Who Wears Shoes in the Summer
As the temperatures rise and nature starts calling, many of us enjoy kicking off our shoes and feeling the sand, grass, and even the warm pavement under our feet. While not wearing shoes can feel freeing and natural, there are some important foot health considerations to keep in mind if you're spending more time outside this season.
At Coastal Podiatry Associates, we're here to break down the benefits, risks, and best practices of walking barefoot so you can protect your feet while enjoying the outdoors.
The Appeal of Walking Barefoot![foot health being barefoot outside]()
Walking barefoot is a great way to strengthen foot muscles, improve balance, and enhance sensory feedback. Some say it helps them feel more connected to the earth, often called "grounding."
Benefits of Going Barefoot:
- Improves posture and balance
- Strengthens the intrinsic muscles of the foot
- Encourages better toe alignment
- Increases sensory input awareness
Risks of Going Barefoot Outside
Although walking in grass or sand can be low-risk in certain environments, many outdoor surfaces pose hidden dangers:
- Cuts, scrapes, or puncture wounds from rocks, nails, glass, or debris
- Burns from hot pavement or sand, especially during midday sun
- Infections from bacteria or fungi
- Insect bites or stings
- plantar warts ot athlete's foot, picked up from communal areas like pools
Those with diabetes or neuropathy should be especially cautious going barefoot outside, even in familiar places like their back or front yard.
Tips for Going Barefoot Safely
- Inspect your feet daily for cuts, swelling, or signs of infection
- Strengthen your feet gradually with foot exercises before going barefoot for long periods.
- Avoid going barefoot on unknown surfaces or areas with debris.
- Wash and moisturize your feet after any barefoot activity.
