As the European summer beckons, many Australians eagerly pack their bags, dreaming of cobblestone streets, sun-drenched vineyards, and azure coastlines.

But before you jet off, an important consideration might save your holiday, and it's all about what you pack for your feet.

Sydney podiatrist Dr Sean Fitzpatrick has issued a stern warning that could make you rethink your shoe choices.

Dr Fitzpatrick cautioned against the allure of fashionable footwear, including Jellies, trendy sandals, and thongs, and popular brands like Havaianas.

While these may look great and feel light for packing, they could lead to serious health issues.

The lack of support in these shoes increases the workload on your feet, potentially causing fatigue, pain, and long-term damage to your feet and lower legs.

A Sydney podiatrist cautioned Australians on holiday to avoid wearing poorly structured flat shoes. Credit: Shutterstock

Conditions such as stressed joints, severe pain, Achilles issues, plantar fasciitis, and even lower back, knees, or hip discomfort could all stem from the wrong shoe choice.

The resurgence of Jelly shoes, a nostalgic nod to the 90s, is particularly concerning for those planning extensive walking.

These shoes, while stylish, offer little support for your feet' mechanics and are made from PVC, which can cause blisters and lead to fungal and bacterial infections in hot weather.

‘Jelly shoes are not something that is endorsed or recommended by a podiatrist - a more reasonable alternative is a Birkenstock,’ Dr Fitzpatrick claimed.

For those who prioritise foot health but still want to enjoy their travels in style, Dr Fitzpatrick recommended solid walking or running shoes such as Brooks Glycerin and Adrenaline or Asics Kayano for those long sightseeing days.

‘For more trendy options on days with less vigorous walking or hiking, brands such as Frankie4, Bared and Department of Finery are great,’ he added.

'It is recommended that you try all shoes on before purchasing to reduce the risk of potential fitting issues such as blisters, corns or callouses,’

Dr Fitzpatrick also emphasises the importance of breaking into new shoes well before embarking on your holiday to avoid discomfort.

For those tempted to go barefoot, be warned.

‘Short periods of walking barefoot are okay. However, if you are out sightseeing, good supportive footwear is strongly recommended,’ Dr Fitzpatrick said.

‘We use a Zebris force analysis treadmill that accurately assesses an individual's movement patterns. This allows us to identify any underlying mechanical issues or weaknesses,’

‘For treatment, we offer shockwave therapy, high-powered laser, dry needling, foot orthotics, and strengthening advice.’

A pro tip from the podiatrist for maintaining foot health while travelling is to pack a tennis ball.

This simple tool can massage the soles of your feet, easing tight spots and providing relief after a long day of exploration.

It can also work out tension in shoulders and backs and common complaints from long flights and carrying luggage.

For those who can't resist packing their Jelly shoes or other less practical footwear, limit the time you wear them, avoid extensive walking, and always have a comfortable alternative.

Similarly, a doctor emphasised that merely allowing soapy water to run over your feet in the shower is insufficient for preventing infections and maintaining proper foot hygiene.

To effectively prevent bacterial build-up, it's crucial to scrub your feet thoroughly with soap and water, paying attention to areas between the toes and heels. More details on this advice can be found here.

Key Takeaways

• A Sydney podiatrist has cautioned Australians heading to Europe on holiday to avoid wearing Jellies, trendy sandals, thongs, or any poorly structured flat shoes due to potential health issues.
• Dr Sean Fitzpatrick pointed out that such shoes can cause long-term issues with feet and lower legs, including severe pain and musculoskeletal injuries.
• The podiatrist recommended more supportive footwear options, such as Birkenstock sandals or proper walking or running shoes, to prevent these problems.
• It was suggested that you break into new shoes before a holiday and consider alternatives like Frankie4, Bared, and Department of Finery for less demanding days.

What are your go-to shoes for comfort and style on holiday? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below.

 

[Colette 3799]

Sketchers all the way for everyday and walking. I wore Havianas for years, now for hot days I wear Archies. They look the same but have an arch support which is so important, especially as we age.

 

[PattiB]

I only buy Ziera footwear. Great for wider feet & so comfortable.

 

[David567]

Always someone giving their professional opinions about what we shoud and shouldn't wear, No mention on the stupid spikes women wear everyday.

 

[Barbara V]

I wear what gives me comfort even thongs.But I buy the good ones that last

 

[Veggiepatch]

Sketchers all the way for everyday and walking. I wore Havianas for years, now for hot days I wear Archies. They look the same but have an arch support which is so important, especially as we age.

Sketchers are the worst ever imitation of a sports shoe ever produced. Their website mysteriously rate their footwear a 5.0/5, while productreview.com.au has a 1.3/5 rating at last look.

The compleatfeet website in the UK has reported tens of thousands of complaints about Sketchers, ranging from ankle strains and sprains to permanent disabling ligament and tendon damage. There are even calls for them to be banned from sale in the UK by numerous podiatrists.

The culprit? The thickness of the ankle support. Compared to proper sports shoes such as Asics and Adidas, the thickness of ankle support on Sketchers is less than half of than most other brands of quality sports shoes.

 

[Jan Purcell]

I was told by my doctor to wear crocks, I have the cheap ones, and the dearer ones that look like the usual shoes, so very comfortable, but unfortunately in Melbourne the crock shoe shops are no more.