It’s almost summer, and the sun has finally made an appearance. If you’re like me, you’re tired of feeling cooped up in your house and closed-toed shoes. So what do we do? We rush outside, throw on the nearest pair of shoes, and head out for the day. Even I’ve been guilty of this mindset.
But as your podiatrist, I need to have a quick heart-to-heart about what's on your feet when you're enjoying our precious Seattle sunshine. Today I will discuss when to avoid these 6 shoes to this summer to keep your feet feeling great!
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1. Flip Flops
1. Flip Flops I know these are often your go-to shoes for a quick trip outside and at the pool. While they’re fine for these situations, flip flops were never intended to be worn all day, for long walks, or for dancing. After all they are just a flimsy piece of foam.
Here's the problem: flip flops offer zero arch support, and your toes need to grip constantly just to keep them on. Considering a 3-mile walk around Green Lake? Don’t. Your feet will be working overtime with every step and will leave you with a pile of pain. If you’re young with good feet, you may recover quickly, but over time, you can develop many different foot problems from these shoes.
Think about heel pain, ball of foot pain, bunions, and ankle sprains. And because it’s almost like walking barefoot, you expose yourself to cuts and puncture wounds as well.
If you already have foot pain, you may want to avoid them altogether and opt for a sandal with more arch support.
2. Crocs
I know crocs are really comfortable, but like flip flops they aren’t meant for everyday wear. Here’s why!
- They’re too loose and provide minimal support. In fact, you can easily bend them in half.
- That "roomy fit" you feel means your foot slides around, altering your natural gait.
- And because they don’t secure your heel, you’ll be gripping with your toes. This can lead to a condition called Morton’s neuroma where you experience pain in between your 3rd and 4th toes.
- Because crocs have holes at the top and are easily punctured, never wear them when mowing the lawn or using heavy machinery.
If you plan to sweep your deck or garden for 10 minutes—sure they’re fine. But don’t wear them to Folklife or Bumbershoot when you’re going to walk around all day.
3. Backless Sandals
Backless sandals may look good, but don’t wear them for long periods of time or for long walks. While they may have more arch support than a flip flop, you’ll still use your toes to grip to keep them on. That can lead to ball of foot pain.
4. Fashion Sneakers
Next are fashion sneakers or what I call squooshy and cushy shoes.
These might look cool with your summer outfit, but they're all style, no substance. Unlike running shoes or other supportive athletic shoes, these tend to have thinner soles and can easily be bent in half or wrung out like a rag. They might be fine for a party or dinner, but not for walking your dog.
5. Flat Sandals or Ballet Flats
Many people think all they need to do for healthy feet is avoid high heels. While it’s important to keep your heel height to one inch or less, totally flat shoes come with their own set of problems.
Flat shoes can increase your risk for plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis, particularly for people with flat feet. Limit their use if you have a regular arch and avoid them if your feet are flat.
6. Stiff Wedges or Flatforms
While stiff wedges or flatforms give you height without the problems of a high heel, their inflexible soles prevent you from moving through your gait naturally. Your foot needs to flex and bend as you walk, particularly on our hilly streets. When it can't, you’ll likely get pain in the ball of your foot and are more prone to tripping and falling.
Alright, you might be wondering, so what can I wear this summer? While I’ve listed many problematic shoes there are still a lot of great sandal options. Here’s what to look for!
- Flip flops with arch support – check out those made by Vionic (still avoid wearing these to walk around Green lake)
- Sandals with straps – buy a stylish sandal with straps for all day wear. Women can try Taos or Naot for women. Men--Keens or Dockers.
- Athletic shoes – instead of a fashion shoe, choose a supportive athletic shoe like Hoka, New Balance, Brooks, or Nike.
To find these great shoes, check out Sole Perfection in Shoreline, Market Street Shoes in Ballard, or your local REI.
Remember, Seattle summers are precious – don't spend them nursing foot pain! Your feet carry you everywhere – treat them right, even when the sun comes out.
