If you have a standing desk, you most likely don’t want to wear those ill-fitting high heels or polished loafers to work. Alternatively, you could want to work from home and not wear shoes at all. However, is utilising a height-adjustable standing desk while barefoot honestly a smart idea?
Come on, let’s find out!
Can You Benefit from Barefoot Standing?
Standing barefoot at a desk can be enjoyable, but it’s important to consider the surface. Balancing on tiles or wood may cause aches and pains, while standing on a carpet may be unsupportive and cause leg and back discomfort. Prolonged standing can cause weakness, weariness, and damage to spine tissue, potentially leading to muscular spasms.
Considerations Before Standing Barefoot at a Standing Desk:
Standing barefoot is not always bad, but it can be beneficial for prolonged periods. It can stimulate activity and standing-sitting alternation. However, avoid stubbing toes or dropping work items on them. Bare feet may not protect against elements, causing issues like athlete’s foot or plantar warts. Walking barefoot in the office is unprofessional, potentially causing dissatisfaction from colleagues and employers. Please only do this at home if you want to avoid complaints!
Why Are Standing Desk Shoes Important?
Support and comfort from comfortable shoes may avoid back discomfort and improve work conditions. Standing for lengthy periods might wear us out and cause us to stoop and slouch.
We should sit some of the day but sometimes stand. Supportive and comfy shoes help us achieve this and avoid weariness.
This only works with comfy shoes. Uncomfortable shoes may distract you from work and create discomfort for your foot, leg, and back. So, how do you choose shoes?
How to Choose Standing Desk Shoes
A shoe’s comfort is subjective and not necessarily based on health or support. Tennis shoes offer arch support but may not be suitable for professional dress. Choose shoes with support and comfort, such as sneakers or tennis shoes. Ensure shock absorption for hard flooring and arch support for standing workstations. Check shoe size for proper support.
Is An Anti-Fatigue Mat Useful?
Simple anti-fatigue mats may give comfort, support, and stability to your standing workstation. They help you stand longer without leg and core strain.
They are ideal for persons with foot and leg discomfort from standing on the floor. Due to its lack of support, standing on the carpet may also tire legs.
Many anti-fatigue mats encourage small muscle movements to promote blood flow and decrease the effects of extended standing. They’re also cosy. With or without shoes, an anti-fatigue mat works. If you are barefoot, it will provide the same support and comfort as a great tennis shoe. You get more help and perks if you already have shoes.
Additional Tips for Shoes at a Standing Desk
To maintain comfort while using a standing desk, avoid wearing shoes that mask foot and leg weariness, as standing all day is not recommended. Instead, move around, stretch, or use an under-desk elliptical or treadmill. Avoid overwearing shoes, as they may wear supports, and replace them every 6-12 months after regular usage.
Final Thoughts on Shoes at a Standing Desk
All agree that walking barefoot is preferable to wearing unsupportive or unpleasant shoes, particularly if you pair them with an anti-fatigue mat. It is important to wear supportive and comfy shoes while standing for longer periods if you are worried about the condition of your muscles. Additionally, you should periodically switch between standing and sitting throughout the day.
