Summer Sandal Guide: Choosing the Best for Your Feet

May 20, 2024

As the temperatures rise and the sun shines brighter, it’s time to ditch the closed-toe shoes and slide into something more comfortable and breathable. Yes, it’s sandal season! But with so many options available, how do you choose the best sandals for your summer adventures? We’ve got you covered.

In this guide, we’ll explore the essential features to look for in summer sandals and introduce you to some top picks that seamlessly blend style with comfort.

Cork footbed

Summer Sandal Guide- Choosing the Best for Your Feet

One key feature to consider when selecting summer sandals is the footbed material. Cork footbeds are famous for their ability to mould to the shape of your foot over time, providing personalized support and cushioning.

Additionally, cork is lightweight and absorbs shock, making it an excellent option for all-day wear. Whether strolling along the boardwalk or exploring a new city, sandals with cork footbeds ensure your feet stay comfortable and supported.

Arch support

Arch support is essential, especially if you plan on wearing your sandals for extended periods. It distributes weight across your feet, reducing strain and preventing discomfort. A lack of arch and forefoot support can lead to foot problems like plantar fasciitis or metatarsalgia.

Look for sandals with arch support or removable insoles. You can customize the level of support to your liking. Your feet will thank you after a long day of sightseeing or outdoor activities.

Backstraps for support

While slip-on sandals are convenient, they may provide a different level of support and stability than those with backstraps.

Backstraps help secure the sandals to your feet, preventing them from slipping and sliding with each step. Added stability is particularly beneficial if you plan to engage in more active pursuits or tend to pronate or supinate. Backstraps come in various styles, from adjustable buckles to elasticized bands, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your feet.

Our top picks

Now that we’ve covered the essential features to look for in summer sandals let’s introduce you to some top picks that effortlessly combine style with comfort.

NAOT Cornet and NAOT Castelo

Best for cork footbeds

With their contoured cork footbeds and adjustable backstraps, NAOT sandals offer exceptional comfort and support. The NAOT Cornet and NAOT Castelo styles feature chic designs that transition seamlessly from day to night.

Mephisto Hester and Mephisto Hetty

Best for cork footbeds

Mephisto sandals are renowned for their superior craftsmanship and comfort technology. The Mephisto Hester and Mephisto Hetty models boast cushioned footbeds with arch support and durable backstraps for added stability.

Aetrex Jess

Best for arch support

The Aetrex Jess sandals feature a built-in Lynco orthotic footbed for maximum support and alignment. The adjustable backstrap ensures a secure fit, making them ideal for all-day wear.

NAOT Enid and NAOT Amadora

Best for backstrap support

NAOT offers a range of stylish sandals with cork footbeds and backstrap designs. The NAOT Enid and NAOT Amadora are built with quality and comfort in mind. The three variations three are perfect for summer adventures.

Mephisto Norine

Best for backstrap support

The Mephisto Norrine sandals combine elegance with functionality. Featuring Soft-Air technology and adjustable straps, they provide unparalleled comfort and support for any occasion.

Shop for summer's top sandals at Feet First Clinic

When choosing the best sandals for summer, prioritizing comfort doesn’t mean sacrificing style. For added stability, you can enjoy all-day comfort without compromising fashion by selecting sandals with cork footbeds, arch support, and backstraps.

Whether you prefer NAOT’s timeless designs, Mephisto’s innovative technology, or Aetrex’s versatility, a pair of sandals is waiting for you at Feet First Clinic. So, slip into comfort and step out in style this summer!

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June 6, 2022

6 Summer Foot Problems and How to Treat Them

When summer hits the city, many people don't have a care in the world! It's a time to shed the stress from the long winter and be carefree outside. That said, it's important to check on your feet as often as you can, as there are a few summer foot problems that can cast a dark cloud on your sunny days. Below, we'll discuss the following 6 summer foot problems and how you can treat them: Swollen Feet Sweaty Feet Blisters Warts Cracked Skin Infections Swollen Feet Here's a confusing scenario: it's time to rock your favourite summer sneakers and sandals, but they don't fit? While perplexing, there could be a simple cause. The summer temperatures in Toronto can be pretty sweltering. As a result, your blood vessels dilate when your body attempts to cool itself. This causes a chain reaction that leads to more swelling than you normally experience. While your body attempts to accommodate and move blood back towards your heart, fluids also accumulate, moving downward and trickling into the body's tissues. This is known as heat edema. If your swollen feet are due to the blistering heat, there are several things you can do to manage and prevent swelling in the future! Learn How to Manage Swollen Feet Sweaty Feet Having sweaty feet in the summertime is a given, but it's important to do your best to control it. Not only is it annoying on its own, but sweat and dampness are major contributors to other summer foot problems. These include blisters, fungal infections and persistently itchy skin. Did you know that a wide array of products exist specifically for sweaty feet? From several types of deodorants to moisture-wicking socks, your solution is out there. How to Tackle Sweaty Feet Blisters Blisters in the summertime are no stranger to most of us. Sweat accumulation can clog the pores in your feet, making them more damp and vulnerable to blisters. Additionally, many people excitedly ditch their socks in the summer. While that's to be expected with sandals, to avoid blisters, you should still wear socks with sneakers, trainers and runners -- even when it's hot. Thin, unsupportive flip-flops and walking for long hours in the beautiful weather are also a recipe for blister formation. Supportive sandals are a much better option and come with the breathability and simplicity you're looking for. As we've mentioned, high-quality footwear is a major way to prevent these painful nuisances. There are also other services and products that can help you walk without blister pain. Treatment and Prevention For Blisters Warts Plantar warts are another common summer foot problem. Summer activities like swimming and hanging out at the beach often involves going barefoot. However, walking barefoot in public places puts our feet at risk of contracting the human papilomavirus (HPV) that causes warts. The highly contagious HPV thrives in our favourite summers spots. Swimming pools (especially the pool deck), public bathrooms at the beach, showers and locker rooms are just a handful of the riskiest areas. The best way to prevent yourself from getting warts is to wear sandals or water shoes in public places where people often go barefoot. This will keep your feet from coming into contact with the virus. If you do get plantar warts and don't tend to them, complications like bleeding, severe pain, infection, and difficulties walking can ruin your summer. So be sure to take care of the problem right away! How to Treat and Prevent Plantar Warts Cracked Skin Dry skin isn't just a winter problem! Your feet can become cracked and dry when it's hot outside too. Whereas winter dries our feet out with hot water and blasting heat, summer dries out our feet because of how often we expose them. Thong sandals and flip flops without much coverage leave your feet more susceptible to drying out from walking on the sandy beach and hot pavement. Furthermore, you're more likely to become dehydrated in the summer and forget to hydrate when you're out and about. If you don't drink enough water, the skin can lose moisture and start to dry out. While there's not much you can do about the heat and elements, there are many ways you can keep your feet as smooth as possible. What to Do About Dry Skin and Cracked Heels Infections Fungal Infections The most popular summer spaces are a breeding ground for fungal infections like fungal toenails and athlete's foot. Fungi like dermatophytes thrive in moist, warm environments and are super easy to contract, targeting our skin and toenails. They can also spread between person-to-person with direct skin contact. Like HPV and plantar warts, these infections are more common in the summer as Torontonians frequent public pools, changing rooms, bathrooms, showers, etc. Fungal infections can become chronic if you don't pay serious attention to them. Athlete's foot and toenail fungus, in particular, are notorious for coming back time and time again. It's best to treat these nagging infections and do your best to prevent them in the future! How to Avoid Athlete's Foot Toenail Fungus Services Skin Infections Skin infections are another common summer foot problem. Our feet are more exposed during the summer from wearing sandals or walking barefoot. That increases the likelihood of cuts and scrapes. And since we don't cover our feet up in hot weather, open wounds remain exposed, which can lead to skin infections. Not only can an infected wound be irritating, but it can also lead to severe complications if you have diabetes. Accidents happen, so there's not too much we can do to prevent cuts and scrapes (save for not walking barefoot on broken glass). So, if you do happen to cut your foot, put a bandage over it until the wound closes up. And if you have diabetes, you should avoid open-toe shoes all together. How to Keep Your Feet Safe From Infection This Summer

June 27, 2024

Best Shoes for Construction Workers

Construction workers face challenging demands on the job site, including long hours, potential safety hazards, and variable weather conditions. There are few jobs where footwear is more important than on a construction site. Proper footwear is critical for comfort, safety, and overall health. This blog explores how to find the best shoes for construction workers. We dive into the balance between durability, safety features, and foot health, which are vital for your job. Durability Construction sites are full of heavy equipment and sharp objects and tools. Hazards range from sharp objects to heavy machinery. The best shoes or boots or boots for construction workers should be durable, made from leather or synthetic blends, and be able to withstand abrasions and falling objects. Keep your toes and feet safe with toe caps or sturdy outsoles - ideally both. Refined safety features Safety is a top priority on the job site. When choosing footwear, opt for models that meet or exceed industry safety standards set forth by the Canadian Centre for Occupational Safety and Health. Features like steel or composite toe caps provide essential protection against impact and compression injuries, while puncture-resistant midsoles shield your feet from sharp objects on the ground. Additionally, slip-resistant outsoles help prevent accidents on wet or slippery surfaces, reducing the risk of slips and falls. Refer to the CCOSH's guide for symbols, or markings, on footwear to determine which is appropriate for the job. Comfort Long hours spent on your feet can be grueling. It's not uncommon for construction workers to be on their feet for 10+ hours per day. Shop for shoes with adequate support through the arch and heel, and invest in removable insoles or orthotic inserts for even greater support. If you're a construction worker in Toronto, our licensed chiropodists can do a biomechanical assessment to determine the best insoles for your foot condition. Grip and footing The type of flooring used in the workplace influences comfort, especially on feet. Unforgiving surfaces like concrete are the least comfortable to work on—your feet and legs absorb all the weight compared to a softer surface. Further, slippery floors (whether smooth or wet) are hazardous for slips and falls. If not careful, you can be exposed to injuries like sprained ankles or broken foot bones. Fit Durability and safety features are effective only when your shoes fit the contours and mould of your foot. When trying construction footwear, test out the fit with the same socks and attire you'd be wearing on the job site. If you decide to purchase online, we recommend using the manufacturer's sizing guide for directions, or finding a local retailer to try the shoes on in-store.

June 24, 2024

Yellow Bottoms of the Feet: What it Means

Oh no, yellow feet! This seemingly alarming skin pigmentation is not usually cause for concern and is far more common than you think. Yellow feet commonly present as yellow bottoms of the feet and are usually not an immediate emergency. That said, they should be looked at during a foot assessment as there may be underlying medical causes or dermatological conditions at play. Let’s review the top culprits for yellow skin on the bottom of your feet. Calluses and Corns If the yellow skin on your feet feels hard to the touch and only occurs in certain spots (the whole foot isn’t yellow), you probably just have a lot of thick calluses! Imagine your feet are like well-trodden paths; the more you walk on them without protective footwear, the thicker and tougher they become, forming “callused armour” which often has a yellow hue. One of the most well-known podiatric concerns, calluses can be treated if they become a problem for hygienic reasons and also to prevent them from becoming more painful, infected or ruining your skin’s integrity and strength. Corns can also cause thick, yellow skin. Calluses and corns can be easily removed by a chiropodist using sterilized, medical-grade equipment. Read more about how our chiropodists treat calluses. Hyperkeratosis A dermatological condition called hyperkeratosis causes excessive hard and yellow calluses that can cover the majority of the bottom of your foot. When combined like this they can be a lot worse than solitary calluses and are more likely to crack, bleed, and hurt. Carotenemia You are what you eat! And in this case, you may be eating too many carotene-rich foods (like carrots, sweet potatoes, pumpkins — anything orange!) if the entire bottom of your foot has a mild, yellow hue. The good news? This is harmless. While noticing this effect on the bottom of the feet can be disconcerting, it may also occur on your face, which might have a positive effect on your confidence. Studies show these mild, facial skin changes can contribute to the overall appearance of health and vitality in humans. Pretty cool! Jaundice Jaundice is a serious occurrence that points to a poorly functioning liver, gallbladder or pancreas. Your doctor will help you determine the root cause. A tell-tale sign that you’re experiencing jaundice is if the yellow colour is quite strong, and if the whites of your eyes are also yellow (sclera). If you don’t have any other symptoms outside of mildly yellow feet, it’s unlikely you have jaundice, but it’s better to be safe than sorry! Fungal Infections Athlete’s foot causes flaky and itchy skin clusters around your toes and the ball of the foot. They look red or pink when irritated, but sometimes turn whitish yellow. Don’t try to treat this at home - you might damage your skin and nail health. Seek guidance from your local Toronto foot clinic instead! They can point you towards the right ointments, creams and other treatments. Learn more about treatment and prevention. Anemia This medical condition affects your red blood cells and impairs oxygen flow throughout your body. The entire foot or entire bottom of the foot will have a bright, yet mild, yellow tint. If your feet are cold to the touch in addition to being yellow, you might have anemia.

June 20, 2024

Toenail Anatomy: Understanding the Structure Beneath Your Toes

At first glance, our toenails look like a single nail, and that's about it. However, beneath the surface is a more complex structure that makes up the nail and the bed below it. This is our toenail anatomy. Toenails and fingernails are made of Keratin. Keratin is a type of protein that gives the nail strength and protection. (There are many types of Keratin. It also comprises hair and your epidermis.) Toenails differ from fingernails in a few ways, namely their thickness and growth rate, as the external forces on your toenails are greater than those on your hands. Today, we explore toenail anatomy and how each component affects foot health. Layers of the toenail Nail plate The nail plate is the easiest part of the toenail anatomy to recognize. It's the nail itself. The colour and texture of the nail plate can vary based on factors like health, genetics, and lifestyle habits. Nail bed Next, we go a bit deeper. The nail bed is beneath the nail plate. Just like sheets and blankets are the nail plate, imagine the nail bed is the mattress or bed frame below. The nail bed is a layer of skin that nourishes the nail as it contains blood vessels and nerves. It is also the growth engine behind the nail plate. If you damage the nail bed, you'll notice nail plate abnormalities or reduced growth rates. Sometimes, a damaged nail bed will cause you to lose a toenail or experience a discoloured toenail. A subungual hematoma occurs within the nail bed and can cause a black toenail. Lunula The lunula, or "half-moon," is the pale, crescent-shaped area visible at the base of the nail. It represents the edge of the nail matrix, where new nail cells are generated. Eventually, nail growth from the lunula extends out to the outer edges of the nail, at which point you'd trim them. Nail matrix The nail matrix is the tissue beneath the cuticle at the base of the nail. It produces new nail cells, pushing older cells forward and resulting in nail growth. Damage to the nail matrix can affect the quality and growth rate of the toenail. Each nail matrix produces 196 layers of cells that combine to make your toenails.

June 10, 2024

Why Scrapes and Cuts Become Diabetic Ulcers: The Process

Not fully understanding of diabetes complications and the importance of preventative diabetic foot care can be detrimental. Diabetic ulcers (sometimes called "diabetic foot") often occur after the onset of diabetic neuropathy, which severely restricts sensation in the legs. Around 40-50% of diabetes patients develop neuropathy; people with type 1 diabetes may develop it years after their diagnosis, while those with type 2 can sometimes already have neuropathy in the pre-diabetes stage. Today, we’ll explore how minor cuts and scrapes, combined with neuropathy, can lead to ulcers and progressively severe issues. But with solid diabetes awareness and preventative measures, serious complications can be easily avoided! How Cuts and Scrapes Turn Into Diabetic Ulcers Here are the five stages between a tiny wound and a full blown diabetic ulcer: Stage 1: Initial Injury A minor injury such as a cut or scrape occurs on the skin — anything from a small burn to stepping on a piece of glass. Foot conditions that open the skin’s barrier can also cause tiny wounds, like blisters, cracked heels, calluses and ingrown toenails. For individuals without diabetes, these usually heal without complications. Stage 2: Diabetic Neuropathy Impairs Healing Neuropathy halts the wound healing process. First, high blood sugar levels harm blood vessels and restrict the oxygen-rich blood flow our injuries need for repair. Neuropathy also causes a loss of sensation, meaning you may not even be aware of the cut or scrape. Stage 3: Infection The wound may become red, swollen, and warm, indicating infection. Pus or an unusual discharge might be present. Stage 4: Chronic Wound The cut or scrape evolves into a chronic wound, characterized by persistent inflammation and failure to heal after several weeks. Stage 5: Diabetic Ulcer An ulcer forms as an open red or pink sore that looks “punched out.” It may penetrate deeper layers of skin, extending to muscle or bone in severe cases. Tissue death (necrosis) can also occur, leading to blackened areas around the ulcer. Ulcers can lead to extensive tissue death (gangrene) and bone infections when ignored. What You Can Do to Prevent Diabetic Ulcers Ulcers sound scary, but the good news is that being vigilant about your foot health can help keep your feet ulcer-free. Examine your feet at home every day, keep them clean, and wear protective orthopedic slippers while inside to protect your skin. Lastly, you should regularly visit your chiropodist for inspections and diabetic foot care if you have diabetes; ask them how frequently you should be coming in!

June 6, 2024

Toenail Thickening: Why it Happens as We Age

Our feet and toes change in various ways as we age. One of these changes is toenail thickening. For some of us, toenail thickening can be more than just a minor inconvenience. It can make it difficult to cut and maintain our toenails, and can even cause pain and discomfort. In this article, we'll explain the causes of thickened toenails, and some possible treatments. Why Do Toenails Thicken with Age? Nails are made from a protein called keratin, which is produced at the nail plate at the base of the nail. Nail growth happens when nail cells multiply within the base of the nail and are pushed forward. However, as we age, the growth rate slows down, so the nail cells just pile up on top of each other, which causes them to get increasingly thicker. Age-related toenail thickening is often a result of several factors: Reduced blood circulation The most common cause of age-related toenail thickening is decreased blood circulation to our feet, which often occurs as we age. This diminished circulation means fewer nutrients and oxygen reach the toenails, causing them to thicken over time. Natural wear and tear Years of use can damage our toenails. Factors such as ill-fitting shoes, repetitive stress from activities like running or walking, and even minor trauma can contribute to thickening. Essentially, when our toenails experience trauma, they thicken to protect themselves. Fungal infections Older individuals are more prone to fungal infections of the toenails, which can cause thickening, discoloration, and brittleness. These infections often thrive in warm, moist environments like sweaty shoes or communal areas. Underlying health conditions Medical conditions like psoriasis, diabetes, and peripheral arterial disease can also influence toenail health. These conditions affect circulation, which in turn slows toenail growth and causes toenails to thicken. Tips for toenail care as you age As you age, proactive steps can be taken to maintain healthy toenails and minimize thickening. By following these tips, you can feel more in control of your foot health and well-being. Regular trimming Toenail thickening can make trimming and maintaining your toenails extremely difficult. Fortunately, a licensed chiropodist is trained to specifically deal with this. A licensed chiropodist can ensure your toenails are trimmed properly to prevent ingrown toenails, promote healthy toenail growth and reduce thickening. A licensed chiropodist can also use special tools over the toenail to thin it out, which will make the toenail easier to cut and maintain. Best of all, this is all done in a sterilized environment, so you don't need to worry about fungal infections (did you know 52% of people get fungal infections after visiting nail salons?) If you decide to trim your toenails at home, make sure you invest in quality toenail clippers and avoid cutting them too short. Proper foot hygiene Wash your feet daily with soap and water, ensuring they dry thoroughly, especially between the toes. Also, wear flip flops in public spaces to avoid contracting fungal infections. Comfortable footwear Choose shoes that fit well and provide adequate support. Avoid narrow or tight shoes that can put pressure the toenails and contribute to thickening. Moisturize regularly Apply moisturizer to your feet to keep the skin and nails hydrated. This can prevent cracking and thickening of the toenails, especially in dry climates. Foot protection Wear protective footwear in risky environments like communal areas or outdoors. This can help prevent injury and reduce the risk of fungal infections. Manage underlying conditions If you have underlying health issues like diabetes, it's important to remember that they can be effectively managed. By working closely with your healthcare provider, you can improve foot circulation and reduce the risk of complications like toenail thickening.

May 30, 2024

The Benefits of Medical Pedicures: A Summer Must-Do

As summer approaches, our feet emerge from the confines of socks and boots, ready to step into sandals and flip-flops. However, after months of neglect and hiding, our feet may not be in the best condition to be on display. This is where medical pedicures come in—a treatment that goes beyond mere aesthetics. Let's delve into the benefits of medical pedicures and why they should be on everyone's summer to-do list. Professional attention to foot health Unlike traditional pedicures, medical pedicures are performed by trained professionals called chiropodists. They prioritize foot health, ensuring your feet are healthy and feel good. Chiropodists are equipped to address various foot conditions such as calluses, corns, ingrown toenails, and fungal infections. They can also notice and diagnose other things that may be cause for concern, like poor circulation, warts, flat feet, and other foot conditions that may be affecting you. Most importantly, chiropodists can provide professional tips and advice on foot care. Preventative foot and nail care Regular medical pedicures can help prevent many standard foot problems before they even start. Addressing issues like calluses and ingrown toenails early on can avoid more severe complications. In addition, toenails grow faster in warm weather, so a medical pedicure in the summer is timely. Customized treatment Medical pedicures are tailored to your specific foot needs. Whether you have dry, cracked heels, thickened toenails, or sensitive skin, the treatment can be adjusted to address your concerns effectively. Chiropodists will assess your feet and recommend the appropriate action, ensuring you receive personalized care at every step. Hygiene and safety One of the primary benefits of medical pedicures is the emphasis on hygiene and safety. Sterilized instruments, disposable blades and discs, and stringent cleanliness protocols are standard practice in foot clinics. All cleaning protocols are regulated by Health Canada and the College of Chiropodists of Ontario. This reduces the risk of infection and ensures a safe, worry-free experience, especially those with compromised immune systems or diabetes. Stress relief It's worth remembering the relaxing aspect of a medical pedicure. Beyond the therapeutic benefits for your feet, the experience can be incredibly soothing for your mind and body. Taking time out of your busy schedule to pamper yourself can lower stress levels, improve mood, and enhance overall well-being.

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Summer Sandal Guide: Choosing the Best for Your Feet

Cork footbed

Arch support

Backstraps for support

Our top picks

NAOT Cornet and NAOT Castelo

Mephisto Hester and Mephisto Hetty

Aetrex Jess

NAOT Enid and NAOT Amadora

Mephisto Norine

Shop for summer's top sandals at Feet First Clinic

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Related Posts

6 Summer Foot Problems and How to Treat Them

Best Shoes for Construction Workers

Yellow Bottoms of the Feet: What it Means

Toenail Anatomy: Understanding the Structure Beneath Your Toes

Why Scrapes and Cuts Become Diabetic Ulcers: The Process

Toenail Thickening: Why it Happens as We Age

The Benefits of Medical Pedicures: A Summer Must-Do

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