Urgent.News

What's breaking now, across thousands of outlets.

Health & Medicine

Are summer sandals killing your feet?

They may keep your feet cool but some styles could be doing more harm than good.

Are summer sandals killing your feet?

Summer sandals may be causing damage to your feet, according to fashion experts and podiatrists. Angela Baidoo, a trend forecaster, suggests pairing flip-flops with kitten heels for a more stylish and easy-to-wear alternative. However, Baidoo acknowledges that flip-flops are not ideal due to a lack of support and potential for foot injury.

Podiatrist Dr Helen Branthwaite warns that abruptly switching from structured footwear to flip-flops can strain the foot, causing it to splay and change shape over time. She emphasizes the importance of foot shape and suggests wearing supportive flip-flops like FitFlops or orthopaedic shoes such as Birkenstocks, Crocs, and fisherman-style sandals, especially for men.

Branthwaite advises gradually introducing minimalist barefoot shoes and maintaining proper foot hygiene with moisturizing creams. Regular foot measurements are also recommended, as foot size can change over time.

Written by urgent.news from BBC Health's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.

This story

This is one outlet's version. Read the fullest account.

Read the original at bbc.co.uk →

More in Health & Medicine

More from Tuesday 4 August →