If you’ve been following my blog for a while, you know that I’ve had a few foot issues the past 2 years. I have been working towards taking better care of my feet and during the summer this is even more important. Not only do I ramp up my training in the summer and put extra pressure on my feet, I also like to wear sandals that show off my feet.
I am sharing a few tips that help me keep my feet looking & feeling better all summer long.
1. Ditch the flip flops! Yes they are cute and easy to throw on but I’ve learned that wearing basic rubber flip flops are the worst for my feet. They have zero arch support and apparently cause numerous foot problems. I pretty much live in sneakers or Birkenstocks (which have a ton of support).
2. Stretch- I need to remember to stretch my feet before and after runs. It’s so easy for me to forget to do this but it really helps. My new favorite stretch toy is this Foot Log. It feels so good! I keep it under the table and roll on it while I type away on the computer. I often roll my foot on a frozen water bottle afterwards.
3. Moisturize- I use Aquaphor on my feet before bed. Applying a thick layer under my socks moisturizes my feet overnight and I wake up with much softer heels.
4. Pamper- I do enjoy a regular pedicure and it really helps to take care of the toe nails. In between, I often use this at home Foot Spa after long runs or bike rides. I put a little Epsom salt in and soak for about 15 minutes. Aaah!
5. Protect- Wear high quality socks while running and exercising. I preferred socks for working out are Balega’s. Super cushioned and have some added arch support. Bonus they have great colors.
I received a basket of these Kushyfoot products to try out recently. I love the toe less Yoga Socks! I am one of those people who slips on the yoga mat without socks and these have little grippers on the bottom. Plus I really don’t like to walk around barefoot at the yoga studio. They would also be great to wear to get a pedicure too.
I love heels but sadly they really just kill my feet. Sometimes you have to wear them for a party or a meeting. I was given a pair of these “flats on the go” that I can throw in my bag and switch with heels in seconds. I think they would be great for traveling too. I like to take my shoes off on a plane and socks don’t feel like enough protection. Lots of cute patterns too.
Here’s to happy summer feet!
(This post contains affiliate links)
What Foot Care Tips Do You Have For Me? Foot issues??
Linking up with Nicole
Clearly from my barefoot running escapade I do nothing to take care of my feet! No socks, cheap flip flops–certainly no time for a pedicure! Maybe I should show them a little love…I like the idea of massaging with a frozen water bottle!
Oh yes those feet need some love Michelle!! The frozen water bottle is heaven
All about the birkenstocks (or fake ones, in my case). You gotta have arch support!
They have been a life saver really!
Love the idea of putting Aquaphor on your feet before bed- that is brilliant!
ah thanks! It really does work 🙂
Great tips! I am terrible about the flip flops. I basically LIVE in them in the summer. I do have a nicer pair of rainbows that molded to my foot, so those are better than some!
Great tips, friend!
I know it’s a shame not to be able to wear flip flops but they are so not good for your feet!
I don’t have foot issues but then again I’ve never worn flip flops. I just don’t get them – they’re NOT comfy, people!
But I do need to moisturize my feet more – my feet get so dry in the summer and the skin on my toes start to tear, kind of like a hang nail only on the toe pads – it’s painful!
ouch! Try the aquaphor with the socks it really works.
I’m guilty as charged with flip flops still. I love some pumice action and a foot massaage with cooling food gel after a long run!
The pumice is good to have. I keep one in my shower too.
Awesome tips! I really need to get in the habit of stretching my feet before and after workouts….it’s one of those body parts that I skimp on stretching and if I don’t do it, I totally feel it after awhile and it hurts! Thanks for the link to that foot bar. Have a lovely weekend!
You and me both!
I have been longing for a foot spa. Thanks for reminding me. http://www.ketoforindia.com
They are great to have around!
I would have never thought to use Aquaphor before going to bed. I might have to try this out!
It really works!
Live for compression socks/sleeves after a long run. Definitely help my feet rehab and reduce swelling. Aside from stretching, I’ll usually hang out with my legs up against a wall (back on the floor) for 5-10 minutes after a long run to help circulation. And I’m all about that pedicure (with an extra 15 minute massage 🙂 ) Have a fabulous weekend!
all good tips too! The extra 15 min on the pedicure is so worth it!
Basically, if I’m not wearing running shoes, I’m in flipflops (or barefoot). I know better, having lived through several bouts of plantar fasciitis but, I guess I’m a slow learner. I do get a pedicure though!
You are right! Regular flip flops are horrible for your feet! I go from heels to running shoes to heels again so I love my feet and love to pamper them! Flats on the go- great idea! TGIF!!!
Yes pampering feet is a total necessity! The flats on the go are a great idea
omgoodness, the one thing that i get consistently and is a complete thorn in my side are FOOT CRAMPS. Man i get them at least once a week! I need to stretch and roll them out more for sure like you said. And Birkenstocks all the way! i wear mine all the time 🙂
Foot cramps are the worst! Try the ice frozen water bottle it really helps.
Other than plantar fasciitis, my feet are in decent shape. I could probably use some lotion on them, but I cannot sleep in socks, so…
I am also terrified of pedicures. So they get whatever pampering I can do myself.
the PF is the worst! It took me out for 3 months this past year and I am doing everything I can to keep it away.
Great tips! I always have trouble with my heels cracking. 🙁 I have to work hard to keep them looking and feeling good! I am definitely guilty of the cheap flip-flops though.
Try the aquaphor it really works on my heels.
I LOVE my Birkenstocks (and I love those purple ones!).
I very badly need to repaint my toenails – it helps to cover up the bruised toenails from running. Ew.
LOl sure does!
My feet get sore after long runs, so I have a pair of super cushy sandals to wear afterwards! Thanks for linking up!
Thanks for hosting!
Love the idea of flats to go. I was at our office in Calgary up on the 14th floor or something like that and we had a fire drill. One of my co-workers was in heels but had some flats in her purse which made that long trip down the stairwell much safer and more comfortable!
Oh I bet! Have a great weekend!
I love taking care of my feet because I am addicted to sandals. That is all I wear so I want to be sure my feet look nice. I wear polish all the time because it makes me feel feminine all summer long.
Me too! Need to keep those feet I. Rip top shape
I can’t wear any heels either! I love my Toms flats. I also need to remember to stretch my feet pre and post work out. Thanks for the reminders, esp. for the pampering of the footsies!
I used to love my Toms but not enough support
I’m such a fan of the Birkenstocks, too! They are just so very comfortable. I have a whole collection, too! Foot massages are just the best. This weekend I need to shop for some arch supportive insoles. My right foot hurts during a long run. I love pure Coconut oil as a moisturizer, better than any foot cream.
Have a great weekend!
Take care of that foot!
It’s so sad how bad flip flops and heels are for our feet!! I need to get myself a pair of Birk sandals like yours….so cute.
Yes indeed not good for our feet at all! The burks are super comfy
I have a pair of those fast flats and they are perfect in between my flights when I want to take my heels off.
They are great for that!
Foot issues? Me? LOL, you know I write about my feet all the time! Now my left foot PF is flaring up. It’s always something, right? I have those same Birkenstocks and I’m in love… now if they’d make my PF go away…
Seriously the PF is the worst thing ever!! Mine is flaring up a bit (2 weeks before my tri). I am back to sleeping with the sock on for a few days. WE need to invent the cure it
So psyched for my pedicure tomorrow! Those Flats To Go would be great for conferences. My feet are always dead at the end of the day.
ah I love a great mani/pedi 🙂 Enjoy
Great tips! My poor feet hate me year-round, but even moreso in the summer. I’m with you on no heels, but I take it a step further and go no flats as well! I try to avoid wearing flip flops if I’m out doing a lot of walking, but I will wear them if I’m just going somewhere quick.
I like your at-home pedicure ideas…I need to do that more often!!
yes take care of those feet! They will love you
I do roll on a frozen water bottle also. Wow do I need it. I also have used AquaPhor in the past and I have those socks. Great tips, however I am still loving my flip flops. I do wear Reef though and they are a bit thicker than normal flops.
These are great tips! I love the frozen water bottle tip… I do that to help with my PF.
Uh the PF is the worst!
Great reminders! I have a foot spa & I use Aquaphor on my feet too!
They definitely help!!
Isn’t the ice bottle the best life hack for your feet! I just bought this roller thing by Dr. Sholls that works wonderfully for rough spots on your feet.
I will try anything when my PF flares up! It’s the worst.
Birkenstocks are my favorite and I love the color that you have!
Great tips – I need to soak my feet at home more often 🙂
Thanks and soaking your feet is so relaxing isn’t it?!
Ditching the flip flops is one of the hardest things for me to do! I love my cheap plastic flip flops, especially because I don’t have to worry about them getting damaged or stolen at the pool or beach. However, my foot pain is getting worse and worse each year, so I’m going to have to bite the bullet and make some changes this next summer. I really appreciate this article, and will be using these tips for sure!
Foot pain is never fun! I hope you figure out your issues and feel better
Thank you! I hope so, too!
I agree that flip flops are not good for one’s feet, especially the feet of a trainer in the sport of running. As a previous runner myself, having been in track and cross country, I can attest to the importance of maintaining good feet health. I have found that the use of correct footwear is paramount in that regard, which is something I’m paying for not having done recently, as one of my toes is now swollen most likely from that as a cause.
I’m so bad at caring for my feet correctly! I love flip flops, and I don’t always pamper my feet like they deserve. I definitely agree that high-quality socks are worth the price, though. Not only do they not tear as easily, but they’re also much more comfortable when you’re exercising or just standing around. Thanks for the foot care tips!
Yes to good socks and happy feet