Summer is fast approaching, and that means soon it will be time to break out the sandals and other open-toe shoes!

But before you do, make sure you're taking care of your feet. Hammertoes, bunions, and other foot issues can be especially troublesome in the summertime, so here are a few tips for choosing shoes that will help keep them healthy and pain free.

Listen to your feet

The best summertime shoes for foot health will be slightly different for every individual because everyone has different feet. It’s important to consult with your doctor when choosing shoes for your specific needs.

However, there are certain things everyone can do to make sure their feet stay healthy and cool.

The first is to go to a quality shoe store with clerks who will take the time to measure your feet. It may take a bit take longer, but it will be well worth it to walk around in properly sized shoes.

Be sure to look for quality materials that will let your feet breathe. Synthetic materials don’t allow for foot breathability and may lead to increased foot sweating, especially in the summertime. Damp feet not only may lead to smelly feet but also may lead to foot fungus.¹

Before you walk out of the store with your new shoes, be sure to walk around inside the store to ensure they fit properly. Simply trying them on without walking around in them won’t give you the same experience.

Foot doctors tell us that it's okay to wear standard, non-supportive flip-flops for a few hours if you've already spent most of the day wearing good, supportive shoes.² While wearing flip-flops to the barbecue for a couple of hours may be okay, it would be better to purchase a pair of arch-supportive sandals since they take the pressure off the big toe and transfer it to the arch. However, it’s important to remember that sandals and flip-flops with no arch support are not ideal options of footwear to maintain foot health.

Manufacturers like Vionic® and Spenco® actively market supportive summer footwear for people with foot issues³. These may be healthy for your feet because they may minimize pressure on the big toe.

The best options

Generally speaking, the best summer shoes for foot health are those that provide the most support for your arch, so less pressure is exerted on the big toe.⁴ Sneakers with built-in arch supports are ideal, but if you prefer to wear something more open, you can opt for specially made sandals that deliver extra arch support. Consult with your physician to find the best shoe for you and your needs so you can enjoy the summer in comfort and style.

References

1 https://www.prevention.com/health/a32969811/how-to-stop-sweaty-feet/

2. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/how-switching-up-your-summer-shoes-helps-your-feet/

3. https://blog.ohiohealth.com/have-a-soleful-summer-balancing-seasonal-shoe-styles-and-foot-health/

4. https://www.upperlinehealthindiana.com/the-importance-of-arch-support