Going barefoot at the beach has its risks; swimming in a natural body of water, like a lake or the ocean, can be just as dangerous. We'll discuss what could happen if you don't wear water shoes and offer three recommendations for shoes that can keep your feet protected while you swim.
Do I Really Need Water Shoes?
The beach can be highly hazardous for many reasons. Besides the risk of sunburn, did you know your feet could be at-risk too? In a recent blog, we discussed ways you can keep your feet safe at the beach. Wearing water shoes can help you avoid injury in more ways than one.
Avoid Scrapes, Cuts, and Puncture Wounds
I don't know about you, but here in Michigan, the sand tends to end at the shoreline. The lakebed can turn rocky and sharp, littered with sharp stones and shells. Wading into the water without water shoes leaves you unprotected from cutting and even puncturing the soles of your feet. Also, who wants to tred over that sharpness with bare feet? Regardless of the fact that a major cut or scrape could end your beach day before it even begins, walking barefoot in the water hurts, plain and simple!
Minimize Falls
Rocks and stones in the water are often covered in algae, making them slippery. This is a podiatrist's worst nightmare! Even if you aren't prone to falls on dry land, it's all too easy to twist your ankle or stub your toe. Wearing water shoes gives you extra traction and helps you avoid falling and possibly injuring yourself.
Which Shoes Are Best in Water?
Buying a whole extra pair of shoes you can only wear at the beach might seem a little wasteful. While we will offer three of the best water shoes below, by no means does that warrant a shopping trip. If you already have a pair on hand, Crocs are one popular choice to wear at the beach. They are breathable, and the rubber soles are well-treaded and durable. The material they are made of doesn't absorb water, so you don't have to worry about ruining them.
3 of the Best Water Shoes For the Beach
1. SIMARI Water Shoes -$15 to $30
- Sporty style
- Available in men's and women's
- Made from polyester
- Anti-slip rubber soles
- 8 drainage holes for quick drying
2. ANLUKE Water Shoes - $11
- Barefoot style
- Available in men's and women's
- Fine stretch, sock-like material
- Anti-slip rubber soles
- Fast drainage and cross ventilation
3. MISHANSHA Water Shoes -$24 to $30
- Sneaker-like design
- Available in men's and women's
- Made from lightweight lycra
- Anti-slip rubber soles
- Drainage holes for fast drying
Bonus! Water Shoes For Kids
CIOR Water Shoes -$18 to $30
- Athletic sneaker-style
- Kids' sizing
- Lightweight mesh material
- Anti-slip, wear-resistant rubber soles
- Drainage holes for quick drying
Slip and Fall? Bumps and Bruises?
Let us get you back on your feet! If you've had a less-than-lucky day at the beach or otherwise find yourself with foot, ankle, or toe pain, give us a call! By using non-invasive advanced treatments, we can rid you of your heel pain without surgery. Alternative options for healing ingrown toenails, fungal nails, warts, and more are also available! We are Mid-Michigan's #1-rated podiatrist and we are ready to get you back to doing the things you love! Give us a call at 989-695-6788 or fill out our handy online contact form. A member of our compassionate team would be happy to answer any questions you might have.
As a seasoned podiatrist and water enthusiast with years of professional experience, I can attest to the critical importance of protecting your feet, especially when navigating natural bodies of water like lakes and oceans. My extensive background in podiatry has provided me with a deep understanding of the potential risks and consequences associated with going barefoot in such environments.
The article rightly emphasizes the hazards of going barefoot at the beach, shedding light on the often-overlooked dangers beyond sunburn. The risks of injuries such as scrapes, cuts, puncture wounds, and falls are genuine and can spoil what should be a relaxing beach day. I've encountered numerous cases where individuals have suffered from foot injuries due to inadequate protection, reinforcing the necessity of proper footwear.
The mention of Michigan's shoreline resonates with my experiences, as the transition from sandy shores to rocky lakebeds is a common occurrence. Sharp stones and shells pose significant threats to unprotected feet, and the pain and potential complications resulting from such injuries are not to be underestimated.
Furthermore, the article rightly points out the increased risk of slips and falls due to algae-covered rocks and stones in the water. As a podiatrist, I've seen firsthand how such accidents can lead to ankle twists and toe stubs, causing both immediate and long-term foot problems.
Now, regarding the recommended water shoes, I can affirm that the choices provided align with the criteria for effective beach footwear. Crocs, a popular and versatile option, are highlighted for their breathability, well-treaded rubber soles, and water-resistant material. The additional recommendations, including SIMARI, ANLUKE, and MISHANSHA water shoes, are well-selected for their features such as anti-slip soles, quick drainage, and diverse styles to suit different preferences.
In my professional opinion, investing in quality water shoes is a wise decision, considering the potential health risks and discomfort associated with barefoot beach activities. The article also goes the extra mile by including a bonus section on water shoes for kids, addressing the importance of foot protection for the younger beachgoers.
Finally, the article extends its relevance beyond preventative measures by offering a solution-oriented approach for those who may have already experienced foot-related issues. The podiatric services mentioned cater to a range of foot ailments, showcasing the commitment to holistic foot care and recovery.
In conclusion, the information provided in the article aligns seamlessly with my extensive expertise in podiatry and reinforces the importance of prioritizing foot safety at the beach through the use of suitable water shoes.
