Why You Should Switch Your Footwear From Time To Time

When it comes to footwear, many people choose comfort over fashion, often wearing the same pair regardless of the occasion. However, no matter how much we love a particular pair, experts recommend rotating footwear regularly—and for good reason.

While changing seasons, evolving fashion trends, or the need for better support and comfort are common reasons why people usually feel compelled to switch their footwear, one major reason should also be foot health. It is crucial to note that footwear isn’t just about aesthetics; rather, it plays an important role in our overall health and well-being.

Also Read: The Role Of Footwear In Knee Health: How To Choose The Right Shoes For Support

Why You Shouldn’t Wear The Same Shoes Everyday

In an interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Sachin Sethi, Principal Lead - Physiotherapy, Artemis Hospitals, highlights the potential risks of wearing the same footwear every day.

Dr Sethi explains that consistently wearing the same shoes can lead to foot deformities, such as bunions, hammertoes, and plantar fasciitis. Over time, shoes mould to the shape of the feet, and if they lack proper support, this can negatively impact foot health.

It is also important that you wear correctly fitted footwear so as to avoid foot problems. A study published in the Journal of Foot and Ankle Research found that between 63 and 72% of participants wearing ill-fitting shoes experienced foot pain and foot disorders such as lesser toe deformity, corns, and calluses.

Additionally, wearing the same shoes for prolonged periods increases the risk of injuries like sprains, strains, and stress fractures. The feet need variety to adapt to different surfaces and activities; without this variation, they become more prone to injury, explains Dr Sethi.

Another key concern is that wearing the same footwear daily doesn't allow it to properly air out, leading to unpleasant odours and a buildup of bacteria. This increases the risk of infections like athlete's feet.

Therefore, rotating shoes regularly not only promotes foot health but also keeps them clean and fresh.

Also Read: Not Just Etiquette, 3 Health Reasons To Take Your Shoes Off Outside

Benefits Of Switching Between Different Footwears

Rotating different types of shoes offers several benefits. These include:

• Reduced risk of injuries by providing variety in support and cushioning.
• Better foot hygiene, preventing the buildup of bacteria and odour
• Enhanced comfort, as wearing different shoes can help you find the most comfortable pair for different activities and situations.
• Improved posture and overall body alignment.

Dr Sethi warns against wearing certain types of shoes that can cause long-term foot issues if worn continuously.

For instance, high heels can put excessive pressure on the toes and balls of the feet, leading to pain and discomfort.

Flat shoes, on the other hand, can lack adequate support and contribute to foot problems like plantar fasciitis, he adds.

How Often Should You Switch Your Footwear?

“There's no hard and fast rule for how often you should change your footwear,” says Dr Sethi.

However, he recommends switching shoes every other day or at least once a week, as this will give your shoes time to dry out and prevent the buildup of bacteria.