What to know before choosing summer footwear

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Summer brings sandals and slippers, but picking the wrong pair could lead to fatigue or even foot problems, doctors say. When choosing seasonal shoes, experts recommend paying close attention to heel height, sole cushioning and toe room.

Open-back sandals and slippers, which often feature straps or bands only across the top of the foot, shift the body’s weight forward while walking. Without proper support, the foot muscles and tendons are put under strain, increasing the risk of injury such as ankle sprains. Most summer sandals also lack sufficient cushioning, which means the foot absorbs repeated impact, potentially damaging the plantar fascia over time and leading to plantar fasciitis.

Thin-soled flats can also be problematic. These stiff shoes may contribute to Morton’s neuroma, a condition in which the nerves leading to the toes become compressed, causing sharp pain or tingling between the toes. “Because the pain usually goes away after taking off the shoes, it’s easy to ignore,” said Kim Yoo-geun, a physician at Himchan Hospital in Bupyeong. “If you feel pain near your toes, switch to a wider toe box and softer soles.”

Another common condition linked to tight shoes is hallux valgus, or bunions. The big toe gradually bends toward the second toe, causing the joint to protrude, making walking uncomfortable. This occurs more frequently in women, often due to long-term use of narrow shoes. Early symptoms include swelling and redness near the big toe, but if left untreated, it can lead to persistent pain and even permanent foot misalignment.

Reducing pressure is key to protecting your feet. Shoes made from soft, impact-absorbing materials can minimize stress during walking. Avoid overly tight shoes or narrow shoes. Doctors also recommend that heels should not exceed 5 centimeters, as higher heels increase pressure on the front of the foot.

Because people often have one foot larger than the other, it’s important to measure both feet and choose shoes based on the larger size. Kim added that strengthening the muscles that control toe movement is another effective way to maintain foot health.

Heels can also suffer during summer. The heel area lacks oil glands and loses moisture easily. Frequent exposure to air conditioning and open-back shoes can worsen dryness and lead to cracked heels. Wearing socks helps retain moisture, but if that’s uncomfortable in hot weather, regularly applying moisturizer is recommended.

This article from the Hankook Ilbo, the sister publication of The Korea Times, is translated by a generative AI system and edited by The Korea Times.