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Sweaty feet is one of the biggest problems police officers, soldiers, hunters, and people who work all day have with their boots. Not only is it uncomfortable, but heat and sweat creates the perfect breeding ground for bacteria and fungus, which can cause itching, peeling, cracking, odor, and pain.
The tips below will help you to keep your feet from sweating in your boots as long as you do not have a medical condition like hyperhidrosis.
#1 – Choose The Right Boots
If you work in a high-temperature environment and there is very little chance that you will encounter puddles or other water sources, you should forego the waterproof boots and instead choose warm weather options such as military boots, summer boots, or a lightweight general purpose boot. Any of these options are more breathable and lightweight, so they will keep your feet much cooler than their heavier waterproof or insulated counterparts.
#2 – Wear Absorbent Socks
If your feet continue to sweat, even after switching to a lightweight, breathable boot, then make sure you invest in some quality, absorbent socks. Cotton is a popular material but is not the best choice for hot feet! The goal is to wick the moisture away from your feet to help prevent athlete’s foot, odor, and blisters. Better materials include merino wool, polyester, Coolmax, Olefin, and DryMax or a combination of these. Even though your socks may end up damp at the end of the day, your feet should remain dry and comfortable.
There is also no reason why you can’t bring extra socks and change them as needed throughout the day when you need a dry pair.
Check out our reviews of the best socks for work boots for some great options to try.
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#3 – Try Cooling Foot Powder
If you have only mild to moderate foot sweat, you might want to consider using a top-rated foot powder. These come in many formulations, and some even provide cooling relief on contact. Apply the powder directly to your feet before putting on your socks, and sprinkle some inside your each day before putting them on. The powder will absorb extra moisture.
#4 – Use an Antiperspirant
Another thing you can try involves using a spray-on powder antiperspirant on your feet each day before you lace up your work boots. Hold the can about six inches from your foot, spread your toes, and spray on a light, even coat. This may help reduce the amount of sweat your feet produce, but it does not work for everyone. Stick, gel, and roll-on antiperspirants are not as effective on feet as spray powders.
#5 – Let Your Feet Breathe
Finally, if you are in a situation that allows it, just take your boots and socks off on your breaks and let your feet breathe! Taking the time to dry them out and cool them off two or three times per day can go a long way to maintaining your comfort, keeping itchy athlete’s foot at bay, and even preventing the odor.
Hyperhidrosis
Palmoplantar hyperhidrosis is the medical condition of excessive sweat from the soles of the feet. Here are some of the more involved medical solutions to this problem, which could be suggested by your doctor.
Super advice will defo be trying some as I’m a security guard who works outdoor in the hot weather. I’ve had a lot of problems with athletes foot and some of these may help.
The topic is just what I need! I find that I cannot put on my cowboy boots without socks. Socks can solve any problems with sweating or unpleasant smell and blisters. It can help put on/take off the boots smoothly. For me, wool socks would be the best choice!
Nice article. Socks have a purpose but, the problem is that most socks are similar. A good sock has antibacterials that are organic. This keeps the odor away for days. A sock should be designed for the shape of the human foot so there’s less friction over areas like the heel and ball of the foot. Getting a boot on is also a major problem. A good boot sock with the right technology built-in lets you slide into and out of tight-fitting boots with ease.