Closeup of bright flip flops and legs on green grass

travnikovstudio/iStock/Getty Images

Sandals may be the all-time footwear for plunging your feet into the sand or going for a summertime stroll, but they tin besides be a pain in your tender toes. Thong sandals rub against the skin next to your big toe, strappy sandals leave their own angry scarlet marks, and hard insoles put distance-walking out of the question. Make this warm-weather staple a scrap more bearable with a few adjustments.

Cull Cloth Wisely

The first step toward a more comfortable sandal begins at the shoe shop. Consider the activity you'll be doing while donning the footwear, and note any sensitivities you feel while trying on the sandal. Option a shoe with cloth or soft leather straps over plastic or other harsh materials, and beware of embellishments that might rub against skin. Opt for a cushioned footbed if you know you'll be doing some walking. Cheap rubber flip-flops may be great for beach wear, but the thong can irritate your peel betwixt your toes. Inspect the cloth on the toe grip for any protrusions that could be causing your discomfort, and trim down the rubber with toenail clippers.

Comfy Cushioning

Invest in an insole that is slim and trim enough to be unimposing with the most strappy of sandals. These can run the length of the sandal or be full-bodied at the ball of the foot. If you're slipping on a thong sandal, check out inserts that residuum under the ball of the pes and take a groove to fit effectually the shoe's toe grip. This keeps your foot from sliding back and forth in the shoe while y'all walk, thus cutting down on the friction that can cause sores and irritation.

On Guard Against Blisters

Put a stop to painful rubbing with some ingenious products that won't detract from your fashion statement. Endeavour peculiarly made strips that attach to the within of sandal straps to put a barrier between your skin and the cloth. If you know that at that place'south a hot spot in the sandal -- an area of the insole or straps that is especially punishing to your human foot -- try sticking a small-scale circular gel pad to this expanse. Foot-health manufacturers also make a clear waxy cicatrice guard that comes in stick course to simply swipe on areas that need a scrap of actress protection.

Sock It to Sandals

One time the proverbial manner faux pas, designers are taking notice of the desire to put a comfortable layer of textile between vulnerable feet and a summer sandal. This tin simply be a nod to a transitional flavor and an actress layer of warmth, but it tin as well add together a compression of practicality -- if you take care to not to expect frumpy. Solid-colour socks in a bold color can balance out a leather sandal, and slim socks with stiletto sandals tin can go along the look sexy. If you're not ready for the full-sock trend, check out the nylons aisle for tubes that slides over your foot, leaving the toes exposed while wrapping the body of your human foot in a bit of extra comfort.