17 Oct Are Plastic Shoes Bad for Your Feet?
About Plastic Shoes and Your Feet
You may remember wearing plastic sandals as a kid. Fondly known as “jellies,” these floppy sandals were once a feature of beaches and boardwalks in the summer. In recent years, however, plastic shoes have become a fashion fad. They are now spotted walking on runways and sporting designer labels. These shoes look cute, but they can be hard on your feet.
They Lead to Fungal Infections
A plastic shoe provides the perfect environment for the growth of fungus. It encases the foot and doesn’t allow any air circulation. Heat and moisture get trapped inside the shoe. With no escape, they create an environment that makes fungus flourish.
You Can Slip and Fall
Plastic shoes have no real support in the soles. They are made from a rigid material that doesn’t bend or flex. This means you’re more likely to trip while wearing them. They also expose you to injuries from rocks and sharp objects on the ground.
What’s That Burning Sensation?
People who are allergic to plastic should stay away from these shoes. They can cause contact dermatitis in your feet, which is a condition doctors call “hot foot.” It refers to a painful rash that feels like your foot is on fire.
They Can Hurt
For those who are brave enough to wear plastic shoes for more than a few minutes, there’s worse. These shoes are extremely uncomfortable. Fashion writers and style bloggers have described the sweaty feet, intense pain, and blisters they got from wearing plastic shoes on hot days. Add heels—as many of the new plastic styles do—and you’re just asking for tortured feet.
They Get Tight
One of the reasons these shoes are uncomfortable is that plastic doesn’t expand. Your feet swell during the day, which is why most foot experts recommend shoe shopping in the late afternoon. Unlike shoes made from leather, canvas, or other flexible materials, plastic doesn’t stretch to fit your swelling feet.
Can You Make Them Safer to Wear?
Some plastic shoes are comfortable and less damaging to your feet. These include Crocs and Teva shoes, which have wide toe boxes, soles that grip, and ventilated designs.
If you want to try plastic shoes, follow these tips to minimize the damage.
• Choose plastic shoes that have ventilation and thick soles.
• Wear them with socks that wick away moisture.
• Wear them briefly and only on occasion.
Plastic shoes, high heels, and pointed toes are all high-fashion styles that can wreck your feet. If wearing them has created foot problems, make an appointment with your podiatrist.
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