Test Your Summer Shoe Savvy
At NY Foot Health, we know lots of people look forward to trading their heavy winter shoes and socks for toe-wiggling, fresh-air freedom for feet when summer arrives. But not all summer footwear trends are healthy for your feet. Below are some common summer footwear myths—don’t fall for them!
Flip-flops are the perfect summer shoe. Many patients really want this to be true, but if you’re talking about the traditional rubber flats with a single strap between the toes, it’s not a good choice. Yes, these seasonal favorites are so easy to slip on and wear, but they put a strain on your toes. Without any surrounding structure. your foot is exposed to dirt and germs and can easily slip out from the sides and cause an ankle-twisting injury. One exception: flip-flops are summer stars at the town pool, beach restrooms and changing areas, and any public place where people go barefoot. In these scenarios flip-flops protect feet from coming in contact with fungi, bacteria and viruses that can cause athlete’s foot, toenail fungus and warts.
Walking barefoot is healthy for your feet. Generally, this is not the case, especially if you are walking outside. There are too many hazards hidden in grass and sand such as glass, nails, sharp rocks and other items that can cause a serious cut or puncture wound. Even at home, wearing shoes limits your risk of foot and toe injuries. This is particularly important if you have diabetes or another condition that causes neuropathy because you may not detect the injury immediately, and this give an infection time to take hold. Some experts will make a case for walking barefoot (indoors) as a way of regaining your natural gait and strengthening your feet, but this should be done in conjunction with the advice of the foot doctor or a fitness expert.
All sandals are created equal. Definitely not true! Look for styles that have good arch support. Completely flat shoes lead to heel pain. Adjustable straps allow you to fit a pair of sandals properly to your feet and avoid pressure on bunions and other vulnerable. Cushioned insoles can increase comfort. Even the maligned flip-flops above are now being re-made by some manufacturers with features that make them better for your feet.
The American Podiatric Medical Association offers a list of companies that receive their seal of approval for products that promote good foot health. It’s a good starting point for summer shoe shopping. If you have questions about the best shoes for your feet, ask your podiatrist for recommendations. Don’t have a podiatrist? Use our online directory to locate a foot doctor near you. For more footwear tips contact us and consider subscribing to our free e-newsletter.