Tired feet in sealed shoes create a hot, damp environment. This happens because sweat cannot escape, increasing humidity and causing odors. Materials and shoe fit significantly impact airflow. Breathable shoes allow air to circulate, managing te...
Your pair of shoes that have been removed at the end of a tiring day usually feels hot and somewhat damp. But if the shoe is immediately sealed, this might exacerbate the situation. This is because there are dynamics about heat and moisture that occur when the two are confined within a space.
As stated in an article in ScienceDirect, the microclimate created inside the shoe depends on its temperature, humidity, and ventilation. With shoes being sealed, sweat cannot escape; thus creating a humid environment that will create odors. In normal activities, air flow regulates temperature and moisture, but with sealing, these functions cease to exist.
How do materials and fit affect airflow?
Similarly, the composition of the shoe is just as critical. As seen from research conducted on ScienceDirect, the permeability of the material has a direct impact on heat dissipation. In other words, shoes composed of impermeable materials will trap more moisture inside compared to those that are more breathable. The fit of the shoe is also relevant. In instances where the footwear is tighter, there is less air space left within the shoes, thus reducing the amount of heat dissipated naturally due to the movement. This interplay between low airflow and moisture causes an increase in temperature, resulting in the growth of bacteria that produces the odor.
Image Credit: Gemini
You need to let your shoes breathe
It is necessary for one to let his/her shoes get air because of its importance in balancing the ratio of warmth and moisture content. Scientific research done regarding the ventilation of footwear indicates that natural flow of air is vital in managing temperature and reducing humidity efficiently. This becomes even more important with developments like breathable insoles that allow air to flow within the shoe. One does not need to keep their shoes isolated in order to keep them in a good condition, but it is better for them to get air.
