Ditch the Sweat: Master the Art of Dry Feet in Sandals and Flip Flops

It’s nearly summertime, and that means hotter temperatures… and for some people, the anxiety of sweating more than usual. While many of us worry about sweaty underarms, back, or face, rising temperatures can also negatively affect our feet. Keep reading to learn how to stop sweating in flip flops and sandals.

If you're having difficulty managing summertime foot sweat, this article offers useful tips on how to choose the right footwear and ways to manage your symptoms.

We'll discuss the importance of shoes made from breathable materials, styles that promote airflow, and how proper sandal size and hygiene practices play a crucial role in reducing foot sweat.

Furthermore, we'll delve into ways to slow or stop foot sweat, like using antiperspirants and powder and natural substances for foot soaks. We’ll also look at how moisture-wicking socks and inserts may be beneficial in the heat.

Originally published in May 2023; updated in 2024 and 2025.

Choosing Summertime Footwear for Sweaty Feet

When it comes to summer footwear, sandals and flip flops are a popular choice. However, they can cause your feet to sweat excessively, leading to discomfort, odor, and the risk of slipping. When looking for sandals or flip flops for sweaty feet, there are a few key features that you should look for.

• Consider footwear made from breathable or natural materials that allow air to circulate around your feet and help wick away moisture.
• Look for products with footbeds made from materials that can absorb moisture and/or wick it away to keep your feet dry.
• Choose sandals with stretchy elastic or air mesh toppers: These materials offer excellent breathability while still providing adequate support and comfort for your feet.
• When selecting flip flops, it's also important to choose those with minimal upper material. This design allows for better airflow around your feet, reducing perspiration.
• Ensure proper fit with adequate wiggle room. A well-fitted sandal reduces friction, which may lead to increased sweating.

Check out these flip flops that are ideal for sweaty feet:

OluKai 'Ohana Flip-Flops

Made with a water-resistant synthetic leather strap and a soft, quick-drying jersey knit lining. The footbed is made with a compression-molded EVA midsole that provides cushioning and support. The non-marking rubber outsole has a coral reef lug design that provides traction on wet surfaces. The footbed is designed to wick away moisture and keep your feet dry. (Buy on Amazon)

Rainbow Sandals Premier Leather Single Layer Flip-Flops

Made from premium leather that is tanned using natural vegetable dyes. The leather straps are soft and comfortable, and the footbed is made from a non-slip material that molds to the shape of your foot over time. The sole is made from natural rubber that provides traction and durability. (Buy on Amazon) 

Ways to Manage or Reduce Foot Sweat

To keep summer sweating at bay, there are several approaches to help manage or reduce excessive foot perspiration. From applying antiperspirants to soaking your feet, check out these tips to keep your feet dry and comfortable no matter the temperature outside.

• Apply antiperspirant to the bottoms of your feet. Antiperspirants are particularly effective as they stop excessive sweating before it starts. For severe cases, consider using clinical-strength antiperspirants, which are available without a prescription.
• Try using Zeasorb powder, which can provide relief from excessive sweating and keep your feet feeling fresh.
• Soak your feet in black tea. The tannins in the tea help constrict the sweat glands, and their antibacterial properties help control odor-causing bacteria.
• Incorporate antifungal foot powders. Using an antifungal foot powder can prevent odor-causing bacteria growth (often exasperated by sweat).
• Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water helps maintain proper body temperature, reducing the need for excess sweating.
  

More Helpful Tips to Use Any Time of Year

Sweaty feet can be troublesome year-round. Check out these tips to help minimize perspiration and odor.

• Utilize shoe inserts to help control sweaty feet. Key features include: breathability, ventilation, and anti-slip properties. There are even products that are designed to be worn with sandals or flip flops for summertime use.
• Choose socks that are breathable and/or wick away moisture. As with inserts, look for properties that keep feet dry, cool, and comfortable... like our very own dress socks.

We think our socks are the best at keeping sweaty feet comfortable and odor-free! But don't just take our word for it.

Ejis Customer Kyle says, "These socks look cool, feel comfortable, and best of all... keep my girlfriend from hating me more than she already does when I come home and remove my shoes after work."

Why all of the praise? Ejis dress socks are infused with silver to combat serious odor and feature a terry loop design and mesh ventilation zones to improve circulation and keep feet dry and cool. (Buy on our website)

Take control of foot sweat and odor this summer!

Preventing sweaty feet in flip flops and sandals is achievable by choosing breathable footwear, using antiperspirants and other remedies. By incorporating these tips into your daily summer routine, you can enjoy wearing flip flops and sandals without worrying about excessive sweat or odor.

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