Flip-flops decorated with miniature heads of US Presidential candidates Barack Obama and John McCain have given summer fashion a political twist.

The quirky footwear is sold by 'HotFlops', based in Los Angeles. They are the brainchild of Linda Spann who, along with company CEO Sean Jackson, thought the American electorate would get a kick out of the colourful summer shoes.

Some have pondered if the shoes had a hidden message: putting the faces of candidates often accused of flip-flopping on issues, on shoes of the same name. Spann insists, however, that the meaning behind the shoes is nothing more than old-fashioned American patriotism.

Pairs of the flip-flops were even sent to each nominees headquarters and received, according to Spann, favourable responses.

However, Obama and McCain have yet to be spotted wearing the polemic sandals.

(Reuters.com August 25, 2008)