Summer Foot Care: Your Guide to Sandal Season Survival in Florida
Key Takeaways:- Flip-flops aren't meant for all-day wear—alternate with supportive sandals
- Your feet can sunburn too—don't forget SPF on the tops of your feet
- Hot sand and pavement can cause serious burns; protect your soles
- Increased moisture and bare feet mean higher fungal infection risk
Summer in Florida: Paradise with a Catch
Let's be honest: Central Florida summers are intense. Triple-digit heat indexes, afternoon thunderstorms, and the constant temptation to ditch shoes entirely. While we understand the appeal of barefoot beach walks and breezy flip-flops, your feet need protection even—especially—in summer.
At Central Florida Foot & Ankle Institute, summer brings a predictable uptick in certain foot problems: burns from hot surfaces, infections from shared pools and beaches, injuries from flimsy footwear, and the consequences of months of inadequate foot support.
Here's how to enjoy Florida's summer while keeping your feet healthy.
The Flip-Flop Problem
We're not here to ban your flip-flops. But we need to have an honest conversation about them.
Why Flip-Flops Cause Problems
Lack of Support: Most flip-flops are flat slabs of rubber with zero arch support. Extended wear stresses your plantar fascia, contributing to and . Altered Gait: Your toes have to grip to keep flip-flops on, changing your natural walking pattern. This leads to tired feet, shin splints, and even hip problems. No Protection: Exposed toes and heels are vulnerable to stubbing, cuts, and dropped objects. Trip Hazard: Loose flip-flops catch on surfaces, causing falls.Smart Flip-Flop Strategies
If you love your flip-flops (and we get it), follow these guidelines:
- Limit wear time: Quick errands and beach trips only, not all-day wear
- Choose quality: Look for flip-flops with arch support and thicker soles
- Replace often: When they show wear or the strap loosens, it's time for new ones
- Alternate: Mix in supportive sandals throughout the week
- Skip them for walking: Never flip-flop through the theme parks
Better Warm-Weather Alternatives
Sport sandals with contoured footbeds, adjustable straps, and heel support offer summer comfort with actual foot support. Brands like Vionic, Birkenstock, Chaco, and OOFOS offer options that podiatrists actually recommend.Sunburn: Your Feet Need SPF Too
The tops of your feet are often forgotten when applying sunscreen—and they're fully exposed in sandals. Foot sunburns are painful and surprisingly common.
Prevention
- Apply SPF 30+ sunscreen to the tops of your feet
- Reapply every 2 hours, and after swimming
- Don't forget between your toes and around your ankles
- Wear water shoes or sandals when possible for added protection
If You Do Get Burned
- Cool water (not ice) on the burn
- Aloe vera gel
- Loose, breathable footwear
- Stay hydrated
- See us if blistering occurs or the burn is severe
Hot Surface Burns: A Florida Reality
Florida summer means scorching pavement, scalding pool decks, and sand hot enough to cook on. Thermal burns to the feet are a genuine concern, especially for children and anyone with diabetic neuropathy who may not feel the heat.
Surface Temperatures in Direct Sun
- Asphalt: Can exceed 150°F
- Concrete: Often 130°F+
- Sand: Can reach 120°F+
- Metal surfaces: Even hotter
These temperatures can cause second-degree burns in seconds.
Prevention
- Always wear shoes on pavement and around pools
- Test sand with your hand before walking barefoot
- Stay in shaded areas when barefoot
- Wear water shoes at the beach
- Carry shoes to slip on when surfaces get hot
Treating Surface Burns
Minor burns: Cool water, aloe vera, loose covering, over-the-counter pain relief.
See a doctor for burns that blister, cover a large area, or show signs of infection.
Fungal Infections: Summer's Hidden Risk
Warm, moist conditions are fungal paradise. Pool decks, gym showers, and sweaty shoes create perfect breeding grounds for athlete's foot and .
Athlete's Foot Prevention
Athlete's foot thrives in summer. Protect yourself:- Wear flip-flops in public showers, locker rooms, and pool areas (this is where they're actually useful!)
- Dry thoroughly between your toes after swimming or showering
- Change socks if they get damp from sweat
- Use antifungal powder in shoes and on feet during heavy activity days
- Don't share towels or footwear
- Let shoes dry completely before wearing again—rotate pairs
If Infection Strikes
Athlete's foot typically responds to over-the-counter antifungal creams used consistently for 2-4 weeks. See us if symptoms persist, spread, or affect your toenails.
Summer Activity Injuries
Beach Hazards
- Cuts from shells and debris: Wear water shoes when walking beaches, especially unfamiliar ones
- Jellyfish stings on feet: Vinegar for box jellies, hot water for other species
- Sand in shoes: Creates friction leading to blisters—shake them out regularly
Pool and Water Park Safety
- Slippery surfaces: Walk, don't run
- Waterlogged skin: More susceptible to blisters and cuts
- Chemical exposure: Rinse feet after swimming to prevent irritation
Sports and Exercise
Summer doesn't stop Florida's athletes. Choose appropriate footwear for your activity, and remember:
- Hydration affects foot health (dehydration can cause cramping and swelling)
- Heat increases swelling—lace shoes slightly looser in summer
- Early morning or evening exercise reduces heat stress on feet
Summer Foot Care Routine
Daily Practices
- Inspect your feet daily (especially important for diabetics)
- Wash and dry thoroughly including between toes
- Moisturize heels and soles (but not between toes)
- Rotate footwear to allow shoes to dry completely
Weekly Practices
- File gently to prevent cracking
- Examine shoes for wear
When to See Us
Schedule an appointment if you notice:
- Persistent
- Signs of fungal infection
- Burns that blister or don't heal
- Heel or arch pain lasting more than a week
- Any wound that isn't healing properly (especially if diabetic)
Enjoying Summer Safely
Florida summers are meant to be enjoyed—pool parties, beach days, theme parks, and outdoor adventures. With smart footwear choices and basic precautions, you can have fun without sacrificing your foot health.
If summer has left your feet worse for wear, schedule an appointment at any of our CFFAI locations. We'll get you back to enjoying the sunshine.
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About Central Florida Foot & Ankle Institute
At CFFAI, Dr. Carli Hoover and Dr. Sean Griffin keep Central Florida's feet healthy year-round. With locations in Orlando, Kissimmee, Lake Mary, and Oviedo, summer foot care is always close to home.
Don't let foot problems ruin your summer. Book your appointment today →