{
  "id": 153039,
  "title": "Are summer sandals killing your feet?",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/04/are-summer-sandals-killing-your-feet-153039",
  "topic": "health",
  "section": "Health & Medicine",
  "published": "2026-08-04T23:53:44.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "BBC Health",
    "slug": "bbc-health",
    "url": "https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cnvney840l9o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "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.",
  "summary": "They may keep your feet cool but some styles could be doing more harm than good.",
  "key_points": [
    "Summer sandals may damage feet due to lack of support.",
    "Podiatrist warns abrupt switch from structured shoes causes foot strain.",
    "Gradual introduction of minimalist barefoot shoes recommended."
  ],
  "editors_take": "Shifting from structured footwear to flip-flops can permanently alter foot shape, highlighting the need for supportive alternatives and gradual transitions to minimize damage.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "BBC News",
        "title": "Are summer sandals killing your feet?",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/04/are-summer-sandals-killing-your-feet",
        "published": "2026-08-04T23:53:44.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}