The Sandal Season Grooming Playbook for Men

As sandal season kicks into high gear, the question on every man’s mind isn’t just which pair of slides or open-toed shoes to rock—it’s whether your feet are ready for the spotlight. While some men swear by keeping their toes hidden at all costs, others are all about the laid-back flip-flop life, and a few are jumping into the latest sandal trends just to stay on point. Regardless of which camp you fall into, foot care is an essential part of personal hygiene—and this summer, it’s time to step up your game.

Foot Care for Every Type of Guy

Men’s foot care needs can differ greatly depending on your lifestyle. So whether you’re a homebody, an active sports enthusiast, or a hard-working office professional, here’s how to tailor your foot care routine:

1. The Homebody
You know who you are—keeping it comfy, never leaving the house without your slippers. One thing many homebodies overlook, though, is the importance of keeping your feet clean and well-maintained. A common mistake is using the same nail clipper for both hands and feet, which can spread bacteria and fungi.

Solution: Invest in separate clippers for your hands and feet. Since toenails are tougher and larger, choose a clipper with a wider blade. Be sure not to cut too much off the nail to avoid painful ingrown nails. And after each trim, don’t forget to disinfect your clippers with alcohol wipes to kill off any lingering germs.

2. The Active Athlete
For the fitness fanatic, summer often means a surge in sweat—and let’s be honest, sweaty feet in the heat can lead to some serious foot funk. Whether you’re hitting the gym, running outdoors, or just doing your daily workout, sweaty feet are almost inevitable.

Solution: After every workout or outdoor session, make sure your feet are thoroughly cleaned and dried—especially between your toes. Moisture left behind after washing will breed bacteria, so keep a couple of clean socks on hand to change into once your feet start to feel damp. Let your sneakers breathe and dry out between wears, and consider using bamboo charcoal bags inside your shoes to absorb moisture and eliminate odor.

3. The Office Worker
Long hours on your feet or at a desk can wreak havoc on your feet, especially if you’re in dress shoes. Even the best leather shoes can create pressure points, resulting in thick calluses, blisters, and even yellowing skin. And that’s not even the worst of it—over time, those hard calluses can form unsightly patches that are a dead giveaway that you’re neglecting your foot care.

Solution: Regular exfoliation is key. Invest in foot peels or scrubs, or use a pumice stone in the shower to remove dead skin. Afterward, hydrate with a rich foot cream or lotion to lock in moisture and protect the skin. Don’t forget to treat your feet to a quick foot bath at night—it’s a great way to relax and soften up any stubborn calluses.

Essential Foot Care Tips You Need for Sandal Season

With your feet exposed more than usual, foot care isn’t something to gloss over. Here are a few simple yet effective tips to keep your feet healthy, smooth, and ready for sandals:

1. Exfoliate and Clean Regularly
Every two weeks, use a gentle exfoliating scrub or foot stone to slough off dead skin from your heels and the soles of your feet. Dry, cracked skin is not only unattractive but can also lead to painful fissures.

After washing, be sure to dry your feet completely—especially between the toes, where moisture can linger and encourage fungal growth.

2. Moisturize Daily
After washing your feet, apply a rich foot cream or body lotion to keep your skin hydrated. Look for creams with ingredients like shea butter, urea, or vitamin E—these will help repair dry, cracked skin and keep your feet feeling soft. At night, for extra hydration, try layering on a thick foot cream and wearing cotton socks to lock in moisture.

3. Protect with Sunscreen
Don’t forget that your feet are just as susceptible to sunburn as the rest of your body. Apply sunscreen to the tops of your feet before heading out in sandals, especially if you’re planning on spending extended time outdoors.

Choose breathable sandals with soft soles and good coverage to prevent chafing and protect your feet from harsh sun exposure.

Signs Your Feet Need Some TLC

Even if you’re diligent about foot care, sometimes neglect can take its toll. If you notice any of these issues, don’t panic—proper maintenance can bring your feet back to their best self.

1. Cracked Heels or Peeling Skin
Cracked heels are a common issue, especially if you wear sandals or flip-flops often. These rough, dry patches are not only unsightly but can get worse with exposure to the sun.

Solution: Regular exfoliation and nightly foot treatments are key to softening your heels. Consider using a foot mask for a more intense treatment.

2. Overgrown or Discolored Toenails
Long, yellowed, or dirty toenails are a red flag for poor foot care. Summer sandals leave little to the imagination, so make sure your nails are neat, trimmed, and free from discoloration.

Solution: Keep nails trimmed and filed regularly, and finish with a transparent topcoat to keep them looking fresh. For extra polish, opt for a neutral or light-colored nail polish to keep things sharp and clean.

Foot Care Doesn’t Have to Be Hard

Maintaining good foot hygiene is straightforward—it just takes a little consistency. Whether you’re prone to sweaty feet or long hours in dress shoes, a little effort can go a long way in keeping your feet comfortable and presentable.

Quick Foot Care Hacks:

• Stay Dry: If your feet sweat a lot, sprinkle foot powder between your toes and on the tops of your feet before slipping on your shoes.
• Air + Moisturize: After washing, dry your feet thoroughly and apply a rich foot lotion to keep them hydrated.
• Soak + Massage: A warm foot soak can improve circulation, relieve stress, and promote better sleep—add essential oils like lavender for an extra relaxing touch.

Consultation by George 9, Premier Nail Lounge
First published on gq.com.tw