The Best Footwear for Summer
It’s summer! Summer means different things to everyone. For some, it’s a chance to relax by the pool. For others, it’s a time to be active outdoors. No matter what your definition of summer is, you need to have the proper footwear. Let’s take a look at some common summer activities and the appropriate shoes for each occasion.
Pool
It may seem silly to think of shoes at the pool, but protecting your feet is always important. Even if it’s just a pair of flip-flops, make sure you wear shoes anytime you are on the pool deck to protect from fungus-laden puddles that can lead to athlete’s foot.
While you’re in the water you don’t need shoes, right? Not exactly. For activities like water aerobics or water running, you’ll want a pair of supportive water shoes (and I don’t mean the ones you buy at Walmart). You can find quality water shoes at a sporting goods store, swim store, triathlon store, or scuba shop.
Beach
No one wants to wear shoes at the beach, but you need to at least drive there and get from the parking lot to the sand, right? So, shoes are inevitable. Try a slip-on shoe (like FitKicks) or a lightweight running shoe with mesh. Your feet are protected on all sides from the hot sand as you set up your towel, and they’re easy to pull back on once you’re done washing your feet to head to the car. Flip-flops are not recommended since they provide no coverage and little traction on wet surfaces.
Walking/Running/Hiking
While these activities are all related, there are definitely specific shoes used for each. If you’re just going walking, pick a sturdy tennis shoe that is made for walking. If you’re going running, pick a padded shoe that is labeled good for runners. It seems simple, but with the bright colors luring you in, fashion can sometimes outweigh function during shoe shopping.
There are also specific shoes made for hiking and trail running. It’s best to find these at sporting goods stores or specialty stores. Trail-running shoes provide better traction and hiking boots provide more support over varied terrains. Get the right thing from the beginning or you may end up visiting your foot doctor later.
Sports
There are too many summer activities to list, but kids and adults alike love getting outdoors to play sports. And everyone needs proper footwear for each activity. Sports played on courts (basketball, tennis, etc.) need shoes that support the ankle during lateral (side-to-side) movements.
Sports played on fields (soccer, football, lacrosse, baseball, etc) require cleats. Cleats are designed to “grip” the ground, but there isn’t just one kind of cleat. Cleats for baseball and football have a toe cleat (under the tip of the shoe) that is used to push off for sudden acceleration. Soccer cleats can’t have this feature because of the potential contact with other players and resulting injury. Make sure you’re getting the right ones for your activity.
No matter what you like to do in the summertime, make sure you are remembering your feet and picking the best shoe for your activity. It makes a difference. If you need help with a shoe recommendation or a shoe fitting, visit the FAAWC. We are here to help keep you out and active this summer. Call today!
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