Chennai's summer is long and intense — afternoon temperatures in May can cross 40°C, and humidity stays high most of the year. Hot pavements, sweaty feet and swelling by evening are everyday problems. For people with diabetes, the heat adds real risks.
How heat affects your feet
- Swelling — heat widens blood vessels, so feet and ankles swell, especially by evening.
- Sweat and friction — damp skin rubs more, causing blisters and fungal infection.
- Burns — hot roads, terraces and temple floors can burn the soles, and people with reduced sensation may not feel it.
- Dry, cracked heels — from heat, dust and open footwear.
Summer foot care checklist
- Never walk barefoot outdoors — not on terraces, beaches or hot stone.
- Wash and dry feet every evening, especially between the toes.
- Moisturise heels to prevent cracks (not between the toes).
- Drink enough water — dehydration worsens swelling and fatigue.
- Raise your feet for 15 minutes after coming home.
- Inspect your feet daily if you have diabetes (daily foot care tips).
- Avoid the hottest hours (roughly noon to 4 PM) for walks and errands.
Choosing summer footwear
- Open strap sandals let air circulate — cooler than closed shoes for daily wear.
- Breathable Micro Touch uppers feel softer on sweaty skin than hard synthetic straps.
- Cushioned MCP footbed — still essential; heat doesn't change the need for support.
- Adjustable straps to loosen as feet swell through the day (swollen feet guide).
- Light colours stay slightly cooler in direct sun.
For men, wide toe-box strap sandals such as the AJM 12 and cross-strap styles like the AJM 11 are popular summer choices. Women often prefer light strap sandals or orthopedic flip-flops like the AJL 430 for home.
Walking footwear in summer
If you walk for exercise, go early morning or after sunset. A breathable walking shoe with thin cotton socks works well; change socks if they become damp. Read walking for diabetes.
Burning feet at night?
Burning feet in hot weather can simply be heat and fatigue — but in people with diabetes it can also signal neuropathy. If it is frequent, tell your doctor (neuropathy guide).
Cracked heels in summer
Dust, heat and open footwear dry out the skin on the heels, which can crack — and deep cracks can become painful or infected, especially with diabetes.
- Soak feet in lukewarm water for 10 minutes in the evening.
- Pat dry and apply a thick moisturiser to the heels.
- Wear cotton socks overnight after moisturising, if comfortable.
- Choose footwear with a heel cup or back strap, which protects the heel better than completely open slippers.
- See a doctor for deep, bleeding or painful cracks, particularly if you have diabetes.
Fungal infections in hot, humid weather
Sweaty feet trapped in footwear are ideal for fungal infections between the toes (athlete's foot). Dry between the toes after every wash, rotate footwear so each pair dries fully, and choose breathable uppers. Treat itching or peeling early.
What to keep in your bag in summer
- A small towel to dry sweaty feet
- A spare pair of thin cotton socks (if you wear closed shoes)
- Water to stay hydrated
- Moisturiser for your heels
Summer-friendly choices from our range
Strap sandals with Micro Touch uppers, light orthopedic flip-flops for home and breathable knit walking shoes for early-morning walks make up the most popular summer combination for Chennai customers.
