Slipper season: do's & don’ts
As the days grow warmer, what we wear becomes lighter. Out with thick socks, high boots, wool sweaters, and heavy winter coats. It’s time for shorts, breezy t-shirts, fluttering dresses, and stylish slippers. We often get asked in the practice whether it’s bad to walk in slippers or not. Depending on the type of slipper and how often you wear them, it doesn’t have to be bad at all. But, before you roam around in your trusty flip-flops, there are a few things you should know about the do’s and don’ts of walking in slippers.
Do: Straps high on the instep or around the ankle.
When buying your next pair of slipers, pay attention to where the strap of the slipper sits on your foot. Take flip-flops, for example: the strap sits only over (and between) your toes. This allows your foot to move in all directions, resulting in less stability and more clawing. Slippers with a strap higher on the instep or around your ankle eliminate the need to claw, thus reducing tension in the toes and feet.
Don’t: Toe-clenching.
Most slippers are not made for long distances; the soles are often flimsy, and the fit is too loose. Due to the loose fit, you unconsciously clench your toes, trying to ‘grip’ the sole with your toes. This leads to tension in the toes and/or foot and causes extra fatigue after walking.
Do: Walk barefoot more often.
If you don’t have any injuries, it’s advisable to walk barefoot more often. Especially if you have to choose between bad slipper soles or no shoes at all, a podiatrist would prefer you to walk barefoot. It’s good training for your intrinsic foot muscles and prevents pressure on the foot. However, be sure to gradually build up walking barefoot to avoid overloading. A podiatrist can help you with setting up an exercise schedule.
Don’t: Thin soles.
Thin, flexible soles are also not recommended. The sole provides no support and therefore creates more pressure under the forefoot. This is mainly noticeable during the transition period from closed shoes to slippers. Closed shoes often have a thicker sole that provides support, and the sudden transition can lead to discomfort.
Do: Train your feet!
Strong foot muscles help prevent injuries. Every month we share exercises in our mini-series on foot training. You can find the entire series on our YouTube channel. In relation to wearing slippers, we recommend episodes 5, 6, 7, 10, and 11. If you’re curious which exercises are valuable specifically for your feet, make an appointment for advice.
Wawae
Are you already using custom-made insoles in your shoes? Or would you like more comfort when wearing slippers? All without sacrificing style? In response to these questions, we have started the custom slipper brand Wawae. Wawae flip-flops are tailored to your feet and made especially for you. In addition to comfort, Wawae slippers also ensure the proper support for your feet. Combined with a stylish, modern design. Curious about the possibilities? Then come to our screening day on Monday, May 13th. We’ll have all the samples and models available to see and feel. Once you’ve made a choice, you can have your feet measured on the spot, free of charge. Just in time to walk into summer with custom-made slippers.
About the screening day
On Monday, May 13th, we are organizing a screening day at our location at Fysiomed in Amsterdam (IJsbaanpad 6). Through various stations, you’ll meet the team and can have various screenings done free of charge. The different stations are:
– Podiatry screening – short gait analysis and foot check
– Wawae station – have personalized slippers fitted for the summer
– Run3D quick scan (€85) – Unique Run3D offer. A 3D gait analysis of half an hour where you’ll receive your test report immediately.
– Shoe test – follow-up podiatry screening, are you wearing the right footwear?
– Foot training class with Mark – The ab workout for your feet!