Shoes to Avoid This Summer

One of the most popular summer shoes — flip-flops — also happens to be one of the worst for your feet. While they’re convenient and breathable, they often lack the support your feet need. Common problems with flip-flops include:

• Little to no arch support, which can worsen plantar fasciitis
• Increased risk of hammertoes, since your toes must grip to keep them on
• Poor shock absorption, leading to heel and joint pain
• No heel counter, allowing excessive pronation and ankle rolling

Other shoes to avoid include completely flat sandals with no cushioning, narrow pointed-toe shoes that compress the forefoot, and worn-out sneakers that have lost their support. If you want breathability and convenience, don’t worry — there are plenty of better summer footwear options below.

Wedges

A great alternative to flip-flops, wedges allow your Achilles tendon to assume a more relaxed position and provide better arch support. They’re stylish, versatile, and can help reduce strain on your feet during summer outings.

Block Heels

Skip the stilettos this summer. If you’re looking for height without the pain, block heels with ankle straps offer stability, support, and easier walking — making them far more foot-friendly than narrow heels that concentrate pressure on a single point.

Loafers & Oxfords

For a polished, closed-toe look, loafers and oxfords are excellent choices. They provide structure and support that open sandals can’t match. Just make sure they fit properly to avoid bunions, ingrown toenails, or skin irritation along the sides of the foot.

Sneakers

Lightweight, cushioned sneakers are always a smart choice. They provide all-day support and are great for walking, traveling, or running errands. For high arches, look for flexible sneakers with softer midsoles. For flat feet, prioritize motion-control sneakers with firm medial support.

Supportive Sandals

Not all sandals are bad — the key is finding ones with contoured footbeds, arch support, and adjustable straps. Look for a sandal with at least a half-inch of cushioning underfoot to protect against hard summer surfaces.

Athletic Walking Shoes

If you’re spending a lot of time on your feet this summer — at the beach, on vacation, or at outdoor events — a quality athletic walking shoe is your best bet. Look for a wide toe box, removable insoles (great for custom orthotics), and a firm heel counter.

Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis causes stabbing heel pain that is often worst in the morning or after long periods of standing. Summer footwear can make this condition significantly worse if you’re walking barefoot or in flat, unsupportive shoes. Look for shoes with firm arch support, a slight heel elevation, and cushioned midsoles. Avoid going barefoot on hard surfaces — even around the house. Learn more about plantar fasciitis treatment at Cherrywood Foot Care.

Bunions

Bunions are bony bumps that form at the base of the big toe and can become inflamed and painful in tight or narrow summer shoes. Choose footwear with a wide, rounded toe box that doesn’t compress the forefoot. Avoid pointed-toe shoes and any sandal strap that crosses directly over the bunion. Learn more about bunion treatment options.

Flat Feet

Flat feet cause the entire sole to contact the ground, leading to overpronation and strain on the ankles, knees, and lower back. For summer, look for motion-control sneakers or sandals with built-in arch support. Custom orthotics from our office can be transferred into most supportive summer shoes for added relief.

Heel Pain

General heel pain in summer is often caused by sudden increases in activity — more walking, hiking, or standing on hard surfaces. Shoes with adequate heel cushioning and shock absorption are essential. Avoid hard-soled sandals and flat canvas shoes. If your heel pain is persistent, it may be a sign of a stress fracture or Achilles tendon issue that warrants a visit to our office.

Hammertoes

Hammertoes occur when the middle joint of a toe bends downward, often worsened by ill-fitting shoes. Summer sandals and flip-flops that force the toes to grip can aggravate this condition significantly. Look for shoes with a deep toe box that allows the toes to lie flat and avoids pressure on the tops of the toes.

Ingrown Toenails

Hot weather and increased summer activity can make ingrown toenails more painful and prone to infection. Tight shoes, sandal straps that press on the nail edges, and going barefoot in public areas all increase your risk. Choose footwear that gives your toes room to spread and keep toenails trimmed straight across. Learn more about ingrown toenail care.