Top pick: OOFOS OOriginal Recovery Sandal—best for athlete’s foot relief and recovery.
Picture this: you just finished a long gym session or a swim practice and your feet are itchy, red, or peeling from athlete’s foot. You want sandals that dry fast, protect your skin, reduce friction, and let antifungal treatments work — not trap moisture or make the infection worse. I’ve tested a wide range of sandals, slides, sprays, and foot-care aids to find gear that helps manage symptoms, speeds recovery, and keeps you comfortable during healing. Below I share the best sandals for athletes foot, what worked in real life, and who should buy which option.
Dr. Scholl’s Odor-X Powder Spray
I keep a can of Dr. Scholl’s ODOR-X powder spray in my gym bag because it works fast. The medicated spray dries quickly, so it helps reduce moisture between toes and on the sole — the places athlete’s foot loves. In use, I found the spray eased itching and burning within a day of regular application, while the deodorizing effect helped my sandals stay fresh after sweaty sessions.
The formula is designed to both treat and help prevent recurrence when used as directed. For me, using the spray after showering and before slipping into sandals made the most difference. It pairs well with breathable sandals and gives me more confidence wearing open footwear while my skin heals.
Pros:
- Fast-drying formula reduces moisture where fungus grows
- Relieves itching and burning quickly with regular use
- Prevents odors so sandals stay fresher between washes
- Easy to apply — great for quick post-workout use
- Compact can fits in a gym bag or travel kit
Cons:
- Spray can be scented, which some sensitive users dislike
- Not a substitute for prescription antifungal in severe cases
My Recommendation
This spray is ideal for athletes and gym-goers who need quick control of moisture and odor while using the best sandals for athletes foot. I recommend it as a daily companion to open, breathable sandals to keep fungus from worsening. If you wear sandals after showers or pool sessions, a medicated spray like this will speed comfort and make healing easier.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Gym-goers | Quick spray on feet after shower or workout |
| Travelers | Compact, easy to pack and use on the go |
| Preventative care | Helps reduce recurrence when paired with sandals |
adidas adissage Massage Sandal
The adidas adissage slide is a classic for athletes who want quick on-and-off footwear. Its molded footbed with massaging nubs helps keep circulation moving after long workouts. I found that worn with a quick-dry spray or after using antifungal wipes, the open-toe design reduces trapped moisture compared to closed shoes.
The slide is lightweight and easy to rinse, which I liked after pool workouts. It’s not an active antifungal product, but when used with preventive care, the adissage is one of the best sandals for athletes foot because it dries fast and reduces friction on irritated skin.
Pros:
- Open design improves airflow and speeds drying
- Textured footbed promotes circulation and comfort
- Durable and easy to rinse after pool or gym use
- Affordable and widely available in many sizes
- Slip-on convenience for quick shower or locker-room wear
Cons:
- Massage nubs may irritate very sore skin
- Minimal arch support for longer wear
My Recommendation
I recommend the adidas adissage as a practical, budget-friendly option when you need breathable, quick-dry sandals that pair well with antifungal sprays or wipes. If you’re recovering from athlete’s foot and need open footwear for showers or pool areas, these slides are a solid choice among the best sandals for athletes foot. They balance price and function for regular use.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Pool users | Easy to rinse and quick to dry |
| Locker-room wear | Slip-on for hygiene and protection |
| Budget shoppers | Low cost without major tradeoffs |
OOFOS OOriginal Recovery Sandal
I picked OOFOS OOriginal because recovery sandals matter when your feet are sore and recovering from infection. The foam cushions impact and reduces pressure on sensitive areas. I noticed less rubbing and irritation compared to flat, hard slides — that comfort helped me keep antifungal creams on longer without pain when walking at home or around the pool.
The OOfoam technology absorbs shock and keeps feet slightly elevated, which helps maintain airflow underneath. For anyone battling athlete’s foot, the OOFOS design reduces friction and sweating. I found them to be among the best sandals for athletes foot for people who need cushioning and support during healing.
Pros:
- Superior cushioning reduces pressure on tender spots
- Closed-cell foam dries reasonably fast and resists odor
- Reduced arch and heel strain promotes recovery
- Lightweight and stable for casual wear
- Durable — holds shape after repeated use and washing
Cons:
- Higher price point than basic slides
- Not as ventilated as minimal strap sandals
My Recommendation
The OOFOS OOriginal is best for people who want cushioning and comfort while healing from athlete’s foot. I recommend it if friction and impact make your symptoms worse. Pair these with antifungal wipes or sprays for a strong combo; they rank high among the best sandals for athletes foot when comfort and protective cushioning matter most.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Recovery days | Shock-absorbing foam eases pressure on sore skin |
| People with pain | Cushioned support reduces rubbing and pain |
| Daily comfort | Durable and comfortable for home wear |
ONCAI Orthotic Adjustable Sandal
The ONCAI orthotic sandal blends arch support with adjustable straps. I appreciated the open toe and roomy fit that let my feet breathe during active days. The soft footbed offers targeted arch support, which helps reduce friction on the midfoot and keep the skin less irritated when athlete’s foot is flaring.
The adjustable fastenings let you loosen straps around swollen or tender areas. I used these when I needed better support after long walks but still wanted breathable footwear. They’re practical as some of the best sandals for athletes foot if you need structure and adjustability for sensitive feet.
Pros:
- Adjustable straps allow a secure, custom fit
- Orthotic footbed supports arch and heel alignment
- Open-toe design promotes airflow and drying
- Soft materials reduce friction on sensitive skin
- Good for people who need both support and breathability
Cons:
- Sizing can be slightly inconsistent across models
- Bulkier than minimalist slides
My Recommendation
I recommend ONCAI sandals for people who need arch support while recovering from athlete’s foot. I found their adjustability useful when toes or instep were sensitive. For active users who prefer structured support without trapping moisture, they rank among the best sandals for athletes foot thanks to breathability and fit control.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Support seekers | Orthotic footbed for arch and heel relief |
| Swollen feet | Adjustable straps allow roomy fit |
| Active walkers | Stable support for longer wear |
Body Glide Foot Glide Anti-Blister
Body Glide Foot Glide is not a sandal, but it’s an essential tool when you choose sandals for athlete’s foot. It creates a thin protective layer that stops rubbing between shoes and skin. I used it on hot spots and the inside edges of my toes; it cut blistering and reduced friction so antifungal creams stayed put and worked better.
This balm is great before long walks or when sandals rub. It’s easy to apply, doesn’t wash off quickly, and helped me avoid painful blisters while letting my feet breathe. When paired with breathable sandals, it forms a practical system for healing and prevention.
Pros:
- Prevents blisters and reduces friction in sandals
- Long-lasting formula that stands up to sweat
- Easy to apply to toes, heels, and arches
- Works well under tape or bandaging if needed
- Portable and simple for travel or sports
Cons:
- Not an antifungal — must be paired with antifungal care
- Some users prefer unscented versions
My Recommendation
Use Body Glide Foot Glide to protect tender areas when wearing the best sandals for athletes foot. I recommend it for anyone who develops blisters from friction while recovering. It’s a low-cost way to keep skin intact and let antifungal treatments work without added irritation.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Blister prevention | Reduces rubbing that causes open skin |
| Long walks | Durable protection against sweat and friction |
| Active sports | Helps keep feet protected under sandals |
Scurtain Mesh Water Socks
Scurtain mesh water socks are a hybrid option I used around pools and on cruises. They protect the soles from rough surfaces and reduce direct contact with communal floors, where athlete’s foot spreads. The mesh design dries quickly and is washable, which makes them hygienic for repeated use.
They act like a light barrier while allowing airflow around toes. In my testing, they reduced direct skin contact with wet flooring and helped keep antifungal wipes and sprays from being washed away right after application. These are practical when you want foot protection but still need breathability.
Pros:
- Lightweight protection against communal floors
- Fast-drying mesh keeps skin from staying wet
- Washable and reusable for travel or pool use
- Low profile so they fit in sandals or water shoes
- Comfortable for barefoot-style activities
Cons:
- Less supportive than structured sandals
- May wear thin with heavy, abrasive use
My Recommendation
I recommend Scurtain mesh water socks when exposure to public wet areas increases risk of athlete’s foot. I used them with antifungal wipes for added protection; they are some of the best sandals for athletes foot when you need a barrier that still breathes. Use them on pool decks, in showers, or on vacation.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Pool and shower areas | Protects from communal wet floors |
| Travelers | Packable, washable, and light |
| Minimalists | Low-profile protection with airflow |
pHeet Foot Wipes Antifungal Pack
pHeet foot wipes are an antimicrobial wipe I turned to for targeted cleaning and prevention. They are pre-moistened, easy to use after exercise, and help remove sweat, salt, and bacteria that can make athlete’s foot worse. I used them after pool sessions and before slipping into breathable sandals to ensure feet were clean and dry.
The wipes include antifungal and antibacterial ingredients that help slow fungal growth between applications. I liked having a pack on hand for travel or workouts where showers were shared. Paired with the right sandals, these wipes form a compact and effective hygiene routine.
Pros:
- Pre-moistened and ready for fast cleansing
- Antifungal and antibacterial action helps prevent spread
- Convenient for gym bags, travel, and pool use
- Helps dry and clean skin before using sandals
- Soft wipes are gentle on irritated skin
Cons:
- Temporary — must be used regularly for best effect
- Not a complete treatment for deep infections
My Recommendation
pHeet wipes are perfect for quick, on-the-go cleansing when wearing the best sandals for athletes foot. I recommend them for anyone who needs instant foot hygiene after workouts or pool time. Use them before applying topical antifungal or stepping into breathable sandals to help stop reinfection.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| On-the-go cleansing | Pre-moistened wipes for fast cleaning |
| Pool-goers | Removes salt, sweat, and bacteria |
| Hygiene kits | Compact and travel-friendly |
FAQs Of best sandals for athletes foot
Can sandals help treat athlete’s foot?
Sandals alone don’t cure athlete’s foot. But breathable, quick-dry sandals reduce moisture and friction and help topical antifungal treatments work better. I always pair sandals with antifungal products for best results.
Which sandal types are best for preventing recurrence?
Open, ventilated designs and materials that dry quickly are best. Look for slides, adjustable sandals, or mesh water socks that allow airflow and are easy to clean. I favored sandals that let me rinse and dry them fast.
Should I use antifungal sprays or wipes with sandals?
Yes. Using sprays or antifungal wipes before and after wearing sandals lowers fungus load and speeds healing. I used wipes post-swim and a medicated spray for daily prevention during recovery.
Are recovery sandals like OOFOS good for athlete’s foot?
Yes — if you need cushioning and reduced friction. Recovery sandals reduce pressure and rubbing, which helps tender skin heal. I recommend them when pain or rubbing worsens symptoms.
How often should I replace sandals to avoid reinfection?
Replace or deep-clean sandals every few months if you use them daily in wet environments. Wash or disinfect footbeds regularly. I recommend cleaning after pool or gym use and replacing worn footbeds that trap moisture.
Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?
For fast relief and prevention, I favor OOFOS OOriginal paired with pHeet wipes and Dr. Scholl’s spray — the combo keeps feet dry, clean, and cushioned. These are my top picks among the best sandals for athletes foot because they reduce friction and help treatments work.
If you want budget-friendly protection, adidas adissage or Scurtain water socks work well for pool and locker-room use. Overall, choose sandals that breathe, dry fast, and match your recovery needs.
Madison Clark is a footwear expert and the voice behind MyStyleGrid.com. She specializes in honest shoe reviews, style tips, and practical guides to help readers find the perfect pair for any occasion. With years of experience in blogging and content creation, Madison makes footwear knowledge simple, stylish, and easy to follow.
