Why Experts Warn Against Wearing Used Shoes

If you’re tempted to buy stylish, gently-used footwear from a thrift store or online marketplace, you’re not alone! However, there are important health and comfort risks to keep in mind before slipping on someone else’s shoes. The latest expert guidance (2025) and press releases shed light on why caution is key, especially for children and sensitive feet. Here’s a comprehensive guide with direct links for in-depth reading.

Hygiene and Health Concerns

Wearing second-hand shoes increases your risk of infectious conditions such as athlete’s foot and nail fungus. As explained in the expert article “Is Secondhand Footwear Harmful to your Health?”:

“Wearing used footwear can put you at risk of contracting diseases like athlete’s foot and nail fungus. These typically thrive in moist, warm, and dark places, just like inside your shoes.”

Fungi and bacteria left behind by the previous owner may linger deep within shoe materials, especially if the shoes were not cleaned or disinfected properly.

Alignment and Fit Problems

Each person’s feet have a unique shape, arch, and walking pattern. Shoes gradually adapt to these specifics and develop a wear pattern that matches the original owner’s gait. If you wear shoes that are worn in to someone else’s feet, it can cause:

• Poor fit and stability, especially if the sole or footbed is already deformed.

• Increased risk of blisters, corns, and foot pain due to pressure points or abnormal support.

• Negative impacts on posture and movement over time.

Faircado’s guide on pre-loved shoes warns:

“Shoes that have been worn for some time by someone else may have been shaped to fit their feet. This can lead to foot problems such as blisters, calluses, and corns. In addition, shoes that have been worn for a long time may be damaged or deformed. This can affect the way you walk and lead to pain in your feet, ankles, knees, hips, and back.”

Especially for Kids: A Big No

Children’s feet are still growing and developing. It’s highly recommended not to buy second-hand shoes for kids, unless they are soft-soled baby slippers or flip-flops. Used shoes may:

• Restrict natural foot development.

• Fail to provide needed support for healthy growth.

• Cause discomfort or walking abnormalities due to uneven wear or shape.

As outlined by specialists in the articles above, new shoes are safest for supporting children’s feet properly.

If You Must Buy Second-Hand

If you choose to buy pre-owned shoes due to sustainability or budget, follow these tips:

• Only buy shoes in excellent condition with minimal signs of wear and a still-intact insole and structure.

• Always disinfect thoroughly—remove dirt, and clean with disinfectant sprays or solutions as recommended in the full cleaning guide.

• Replace the insoles to reduce the risk of fungal or bacterial transfer.

• Try the shoes on and walk around—avoid anything that feels unstable, misshaped, or uncomfortable.

• Avoid second-hand shoes for children and seek new, well-fitted shoes for their growing feet.