Types of Shoes to Wear for Sweaty Feet

If you suffer from excessively sweaty feet no matter what the temperature, the problem might be hyperhidrosis, and according to the Mayo Clinic, the issue can become so bad, sufferers will literally have perspiration dripping off their bodies. Wearing the correct type of shoes and treating your feet kindly, however, can help control your hyperhidrosis.

Slip off your shoes and allow your feet to breathe as much as possible. (Image: Hemera Technologies/AbleStock.com/Getty Images)

Symptoms and Causes of Sweaty Feet

There is a difference between sweating excessively under normal circumstances, such as during hot weather or because you're anxious, and suffering from hyperhidrosis, asserts the Mayo Clinic. For a person suffering from hyperhidrosis, the excessive perspiration often occurs suddenly, is much worse at night and actually disrupts their everyday life. Hyperhidrosis is caused by an overstimulation of the sweat glands in the feet, armpits and palms, and often becomes worse if a person is nervous or upset. This overstimulation occurs for a number of reasons, such as menopause, an issue with the thyroid gland, a heart attack or certain infectious illnesses.

Best Type of Shoes

Choose shoes constructed from porous, breathable, man-made fibers, such as canvas and leather. Avoid rubber shoes, as these trap in the heat and moisture, making your feet sweat even further. Podiatrist Dr. Michael Nirenberg recommends ditching the socks and shoes all together whenever possible and walking around bare foot. This allows your feet to breathe, which helps eliminate excessive sweat, and the odors it causes. Wearing open sandals is another option, whenever appropriate.

Rotating Shoes and Changing Socks

Aside from wearing shoes constructed from natural materials, or slipping on a pair of sandals, allow your sneakers or loafers to air out between uses. To cut down on odors, and because your sneakers or dress shoes won't necessarily dry overnight, the Mayo Clinic recommends placing your shoes in a rotation, which involves never wearing the same pair two days in a row. In addition, wear socks created from natural, breathable fibers, such as cotton, and steer clear of heavy socks or those created from nylon or other synthetic fibers. If your feet are sweating excessively, consider rinsing them off and changing your socks as many times as necessary throughout the day.

Caring For Your Feet

Among the medical treatments available to treat hyperhidrosis of the feet are botulinium injections and even the complete removal of sweat glands. However, many simple lifestyle and home remedies can also keep feet sweat and odor under control. For example, apply a foot powder or spray to your feet before slipping on your socks. Wash your feet every day with an antibacterial soap, and dry them thoroughly after emerging from the shower. The Mayo Clinic also recommends trying relaxation techniques, such as yoga or meditation, to control the stress and anxiety that can make hyperhidrosis even worse.

REFERENCES & RESOURCES American Podiatrist: If Your Feet Sweat in Shoes, Ditch Your Shoes Foot Vitals: Learn the Causes and Treatments for Sweaty Feet