Sandal Buying Do’s and Don’ts

At Pasco-Hernando Foot & Ankle, we know our Nature Coast patients spend a lot of time in sandals. There are so many styles out there that it can be overwhelming to know which ones to choose to promote healthy feet. Below are some do’s and don’ts to help you find sandals that feel as good as they look and will protect your feet from developing painful podiatric conditions.

Don’t: order sandals online (unless it’s a brand and size you’ve previously purchased that you know fit). It’s best to shop at a reputable shoe store and try on the sandals you are considering. Get your feet professionally measured. Shoe size can change as you age.

Do: ask our podiatrist, Dr. Lawrence J. Kales, to recommend sandal styles that will be best for your unique feet. Hammertoes, plantar fasciitis, and other chronic foot conditions may require special features to accommodate them.

Do: look for the seal of approval from the American Podiatric Medical Associate (APMA). They put their seal on footwear that’s good for your feet.

Don’t: buy sandals that are too narrow. Heat and activity make feet swell. That’s why it’s best to shop for sandals and other shoes at the end of the day when your feet are their largest. Sandals that aren’t wide enough and force toes together can encourage ingrown toenails and toe deformities like bunions.

Do: choose styles with good arch support. Many footwear manufacturers today have sandal designs that include built-in arch support. It reduces the strain on the plantar fascia and can reduce back knee and heel pain.

Don’t: go too low or too high on the heel. A slight heel of about ¾ of an inch is ideal because it decreases strain on the Achilles tendon. Much higher than that, and you throw off the normal biomechanics of your foot. Platform and wedge styles provide the greatest stability. If you're leaning toward a kitten heel, at least make sure the sandal you choose has an ankle strap. It will increase stability and help prevent ankle sprains.

Do: Contact our Hudson office (727-868-2128 or 352-683-5799) if you are experiencing any foot pain or need additional advice on choosing the proper footwear for your feet.