Shoes and the rain

CEBU, Philippines - Shoes that are appropriate for the wet weather are often a neglected consideration until the last minute, but shoes that protect the feet from the elements are as important a part of the rainy day gear as the raincoat or the umbrella.

“Wearing suitable footwear during the rainy season is important. Trudging through the water, there’s always a risk of foot odor and fungal infection,” says Dr. Giselle Mary Lazaro, a dermatologist at the Makati Medical Center and NU.U Asia Center. She stresses that bacteria and fungi grow rapidly in high humidity, so we are more prone to infection during the wet, humid rainy season.

Gilson Chu of Shoemakers Shop says, “Waterproof shoes are most commendable. This means that the construction and materials of the shoes are designed to keep water out.”

But water resistance should not be the only consideration, asserts Dr. Lazaro. “Choose shoes that will make your feet breathe and will easily dry,” she says. “Breathable” shoes absorb sweat and wick it away through tiny holes on the outer sole. A knowledgeable salesperson should be able to point customers to shoes and brands that have this feature. Materials such as canvas or cotton also allow the feet to breathe.

It is also vital for shoes to have good traction, to prevent slipping and falling. The features of the outsole – the bottom of the shoe – are very important this season for that reason, says Gilson Chu. “Outsoles should have more aggressive designs and be ‘siped,’ or wavy, to prevent slipping.” Siping is the process of making grooves or slits in rubber to give it more traction – a must for any shoe with a rubber sole.

Rubber shoes and sneakers are most common and practical samples of shoes with grip soles, and they are also easy to clean and easy to dry. In addition, they come in various colors that will help lift the spirits even when the sky is weeping buckets.

There’s actually no need to sacrifice looking good while protecting the feet from the raging waters. “Platform wedges and platform heels are women’s answer to rainy day blues,” says Joan Ross Yao of ELLE Girl, which offers a variety of styles including heeled athletic shoes, booties, platforms and wedges. “We have to also consider the mobility of women during the rain. Commuters and pedestrians especially need non-slip shoes to avoid accidents.”

When one finally gets home from the downpour outside, it’s time to take off his or her shoes. What to do with shoes? Instead of just leaving them lying around, the following may be done:

• Air-dry them before storing.

• Use absorbent gels, which can rid the shoes of moisture quickly.

• Try stuffing them with crumpled newspaper or manila paper, as these are also effective for removing odor.

• Check the shoes’ care instructions on how to clean them; wash them if permitted.

As for caring for the feet during the showers, Dr. Lazaro gives a few reminders:

• Socks are a must. They act as a barrier between the shoe material and the skin.

• Always wash feet after exposure to water or flood – and wash them well, with soap and water, before drying them thoroughly.

• Do not wear wet shoes.

• If rash or redness occurs, and odor exudes from your feet, consult a dermatologist for a definitive diagnosis.

Photos courtesy of Sebago and Bensimon. (FREEMAN)