My TikTok is always showing me all things NYC. A lot of NYC real estate as I debate a possible move this winter. And a whole lot of things to do in New York City. But as of late, it’s been someone going around asking New Yorkers if they wear open toed shoes in NYC or not.
You’re probably thinking, what the hell are you even talking about? Sure you can wear open toed shoes, why not? Well, I think that’s exactly why this is a trend at the moment on TikTok. The commentary and opinions that lean hard in either direction, are super entertaining to watch on TikTok.
I think many New Yorkers will probably say absolutely not. Especially if you’re riding the subway or spending all day long walking on the sidewalks of New York City. It’s always so fun to see what the response and reactions are.
Which, yes, all sidewalks will have urine, poop, trash and things left behind by the beloved unofficial mascot of NYC, the rat. So it’s not unreasonable to say, no, I’m not wearing open toed shoes in this city!
But is wearing an open-toed in NYC all that terrible?
Here’s my take on it. As someone who has spent quite a bit of time in the city, I’m mostly going to say no. And as I headed to dinner with a friend in Brooklyn and I walked several blocks in these open toed sandals, I thought, okay maybe sometimes? I suppose, it’s complicated.
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No Flip-Flops
Let’s leave the floppy flip flops at home with no support. Especially ones that have your feet slipping around that you may be rubbing up against the filthy ground. If you’re heading a block or two down the street for a pedicure, go for it.
You’ll Want Some Support
With all the walking that comes with living or exploring in NYC, you’ll definitely want support with your shoe of choice. And that can just be a bit of a challenge with an open-toed shoe. A Birkenstock may be a good choice here. But anything that’s super flat, and can’t offer support when you plan on walking 10K plus steps, is a hard no. Put on a sneaker!
If You’re Not Going Far, Go For It
Just a couple of blocks to dinner? Or grabbing your takeout on the corner? Throw on the flip-flops and hope for the best.
I headed to dinner with a friend and wanted to wear these open toed block-heel sandals. Just a few blocks of walking and to me that’s totally fine! But I know if I encountered a rat, I was risking having said rat touch my foot. It’s a risk. And there are plenty of stories I’ve heard from friends who have experienced it for themselves.
Do Whatever The Hell You Want
Let’s be honest, anything really goes in NYC. So you do you. But I’m going to personally leave the flip flops for pedicure days. And open-toed heels for dinner reservations just a few blocks down the street. And as always, hope for the best and no rat sightings.
