Are summer sandals killing your feet?

Summer Footwear: Are Your Sandals Causing Damage?

The Kitten Heel Revival

Ninoda.com – During the hottest months, flip-flops have long served as a go-to remedy for perspiring, uncomfortable feet. Fashion authority Angela Baidoo, who also works as a trend forecaster, notes that the current fashionable approach involves pairing them with a kitten heel. “It’s not a high heel and it’s really kind of easy to just slip in and slip out of,” she explains.

Regardless of heel height, these casual shoes have accumulated a negative reputation regarding foot health. Baidoo acknowledges the concern: “In terms of arch support and joint support, it’s not the best style, but people are investing a bit more, getting their flip-flops customised, because it’s something that is just so easy to wear.”

Understanding the Foot Strain

Dr. Helen Branthwaite, a podiatrist serving as chief clinical adviser at the Royal College of Podiatry, clarifies that labeling flip-flops as harmful is “not accurate.” The real issue emerges when individuals transition directly from structured footwear to frequent flip-flop use. This shift places additional strain on the feet, increasing injury susceptibility.

“The foot does start to change shape and tends to splay a little bit over time,” Branthwaite observes. “A good analogy is if you were to wear a corset all the time and then took the corset off, everything would sort of all hang out, so to speak.”

Stylish and Supportive Alternatives

For those seeking comfort without sacrificing style, Baidoo recommends exploring options beyond traditional foam flip-flops. FitFlop represents a sturdier, contoured choice that differs significantly from flat, thin designs cut from large foam sheets. Meanwhile, Crocs have overtaken sliders as Gen Z’s preferred footwear, despite being considered “anti-fashion shoes.” Their orthopaedic design makes them “really comfy,” similar to footbed sandals like Birkenstocks.

The wooden clog is experiencing a resurgence, favored by medical professionals and chefs who wear them throughout long shifts. Baidoo highlights Scholl slider mules as the pioneering orthopaedic shoe, recalling her own pink suede pair. Wedges offer another excellent option, particularly for plus-size individuals. “When I speak to some of my friends and some of my clients who work in the plus-size category, the wedge actually provides a form of comfortable footwear. And it provides a nice kind of silhouette for the ankle. You’ve got the support all the way through the shoe.”

Timeless Styles and Modern Trends

Fisherman-style sandals, reminiscent of 1970s history teachers, remain a viable choice—especially when paired with socks. “Men can wear it as an alternative to a loafer. It’s not as casual as a flip-flop, which might not be suitable for certain environments. It’s a really cool kind of style to adopt for women too,” Baidoo notes.

The minimalist barefoot shoe movement continues growing. According to Branthwaite, “It’s all about easing into them.” Rather than purchasing a pair and immediately undertaking a five-mile hike, gradual adaptation proves essential.

Essential Foot Care Tips

Dr. Branthwaite offers several recommendations for maintaining healthy feet:

Examine the sole material carefully, as this affects both foot movement and walking patterns. If your flip-flops bend easily in half, consider whether your feet can handle the additional load typically supported by regular shoes. Monitor your foot condition regularly, since open footwear accelerates skin dryness. You may not detect changes until your heel hardens or toenails appear fragile. Apply emollient daily—a moisturising cream with urea helps hydrate the skin. Finally, remember that foot size evolves over time; beginning as a size 6 doesn’t guarantee you’ll stay that size forever.