The Impact of Hot Weather on Foot Health and the Best Shoes to Wear

We’ve teamed up with a RootFoot orthopedic specialist to highlight the impact of insoles on your health and everyday life. Explore orthopedic insoles, their importance, and how our overall health can benefit from them.

As the seasons change and temperatures soar, the effects of heat on our bodies are unavoidable, as was noted by doctor Gani from Molodost  clinic. While protecting our upper bodies from the sun and staying hydrated is crucial, our feet face their own challenges during the summer months. Understanding these challenges and choosing the right footwear can help keep your feet healthy and comfortable.

The Challenges of Hot Weather for Feet

1. Sweating and Odor: High temperatures can cause excessive sweating, leading to increased moisture in your shoes. This creates a perfect environment for bacteria and fungi, resulting in conditions like athlete’s foot and fungal nail infections, as well as unpleasant odors.
2. Blisters and Chafing: Sweaty feet are more prone to friction against the inside of shoes, often leading to blisters and chafing. These painful conditions can make walking uncomfortable and can take time to heal.
3. Swelling: Hot weather causes blood vessels to expand, leading to swelling in the feet. This can make your shoes feel tighter and more restrictive, causing discomfort and even pain.
4. Dehydration: While dehydration affects the entire body, the feet are no exception. Dehydrated skin on the feet can become dry, cracked, and prone to infections.
5. Sunburn: Feet, especially the tops and soles, are often overlooked when applying sunscreen. Exposing them to direct sunlight can result in painful sunburn, increasing the risk of skin cancer over time.

Choosing the Best Shoes for Hot Weather

It is essential to choose the right footwear. Here are some characteristics to look for:

1. Breathability: Shoes made from breathable materials such as mesh or lightweight fabrics allow for better air circulation, keeping feet cooler and reducing sweat accumulation.
2. Proper Ventilation: Look for shoes with ventilation features, such as perforations or cutouts, which enhance airflow around your feet.
3. Moisture-Wicking: Shoes with moisture-wicking linings help draw sweat away from your skin, reducing the risk of blisters and bacterial growth.
4. Lightweight Construction: Lightweight shoes reduce the strain on your feet and improve comfort during prolonged periods of wear.
5. Support and Cushioning: Despite the need for breathability and lightness, ensure your shoes still provide adequate support and cushioning to protect your feet from impact and reduce fatigue.
6. Adjustable Fit: Swelling is a common during hot months. Shoes with adjustable features like laces, straps, or buckles can accommodate changes in foot size throughout the day.

Recommended Shoe Types

1. Sandals: Look for sandals with good arch support and adjustable straps. Brands like Birkenstock and Teva offer options that combine comfort, support, and breathability.
2. Athletic Shoes: Opt for running or walking shoes made with mesh uppers. Brands such as Nike, Adidas, and Asics have models designed specifically for hot weather with enhanced ventilation and moisture-wicking properties.
3. Slip-On Shoes: Lightweight slip-ons made from breathable fabrics, like those from Toms or Skechers, are ideal for casual wear in the heat.
4. Water Shoes: For beach or poolside activities, water shoes that offer both protection and ventilation are a great choice. Look for brands like Speedo and Merrell for durable, quick-drying options.
5. Espadrilles: These lightweight, breathable shoes are perfect for summer and offer a more stylish alternative while still being functional in hot weather.

Additional Tips for Foot Care in Hot Weather

• Hydrate: Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated and reduce swelling.
• Use Antiperspirant: Applying antiperspirant to your feet can help control excessive sweating.
• Foot Powder: Use foot powder to keep your feet dry and reduce the risk of blisters and odor.
• Sunscreen: Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to the tops of your feet when wearing open-toed shoes or sandals.
• Orthopedic Insoles: Consider RootFoot custom orthopedic insoles. Insoles will support your arch and distribute the load evenly, helping to mitigate the impact of heat and prolonged activity on your feet.

By understanding the impact of hot weather on your feet and selecting the right footwear, you can enjoy the summer months while keeping your feet healthy and comfortable. Choose wisely, and take proactive steps to care for your feet during the hottest days of the year.

ABOUT ROOTFOOT

Root foot specializes in manufacturing of individually customized insoles that correct foot dysfunction. During the appointment, the patient undergoes a special algorithm examination and screening on the RootFoot plantoscope. The specialist considers not only the patients’ results, but also their complaints and lifestyle. The specialist selects a model of the insole preforms and further adjusts it precisely to the shape of the patient’s foot. After processing, the shaped preforms cools down within 1 minute and turns into a custom insole. The insole will self-adjust further within the first month of wearing. The entire process takes no more than 20 minutes. As a result, you get a satisfied client and additional income.