Typically associated with teenagers and athletes, foot shoe odour is a common and bothersome issue. However, smelly shoes and feet don’t discriminate. Literally anyone can suffer from foot and shoe odour if the conditions are right. And unfortunately, these odours can also be stubborn. Once your feet or shoes start to stink, that offensive, pungent smell can be really difficult to remove—even after washing smelly shoes in a washing machine won’t do the trick!

While many people blame their shoe odour on synthetic shoe materials or the winter months (when smelly shoes seem to be at their peak!), the true culprit is indeed the feet. Over time, foul-smelling foot odour is absorbed into socks and shoes—where it remains, regardless if the feet are clean, dry and odour-free before shoes are worn. At that point, directly treating the shoes is necessary to solve the issue.

CAUSES OF FOOT ODOUR

Feet sweat—a lot. In fact, each foot contains about 250,000 sweat glands and can produce a cup of sweat per day! While sweaty feet may lead to foot odour, sweat isn’t actually the source of the foul smell. It’s bacteria. When perspiration is trapped on the feet and unable to evaporate, the bacteria naturally present on the skin have a feast. At room temperature, bacteria can double every 20 minutes. But in an environment like shoes, which can be warm, dark and moist, bacteria can multiply at an uncontrollable level. As the bacteria feed on the sweat, acids are produced which emit the pungent, vinegar-like smell associated with foot odour. No matter the season, sweaty shoes can quickly turn into petri dishes of bacteria.

Other factors that can create foot odour, such as some disease processes and conditions which increase sweating, like hyperhidrosis. Tinea pedis or foot fungus may also be the culprit. Like bacteria, fungi also thrive in warm, moist environments and can cause an unpleasant smell.

ROOT CAUSE OF SHOE ODOUR

Smelly feet are the main cause of shoe odour, but there are additional factors that can also lead to shoe odour. Shoes and socks made of synthetic materials aren’t “breathable” and trap in sweat. Also, fungal infections (athlete’s foot) and medical conditions that cause excessive sweating, like hyperhidrosis, can make the situation worse. The results of these condition—flaky skin and more sweat—simply provide more “food” for bacteria to grow and multiply, leading to increased odour.

TREATING FOOT ODOUR

The number one defence against foot odour is keeping feet clean and dry. Thoroughly wash the feet daily. Also, choose appropriate socks and breathable shoes and, if possible, rotate closed-toe shoes, such as gym shoes and work boots, so you’re not wearing the same pair every day. Avoid walking barefoot in moist, public areas where feet can pick up dirt and fungal infections which can also increase odour-causing bacteria.
 
When sweaty feet are impossible to avoid, foot treatments can help. However, avoid foot deodorant sprays that only mask the odour with artificial fragrances without addressing the odour-causing bacteria. Instead of covering up the odour, you need a formula that kills the bacteria that releases the odour.

TREATING SHOE ODOR

The first line of defence against shoe odour is preventing the feet from smelling in the first place. First, choose footwear made of natural materials, such as leather, and moisture wicking fabrics to allow excess moisture to evaporate. Then keep footwear bacteria-free at all times by always keeping your feet as clean and dry as possible. Also, allowing shoes to dry out completely after use is very important.

FOOTLOGIX SOLUTION

Footlogix offers two ways for you to combat shoe odour. Recommended for athletes, people who wear enclosed, non-breathable shoes, or anyone that desires fresh, well-groomed feet, Footlogix® Foot Fresh and Footlogix® Shoe Fresh both contain Tea Tree Oil, which acts as a disinfectant to eliminate bad bacteria and neutralise foot odour. Each easy-to-use treatment features a hygienic dispenser and sensible grip that makes for a controlled and safe application.
 
Use Footlogix® Foot Fresh to prevent smelly feet that lead to shoe odour. Footlogix® Foot Fresh also contains menthol which cools the skin and leaves a refreshing scent. Just apply to clean, dry feet 1-2 times per day and allow to dry 3-4 seconds before putting on socks or shoes.
 
Footlogix® Shoe Fresh can be applied daily, or as needed, to smelly shoes. Just spray inside shoes and allow to dry for 10 minutes before wearing. Footlogix® Shoe Fresh can also be used to remove odour from gym bags, yoga mats, sports equipment and more!
 
With regular use, Footlogix® Foot Fresh and Footlogix® Shoe Fresh will keep your feet fresh and odour-free in any season!