Is wearing open footwear good in an Indian climate?

Open footwear can help prevent excessive perspiration and reduce the risk of sweat-induced infections, but wearing them constantly may expose your feet to dirt, pollution, and harmful sun rays.

When you join the ‘open footwear club,’ it’s hard to go back to shoes. From Birkenstocks (which may look ugly but feel like a breeze on your feet) to other stylish flats that perfectly round off all your looks, open footwear is so easy to work with. Just slide your feet in, and you’re literally good to go! Unlike shoes, for which you first need to put on socks and then lace them up or squeeze your feet into them, which can sometimes feel like a chore.
Plus, open footwear gives your feet a much-needed breather, especially in warmer weather.

But is it really okay to always wear footwear that keeps your feet exposed? While it is a matter of personal preference, one can’t deny the pros and cons of wearing open footwear and closed shoes. Dr Deepali Bhardwaj, founder of Elska Skin Clinic, Noida, says it is fine to wear open footwear but also highlights a drawback.

“Yes (it is fine to wear open footwear), but then why do men's feet often need fewer pedicures? The reason is that wearing shoes and socks regularly helps protect their feet, keeping them softer at all ages. This is why it’s a good idea for working women to avoid wearing open footwear all the time,” says Dr Bhardwaj.

If you're someone whose feet look better and softer during winter, it's likely because you switch from open footwear to closed shoes during that season.

On the contrary, wearing open footwear when stepping out – either for office or a stroll – exposes your feet to dirt, pollution, and harmful sun rays, leading to dry and cracked skin. Though dermatologists say it can all be taken care of with a bit of care.

The climate impact

The climate also plays a major role here. During summer, especially in regions that experience extreme temperatures (like northern and western India), open footwear can help prevent excessive perspiration and reduce the risk of sweat-induced infections. Similarly, during the monsoon and humid times of the year, wearing open footwear provides better air circulation, keeps your feet cool, and prevents sweat accumulation.

“Due to greater exposure to air and sun, which can drain moisture from the skin, wearing open footwear can result in drier skin on the feet. However, by promoting improved air circulation, it can aid in preventing problems brought on by perspiration, such as fungal infections and stink,” says Dr Ruben Bhasin Passi, consultant dermatologist at CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram.

Dr Passi suggests wearing comfortable lightweight sneakers for outdoor activities, or breathable sandals or open-toed footwear to battle the heat during summer.

But what about dryness and sun damage caused by wearing open footwear during summer?

“Wearing open footwear cannot lead to dry skin, but not taking care of your feet definitely does. It is better to pay attention to your feet just like you take care of your hands and other parts of the body. One has to stay vigilant when it comes to foot health,” adds Dr Rinky Kapoor, dermatologist and dermato-surgeon at The Esthetic Clinics, Mumbai. Washing your feet properly and applying moisturiser before hitting the bed can help deal with this.

Whereas in winter, it goes without saying that shoes are a better choice, for they keep your feet warm.
“Wear closed footwear during winter to keep the feet warm and avoid tripping and falling accidents. Woollen slippers will also be helpful,” says Dr Rinky Kapoor.

During hot and humid seasons, poor hygiene can become a cause of concern.

“Closed shoes or closed footwear can lead to the trapping of dirt and debris on your feet, which can lead to skin problems and allergies. Moreover, people experience an annoying problem called athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, which is a common fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet,” explains Dr Kapoor.

Wearing breathable socks, washing feet properly, and not sharing towels is essential to prevent such issues.

Keeping open footwear woes at bay

Taking good care of your feet becomes pertinent when you mostly wear open footwear.

“Keep the feet clean during the night and apply a moisturiser, apply foot scrub once a week to remove the dead skin and exfoliate the feet, trim ingrown nails, and opt for regular pedicures (from reputed places) to keep the feet clean,” says Dr Kapoor.

Daily moisturising will keep your skin smooth and free of cracks.

Dr Deepali Bhardwaj, meanwhile, shares a hack that she personally swears by – putting 100 grams of crushed camphor in a bottle of Listerine, mixing it well, and applying it under your feet. You can use this remedy thrice a month. It will help keep the skin slightly younger, make it look softer, and delay the need for a pedicure.

Remember...

It is also important to note that open footwear, though hassle-free, fails to provide proper arch support. Apart from climate-dependent skincare concerns, your footwear should ideally be comfortable and provide enough support so that less pressure is put on your feet, ligaments, and knees.

“Open shoes may not offer enough protection or support, which raises the possibility of blisters, injuries, and foot issues. To preserve overall foot health, it's best to switch between open and closed shoes, making sure you have enough arch support and cushioning,” suggests Dr Passi.

“If you're wearing open footwear, try alternating it with sneakers—it’s a good idea for your overall health. As a practising dermatologist, even though I sometimes wear open footwear to show off my pedicure, I make sure to switch to sneakers when walking, taking my dogs out. I try to wear sneakers daily when I go for walks,” says Dr Bhardwaj.

Otherwise, avoid wearing completely flat open footwear; ensure the footwear provides sufficient arch support, cushioned soles for impact absorption, and comfortable straps that won't dig into your skin during extended wear.