Summer brings longer days, warm sunshine, and the chance to enjoy the outdoors. But it also introduces unique challenges for your feet. From sweat and swelling to changes in footwear and activity levels, your feet go through more than you might realize during the warmer months. If not managed well it could even spell trouble for your shoes and insoles.
Heat Can Cause Swelling
As temperatures rise, your body tries to stay cool by increasing blood flow to the skin. This causes your blood vessels to expand and can lead to foot swelling, sometimes by as much as half a shoe size. When this happens, shoes feel tighter, and friction inside your footwear increases. That added pressure can cause discomfort, especially if you're using insoles that aren't designed to adapt to these changes.
If your shoes feel more snug in summer, you're not imagining things. Without the right insoles, this can lead to blisters, bunions, or general foot fatigue.
Is Summer Swelling Temporary?
Yes, in most cases, heat-related swelling is temporary and usually goes away when you:
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Cool down
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Elevate your feet
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Stay hydrated
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Reduce time standing or walking in the heat
It typically improves once your body returns to its normal temperature and fluid balance. However, if the swelling persists, becomes painful, or occurs in only one foot, it’s a good idea to see a doctor. Those could be signs of a more serious condition, like a blood clot or circulation problem.
Who Is More Likely to Experience Swelling?
Some people are more prone to heat edema than others. These include:
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Older adults – Aging reduces circulation efficiency, making fluid retention more likely.
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Pregnant women – Increased blood volume and hormonal changes make swelling more common.
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People who are overweight – Extra body mass puts more pressure on veins and lymphatic drainage.
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People with circulation issues or varicose veins
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Individuals who stand or sit for long periods – Especially if you're in the heat without moving much.
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Those who eat a high-sodium diet – Salt can cause water retention.
Even healthy, active individuals may notice occasional swelling during summer hikes, travel, or long days on their feet.
Increased Moisture Leads to Odor and Bacteria
Feet have more sweat glands than any other part of the body, and they work overtime in summer. Moisture builds up quickly, especially if your shoes and insoles don’t allow air to circulate.
This creates the perfect environment for bacteria and fungus. Insoles that aren’t breathable can trap this moisture, causing odor and breaking down the insole materials faster. That’s why it’s important to choose insoles that are built for airflow and moisture control. Orange Full Insoles offer both breathability and support, keeping your feet cooler and drier during the heat.
Take note, feet sweating is not the same for everyone. There are individuals that tend to sweat at their extremities (hands and feet) more than others so keep in mind that having breathable insoles is not necessarily a guarantee of keeping your feet dry. Check with your doctor if you feel that your condition might be extraordinarily different and might need some other measures of management other than breathable footwear.
More Activity Means More Pressure On Your Insoles
Summer encourages people to stay active. Folks could be walking more, playing sports, or going on trips. It’s important to note that your feet take a beating from increased movement. This extra wear and tear affects your insoles, too.
Insoles that have been used for months may compress or lose their shape, reducing their ability to support your feet properly. If your insoles look flat, feel less cushioned, or are visibly worn, it might be time for a replacement. Not sure when to replace them? Check out this guide to know when it's time for new insoles.
Summer Foot Care Tips
To keep your feet and insoles in great shape throughout the season, try these practical tips:
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Rotate your shoes to give them time to dry out and breathe.
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Wear moisture-wicking socks to reduce sweat and odor.
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Clean your insoles regularly with mild soap and air dry them completely.
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Avoid flat sandals and instead wear shoes that can hold insoles securely.
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Inspect your insoles and replace them if they look worn or feel less supportive.
Stay Supported All Season
You don’t have to suffer through hot feet, sore arches, or worn-out insoles during summer. With the right footwear and quality insoles, you can stay active and comfortable all season long.
Checking on how your insoles are doing is also important so you won’t find yourself in a situation where you don’t have working support for your shoes. Shop Orange Insoles now and make sure you got an extra pair or two just in case your current pair needs immediate replacing.
