Slippers are a symbol of summer. Chic, colorful, even with heels and trendy … but sometimes dangerous. Better those of rubber and leather or of cork? We asked for advice from Simone Ripanti of the Italian Society of Orthopedics and Traumatology to carefully choose between flip flops, clogs and wedge sandals. Knowing that the wrong shoe can ruin our holidays and also cause problems for our health
How to choose the right slipper for the summer: the decalogue for the purchase
In contact with the earth. Our foot is made to be barefoot and to walk on hard surfaces. For this reason, no footwear is better than bare earth. Walking barefoot relieves muscle tension.
No hurry. After ten months of closed and high-necked shoes, freeing oneself from constraints appears to be a healthy gesture. But be careful, the foot must gradually get used to putting on sandals, open shoes and slippers
Beach walking. On the beach, especially on the water’s edge, there is nothing better than walking barefoot. Beach walking helps stimulate circulation; moreover, the effect of the sea water creates a kind of massage that is beneficial for both feet and legs.
Flip flops yes or no. Flip-flops are among the most used footwear in the summer and during the holidays, especially by women. They should be worn for short periods: the movement that must be done to prevent them from escaping overloads the tendons, especially that of Achilles.
To be avoided Flat and rubber flip flops are not recommended: the too soft sole does not cushion the impact of the heel on the ground. Many flip flops are made with latex which can lead to allergies, better choose leather or cork ones with insoles.
Clogs pros and cons. Avoid wearing rubber clogs for long periods. Especially if the goal of the day is trekking or brisk walking. Better to choose materials that allow the foot to breathe and give a harder support.
The wedges. Women can opt for wedge shoes, but those without any heels are preferred. Reason? In order to distribute the weight of the body well. Wooden wedges are not recommended, because they are too rigid and can lead to excessive instability.
Orthopedic problems. For those who have orthopedic problems and wear an insole, they must do it even in summer by choosing ad hoc shoes where it can be inserted. For example, it is better to opt for a wide and adjustable sandal, with a rear containment area.
For children. Leave the kids barefoot as much as you can by limiting flip-flops to the shower. For long walks, choose a sneakers or a sandal that must have a rubber sole, a buckle for closure and a protected heel.
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