Why you should never wear shoes without socks

Next time you slip on your backless mules before heading out, you may want to rethink your outfit choice, as research suggests that wearing shoes without socks could prove dangerous.

According to the College of Podiatry, there has been a rise in the number of fungal infections such as Athlete’s Foot, as a consequence to the bare ankle phenomenon.

And it’s surprisingly not women who are pioneering the trend, as men are increasingly opting to don loafers without a trusty pair of cotton socks (we knew Love Island was a bad influence).]

Emma Stevenson from the College of Podiatry, informed The Telegraph of the risks involved with going bare, saying sweat levels are a serious concern.

“Depending on the level of sweatiness of the foot, there may be issues with too much moisture in the feet, which can leave you vulnerable to fungal infections such as Athlete’s Foot," said Emma.

She continued, “On average your feet will sweat half a pint a day; that’s a lot to be pouring out straight into your shoe without it being absorbed by a sock.”

But if you’re not quite ready to sacrifice fashion then there are thankfully ways to combat the issue.

How to prevent Athlete’s Foot

Emma recommends that you give shoes 48 hours to dry out after wearing them in order to prevent bacteria breeding in your favourite loafers.

RELATED: Aussie men wearing platform shoes to look taller
RELATED: 7 stomach-churning shoe selfies over NYC

She also advises placing tea bags in the bottom of your shoes to absorb excess moisture. It’s also recommended that you don’t wear the same pair of shoes every day (regardless of how much you love them).

But no matter how serious the health risks are, we still don’t recommend wearing socks and sandals…

Want more celebrity, entertainment and lifestyle news? Follow Be on Facebook,Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram.