocks. That said, we especially enjoyed slipping them on for a relaxing day by the pool or for something to use in the middle of the night while car camping.
REASONS TO BUY
Extremely comfortable
REASONS TO AVOID
Traction and durability is subpar

Compare to Similar Products

 
reef cushion phantom flip flop review
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Overall Score Sort Icon
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Star Rating
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Pros Extremely comfortableSticky rubber outsole, wide straps provide comfort and protection, good grip when wet or dryLightweight, recycled materials, comfortable fit wet or dryWide footbed, bargain basement price, many stylesDecent traction, comfortable cushion, cheap
Cons Traction and durability is subparHeavy, not very stylishPoor traction, less supportiveTraction isn't great, not as versatile, less durableRubber straps rub top of foot, come off easy
Bottom Line This flip is completely focused on being as soft as possible underfoot, the result being a high level of comfort and low level of durabilityThese are our top choice if you need a more casual hiking shoe that will hold up to technical terrain and long backcountry treksThis flip offers a sleek and classic design and recycled EVA footbed that will provide lightweight comfort as you explore your worldIf you're on a tight budget but need a flip flop that will handle most casual situations, look no furtherA decent option for a cheap, lightweight flip flop with good cushioning
Rating Categories Reef Cushion Phantom Teva Pajaro Teva Reflip NeedBo NDB Crocs Crocband Flip
Comfort (30%)
8.0
8.0
9.0
7.0
6.0
Support (20%)
4.0
8.0
7.0
7.0
6.0
Traction (20%)
5.0
8.0
7.0
6.0
5.0
Versatility (15%)
5.0
8.0
7.0
6.0
5.0
Style (15%)
6.0
7.0
8.0
7.0
5.0
Specs Reef Cushion Phantom Teva Pajaro Teva Reflip NeedBo NDB Crocs Crocband Flip
Sole Material Rubber Rubber EVA Rubber EVA
Footbed Material Foam EVA EVA EVA EVA
Strap Material Canvas Suede REPREVE recycled polyester EVA TPU
Weight (per pair) 14 oz 19.2 oz 9.7 oz 11 oz 11.7 oz
Available Sizes 8 - 14 7 - 14 7-14 6 - 17 6 - 12
Animal Products Not Specified Yes No No No

Our Analysis and Test Results

The Cushion Phantom is highly focused on comfort. The squishy footbed is its most notable feature, and it is very comfortable. Imagine sinking your foot into a giant tub of room temperature Country Crock butter, and you'll have an idea of how soft the footbed really is.

Performance Comparison


reef cushion phantom flip flop review - reef has an insanely large offering when it comes to flip flops, and...
Reef has an insanely large offering when it comes to flip flops, and typically they are pretty excellent. The Cushion Phantom is one of the most comfortable out-of-the-box pairs we tested.
Credit: Brian Martin

Comfort


As long as you stick to mellow terrain, poolsides, beaches, and your home, the Cushion Phantom is ultra-comfortable. Reef states that the footbed is made from the softest material they make. We have absolutely no doubt that this is true. To be any softer, Reef would have to come to your house and cast your foot in a bowl of jello and call it "Jello Moon Boots."

Not only is the footbed on this flip extremely soft and compliant, but the arch support is also quite adequate — about a medium-height — and the straps and thong are cozy and well made. The fact that absolutely no break-in period is needed for such a high level of comfort makes this an excellent choice for those looking to scoop up a pair of flops before catching a flight for a beach vacation.

reef cushion phantom flip flop review - there's nothing quite as good as enjoying the outdoors and letting...
There's nothing quite as good as enjoying the outdoors and letting your climbing shoe bunioned feet breathe!
Credit: Brian Martin

Support


When we think about support we think about rugged trails and pushing footwear beyond what it was made to handle. Pushing the Phantom beyond its capabilities isn't difficult because it was made for ultra-plush squishy comfort. These have about the same support and stability as a pack of peeps would have if you taped the package onto the bottom of your foot. Obviously this is an exaggeration, but the point is, the Cushion Phantom is ultra-soft. We would be wary of taking these off the beaten path for fear of thorns poking through the sole or the potential for rolling on off-camber terrain. No these aren't very supportive or stable, but they more than make up for it with a super squishy and comfortable footbed.

reef cushion phantom flip flop review - like the name implies, the cushion phantom flip flop is definitely...
Like the name implies, the Cushion Phantom flip flop is definitely comfortable. As you can see from the photo it's not the most stable or supportive of flip flops, though...
Credit: brian martin

Traction


The ultra-soft footbed of the Cushion Phantom combined with a relatively low-density sole doesn't offer the grip or stiffness necessary for good traction. This flip flop is so compliant it lets your foot slip right over rocks and roots. When it came to poolside traction, it performed ok but struggled on wet smooth surfaces like tile. Bottom line, to get such a soft footbed, the Phantom really sacrifices stiffness and traction.

reef cushion phantom flip flop review - the cushion phantom has about the same level of grip as a square of...
The Cushion Phantom has about the same level of grip as a square of yellow American cheese. That being said, they are super squishy and comfortable, just don't expect them to perform well on rugged terrain.
Credit: Brian Martin

Versatility


These don't excel in this category. Durability and traction are lacking, so these aren't practical for more rugged outings. This shouldn't deter you from trying these ultra-comfortable flips though — they are great looking and ideal for hanging out and relaxing.

reef cushion phantom flip flop review - the phantom is excellent for a bit of foot relief before shuttle...
The Phantom is excellent for a bit of foot relief before shuttle runs up Mt. Lemmon.
Credit: Brian Martin

Style


The Cushion Phantom has simple, clean lines, and almost every color scheme available is a blend of earth tones. You can get away with wearing these flip flops pretty much anywhere flip flops are acceptable. They don't look overly "outdoorsy," nor do they look like they are intended for dressing up. The Phantom blends into the surroundings pleasantly and doesn't draw much attention. While other flip flops would inevitably draw the question, "Oh cool, what kind of flip flops are those?" this one didn't.

reef cushion phantom flip flop review - the clean lines and good color schemes look good in almost any...
The clean lines and good color schemes look good in almost any setting.
Credit: Brian Martin

Value


When shelling out our hard-earned dollars for flip flops, we expect a lot. Where the Cushion Phantom excels is in providing out-of-the-box comfort. If you're heading out the door on a beach vacation tomorrow and need a pair of flip flops you know will be ultra-comfortable while you hang around the cabana, this is a pretty good choice. If you're expecting a bit more performance and versatility from your flip flops, the price isn't justified through performance.

Conclusion


Despite not being a great value, we really do like the Reef Cushion Phantom. The soft and squishy footbed is one of a kind. If we were judging all flip flops on their out-of-the-box comfort for hanging around the pool, it would be hard to compete with these fluffy foot clouds. Ultimately, as outdoor folk, we really demand a high level of durability from our footwear, and the Phantom just can't quite keep up.

Brian Martin
 

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