As you transition into fall boots and shoes, it’s also important to adjust your foot care routine for the cooler weather. We’ve collected our top foot health tips for fall below to keep you happy and healthy this season.
Establish a Foot Care Routine
While it should be a year-round habit, it’s especially important in fall to have a daily foot care routine.
Wash and Dry Your Feet
Wash your feet with soap and water daily, making sure to fully dry them after—pay special attention to the crevices between the toes! Avoid putting damp feet into enclosed shoes, as the extra moisture can cause blisters, fungal infections like athlete’s feet, and other concerns, or may damage your footwear
Moisturize, and Moisturize Again.
We highly recommend moisturizing your feet daily this season. Your heels are especially at risk for cracking during fall due to dry air, which can lead to pain and bleeding in severe cases. Regularly applying a foot therapy cream like this one relaxes, softens, and reduces inflammation in your feet. Additionally, a pumice stone is also good for addressing rough areas.
Keep Your Toenails Short
An oft-forgot consideration of enclosed shoes is toenail length. Prevent ingrown toenails caused by toes bumping up against the front of your shoes by trimming them regularly.
Massage Your Feet
Finally, a good foot massage never hurts! Besides being soothing in the moment, it also helps improve circulation for long term benefits.
Use Moisture Wicking Socks
Thick socks are a great way to keep your feet warm while out and about in cool weather, but materials like wool may cause extra sweating that leads to odor or fungal infections. Prevent this by investing in a good pair of moisture-wicking socks, which keep your feet warm while pulling away excess moisture.
Find more moisture-wicking socks at Goodmiles Running Company.
Protect and Clean Your Fall Shoes
Investing in a high quality pair of boots or shoes isi key for the fall season, and keeping them in top shape is just as important!
Dry Shoes And Rotate Pairs
Allow your shoes to air out in between uses to prevent any fungi or bacterial growths. Either leave them in a cool, dry, open space until fully dry, or invest in breathable shoe bags for closet storage. Avoid ever putting your shoes in direct sunlight to dry, as this can cause shrinkage, and never store in bins or plastic bags, which prevent airflow.
This will happen naturally if you rotate amongst several pairs of shoes instead of wearing the same pair day over day. Consider this your excuse to go shopping!
Pre-Treat Shoes Against the Elements
With rainy and muddy days ahead, you can protect your shoes’ longevity by treating them with waterproofing spray. Reapply every few weeks to make sure they stay as resistant as possible.
Counteract Odor Right Away
If you notice your shoes starting to smell, be sure to treat them right away—it’s usually a sign of bacteria buildup in the shoe. We recommend this odor spray that kills bacteria and is fragrance-free for the freshest shoes possible.
Break In New Pairs Slowly
When you purchase a new pair of boots, be sure to take some time to break them in. Wear for short periods at first, and if you notice any rubbing against your feet, try temporarily wearing moleskin to prevent blisters and calluses.
Pay Special Attention to Sensitive Materials
For tips on cleaning leather and suede boots specifically, check out this blog on proper care of these materials.
Wear the Right Shoes for Each Activity
As you take part in your favorite fall activity, whether it’s hiking, apple or pumpkin picking, or attending football games, it’s important to choose shoes that fit the occasion. Keep an eye out for factors like warmth, support, traction, and water resistance.
Check out our blog about the Best Shoes for Fall!
Visit Stan’s for All Your Foot Health Needs
Stan’s is more than just a shoe store. We work hard to carry the shoes, shoe care, and foot care products that keep you looking and feeling your best for fall and every other season ahead. Our compassionate team of Certified Fit Specialists are ready to answer any questions you may have and help match you to your perfect fit.
Visit us in store at our three locations in Brookfield, Greenfield, or Glendale or shop online today at stansshoes.com.