Sneakers vs sandals: What should you pick this monsoon?

The monsoon season brings welcome relief from the heat, but it also creates a common fashion dilemma: should you wear sneakers or sandals? While sneakers offer comfort and support, sandals dry quickly and are better suited for wet conditions. The right choice depends on where you're heading, the weather and your daily routine.

Here's how the two compare during the rainy season.

SNEAKERS

Sneakers remain a favourite for everyday wear because they provide cushioning, stability and protection for your feet. If you're commuting long distances, walking a lot or travelling, a good pair of sneakers can help reduce foot fatigue.

Modern sneakers made with water-resistant materials or quick-drying mesh perform better during light rain. They also offer better grip than many casual shoes.

Best for:

• Office commutes

• Long walks

• Travel

• Gym sessions

• Casual outings on dry or lightly wet days

Downside:

Regular fabric sneakers absorb water easily, take longer to dry and may develop unpleasant odours if they remain damp.

SANDALS

Sandals are often the easiest footwear choice during heavy rains. Since they don't trap water, they dry much faster and are easier to clean after walking through puddles.

Rubber, EVA and waterproof sandals provide good grip while allowing your feet to breathe, making them ideal for humid weather.

Best for:

• Heavy rainfall

• Short errands

• Beach trips

• Casual outings

• Walking through waterlogged streets

Downside:

Open footwear leaves your feet exposed to mud, splashes and small stones. Some flat sandals may also lack proper arch support for extended walking.

WHICH ONE IS SAFER DURING THE RAINS?

Safety should be a priority during the monsoon. Look for footwear with anti-slip rubber soles, regardless of whether you choose sneakers or sandals.

Avoid smooth soles, as they can become slippery on wet tiles, marble floors and uneven pavements.

WHAT MATERIALS WORK BEST?

For sneakers, choose:

• Water-resistant synthetic materials

• Quick-drying mesh

• Rubber outsoles with deep traction

• For sandals, choose:

• EVA foam

• Rubber

• Waterproof synthetic materials

Avoid suede, canvas and leather footwear during heavy rains, as these materials absorb moisture and can get damaged.

CONSIDER YOUR DAILY ROUTINE

Your lifestyle should influence your choice.

• Office workers: Water-resistant sneakers are ideal, but keep a pair of sandals for extremely rainy days.

• Students: Lightweight sneakers with good grip work well unless there's heavy waterlogging.

• Travellers: Waterproof sandals are practical because they dry quickly and are easy to pack.

• Weekend outings: Stylish sandals are perfect for cafs, markets and beach destinations.

DON'T FORGET FOOT HYGIENE

Monsoon moisture creates the perfect environment for bacteria and fungi. Whichever footwear you wear:

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  Dry your feet thoroughly after coming home.

• Change wet socks immediately.

• Let shoes dry completely before wearing them again.

• Wash sandals regularly to remove dirt and bacteria.

There is no one-size-fits-all answer. Sneakers are the better choice for comfort, support and long hours of walking, especially if they're water-resistant. Sandals, on the other hand, are more practical during heavy rain, waterlogging and humid conditions because they dry quickly and keep your feet ventilated.

For the monsoon season, the smartest approach is to keep both in your wardrobe—wear sneakers on relatively dry days and switch to waterproof sandals when the rain is pouring. This way, you'll stay comfortable, safe and stylish throughout the season.