Most of my patients know that I am a huge Disney fan. Pre-Covid I went to Disney at least once a year and I try to incorporate the Disney culture into my practice as much as possible. Disney is not only an important part of my life, but it is important to many others too. For those of you who are planning a trip to Disney in the near future, I want to share my Disney tips and essentials.
Best Shoes to Wear at Disney
I know I talk about shoes a lot, and honestly, it’s one of my favorite topics to talk about as a podiatrist. I mean, it’s a girl’s dream to talk about shoes all day! But in all seriousness, wearing the right shoes for the right occasion is the simplest way to prevent foot problems. Disney might be the happiest place on earth, but the same rules still apply when it comes to shoe gear. You have to wear supportive, non-flexible shoes to walk around the Disney parks. You will spend all day pounding your feet against the concrete and your feet won’t be able to take it if you are in the wrong shoes.
I highly recommend wearing either a Brooks, Asics, or New Balance during your Disney Park exploration. These shoes are all great, non-flexible options that will support your feet and prevent foot pain. Trust me. The last thing you want to do is ruin your Disney experience with aching feet.
I also strongly recommend that you have an orthotic in your tennis shoe. An orthotic will make your foot function the way it is supposed to, thus preventing foot pain or injury caused by structural problems. I would recommend either a custom orthotic or a Quadrastep to provide you with the most correction and support.
To be fitted with an orthotic and discuss which option is best for you, call the office at or schedule an appointment online.
Moisture Wicking Socks
Sweating is the body’s way of cooling you down when you get hot. Although it can be gross, it is completely natural. However, you want to prevent excess moisture while wearing your socks and tennis shoes. The excess moisture on your feet from sweating can often lead to a fungal infection called athlete’s foot. The last souvenir you want to bring back from Disney is a bad case of athlete’s foot. So how do we keep this from happening?
The first thing I would suggest is to wear moisture-wicking socks. These socks are more breathable and rather than absorb the moisture, they promote evaporation. So, if you are excessively sweating while walking around at Disney, you won’t have damp socks at the end of the day.
The next thing I would recommend is Mod Pod Fresh. This deodorizing foot spray will reduce excessive sweating and kill fungal bacteria. It also neutralizes foot odor, leaving with you a fresh and clean feeling all day. It can be used as often as needed and has a sleek package design that makes it great for traveling!
Hydrate
Sweating also means that you need to make sure you are properly hydrated. It is easy to forget to drink water when you are enchanted by Disney attractions or drinking around the world at Epcot. I always try to take a water bottle with me along with some hydration tablets. They are great for restoring electrolytes and easy to carry with you. During the summer months, I carry my Camelbak which holds 100 ounces of water. Keep in mind that you can always get a free cup of water from any concession stand.
Staying properly hydrated will prevent you from passing out at the park (talk about embarrassing!) and it will prevent cramps in your feet and legs, which will easily cut your day at the park short.
Protein Bar
Last but certainly not least is to have a snack with you. You want to have something with you that will give you energy and allow you to walk at the park all day. My favorite thing is to bring is a protein bar. They are a great source of energy (way better for you than all of the sweets you will find at Disney) and are easy to carry with you. You can shop Amazon for some of my favorite protein bars.
After a long day of walking around Disney, don’t forget iceyour feet and/or use a CBD stick to eliminate any achiness. Gotta make sure you’re ready to get up and do it all again the next day!
Well, there you have it! A list of tips and essentials from one Disney fan to another. If you have comments of suggestions for what you want tips about, be sure to follow us on Facebook or Instagram and send us a message!