Sweaty feet are a common problem many people who spend all day in their work boots face. From construction workers and hunters to police officers and military personnel, you are not alone in your struggle. Normally, you want to know – how to keep feet from sweating in work boots? Sometimes, the sweating is caused by low-quality boots and the solution is simple – buy quality American made boots.
However, there are other solutions, too. While we’re at it, sweaty feet are definitely something you should try to take care of as soon as you can. It is not just an inconvenience. Besides the odor and itching, sweaty feet are the perfect breeding ground for different bacteria, which can cause long term health problems. Here are 5 ways you can get rid of sweaty feet.
Seek Medical Advice
Before we explain how to keep feet from sweating in work boots, we must stress that sometimes, the normal means just don’t cut it and you need to seek medical advice. Your problem could be caused by a medical condition, such as hyperhidrosis, which requires professional attention. If you suspect this may be the cause, or no other solutions work for you, go to a doctor.
1. The Best Breathable Work Boots Help Your Feet from Sweating
Having sweaty feet in boots is perfectly normal, to a certain extent. Especially if you are working in warm weather and doing a physically demanding job. Sweating is a normal way for your body to react to increased body temperatures. However, a good pair of boots can prevent the build-up of sweat and accompanying odor. Let's deal with the obvious first - don't wear winter boots during summer.
Consider having 2 pairs of boots for hot and cold weather, or get multi-purpose boots. The best breathable work boots have a mesh lining that wicks away excess moisture and lets your feet breathe. In general, leather hot weather boots are better at this than rubber boots, as rubber seals your feet tighter and the material doesn’t allow enough airflow.
If your workplace conditions allow it, you should get non-insulated and non-waterproof boots. While waterproof and good insulated boots are very important for cold weather and wet terrain, they also seal your feet, causing more sweating. Boots or breathable work shoes for sweaty feet should be your first line of defense against sweaty feet.
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2. Shoe Inserts Can Help With Sweaty Feet
Shoe inserts are an easy solution to help with sweaty feet. They are cheap and you won’t have any trouble finding appropriate sizes. Besides helping with flat fleet, they also absorb moisture, which keeps your feet dry. Some even include special fragrances, which can help with any potential odor.
3. Another Simple Fix – Wear Appropriate and Absorbent Socks
This may be unnecessary to mention, but wear seasonal socks. For warm weather, you should wear light, thin socks, while you wear thicker socks during winter. However, what you may not know is that cotton is not the best material for you, as it can cause you to have sweaty feet in boots.
High-quality cotton is generally a good material for socks, but not when it comes to wicking away moisture. You should go for socks made of polyester, Coolmax, and merino wool, or any other material that prevents the build-up of moisture. These materials absorb moisture, so the socks will end up damp, but your feet will sweat-free. And changing socks at the end of the day is no issue.
4. Foot Powders and Antiperspirants Can Keep Your Feet Dry
Foot powders and antiperspirants are sold over the counter in any local pharmacy or drug store, and many regular shops too. They are intended to absorb excess moisture and prevent sweating, which allows your feet to remain dry and odorless.
However, don’t mix powders and antiperspirants, as the combination can have the opposite effect of what you are looking for. Powders work better for some people, while antiperspirant spray is better for others. Try both out and see what works for you.
Using Foot Powders
Your best bet is to get the ones that have antibacterial properties – they can lessen the odor that comes with sweaty feet. Before you go to work, wash your feet and sprinkle some powder on them before you put on socks. Put some in your boots before you go to work, too. The powder will keep your feet from sweating excessively.
Now, many powders are advertised as having long-lasting effects (up to six months!). While this is highly unlikely, they are not expensive and you should use them any time you put on your work boots, so all you care about is the daily effect they have.
Antiperspirants Are a Good Solution for Sweaty Feet
An alternative to foot powders is antiperspirants. Their main advantage over powders is just that – your feet won’t be powdery. You could use regular stick and gel antiperspirants, but they are not as effective as sprays. Antiperspirants can work wonders for smelly feet.
Like with powders, keep your feet clean before putting on your work boots and spray an even coat of antiperspirant before you put on your socks. Even with daily use, it will take you a while to get through the can, so this a cost-effective way to help with sweaty feet.
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5. How to Keep Feet From Sweating? – Let Them Breathe
The simplest and easiest solution is to take off your work boots when you can. During your breaks, let your feet dry naturally. Even the best breathable work boots can’t compare to having your feet free. Being barefoot 2-3 times a day for 5-10 minutes will go a long way to prevent excess sweating.
The Best Solution – Combine the Methods
In short, if you are wondering how to keep your feet from sweating in work boots, the answer is – you can’t. Sweating is normal, but combining these five methods can help with excess sweating and bad odor. So: get seasonal and high-quality boots and socks, shoe inserts, use powders or antiperspirant sprays, and let your feet dry naturally when you can.