8 annoying summer foot problems (and how to fix them)

Date July 4, 2016

Feet have a tough time in the summer. Squeezed into strappy sandals, barefoot in box-fresh sneakers and lots of long, sweaty walks mean your toes are in for plenty of abuse over the next few months. Regular pedicures can help, but a care package filled with blister balm, cushiony bandages and quick-clean wipes will have you stepping in the right direction in no time. Throw in stink-squashing spray, a new set of coloured laces and instant glue, too, for the ultimate kit.

Click below for 8 fast fixes to solve every summer foot problem.

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summer foot fixes

Dirty white sneakers

For those fresh white sneaks with grass stains, spills and dirt, a pack of grease- and grime-busting wipes are the easiest way to bring your shoes back from the brink.

Sneaker Rescue Wipes, $8, bootrescue.ca

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Busted shoelaces

There’s nothing worse than hurrying to tie your laces as you rush out the door and have one snap in your fingers. Prepare for the inevitable with a pack of cute coloured laces so you never have to make a last-minute shoe swap again.

Aldo shoelaces, $10, aldoshoes.com

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Not wanting to go sock-less

If you’re wearing low-cut flats or sneakers but don’t want to sacrifice the look of going bare, go for a micro sock. They’re also perfect for a recovery day after wearing a particularly abusive pair.

Hue liner socks, $9, shop.nordstrom.com

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summer foot fixes

Stinky feet

In the summer, sweaty feet and going sockless is a recipe for smelly toes. Combat odour with a quick pump of this shoe refresher. Think of it as Febreeze for your feet.

Tana Shoe Freshener, $8, sportinglife.ca

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summer foot fixes

Rubbing heels, toes and arches

Breaking in brand-new sandals is a tough task. Until the shoe and all its straps have a chance to take on the shape of your foot, there are a few days of pain involved. Tackle the rubbing with a generous smear of this invisible slippery balm. Instant relief.

Body Glide Foot Anti Blister Balm, $8, amazon.com

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summer foot fixes

Separated soles or torn straps

This is a must-have in your shoe-care arsenal. A torn strap or lifted sole can derail your day. A quick dab of this multipurpose glue is all it takes to get you back on your feet.

Shoe Goo, $10, canadiantire.ca

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summer foot fixes

Painful pressure

Ultra-flat soles and vertiginous heels can both put a lot of pressure on the balls of your feet. Give yourself cloud-like gel cushioning in the shape of peel-and-stick pads.

Novi Foot Cushions, $6, callitspring.com

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summer foot fixes

Blisters

When a blister does bubble up, the best thing you can do is let it heal on its own. A cushiony blister bandage will prevent further damage and lock out water and dirt, too. Keep these in place for a couple of days to let the healing start before you strip them off.

Band-Aid Advanced Healing Blister Cushions, $6, drugstore.com