Let’s talk summer. You’ve got the cute swimsuit, a wide-brim hat that says “I brunch,” and maybe even a beach read you’ll pretend to start before getting distracted by people-watching. But if you wear an AFO or deal with foot drop, just getting to your chair can feel like navigating an obstacle course made of hot sand, slick pool decks, and invisible steps into the water.
Trust me, I’ve been there—trying to look effortless while silently praying I don’t eat it in front of a crowd of 20-somethings doing TikTok dances in their towel wraps. 😅
But here’s the deal: having foot drop doesn’t mean summer fun is off-limits. It just means we do it with a little extra strategy—and a lot more style. So whether you’re beach-bound, poolside, or just kiddie-pool-adjacent, here are my favorite innovative, AFO-friendly pool and beach hacks that’ll help you dip without the drama.
Let’s be honest: nobody wants to ruin their everyday AFOs with chlorine, sand, or saltwater. That’s why I always recommend grabbing a backup AFO—one you won’t cry over if it gets sandy or soaked.
I keep a pair of inexpensive AFOs from Amazon in my beach bag just for water activities. They’re not as comfortable or supportive as my usual ones, but they do the trick for casual splashing and wading.
Pro Tip: Choose one that dries quickly and has minimal metal parts, unless you’re trying to create a rusted beach sculpture with your leg. 😂You can check out the most highly rated AFOs on Amazon below:
Flimsy flip-flops and sandy slides? Not for us, thanks. Look for water shoes that are:
- Wide enough for braces
- Have removable insoles (to fit your AFO inside or give more room)
- Non-slip soles (because pool decks are like banana peels in disguise)
- Easy to pull on (bonus if you have hand dexterity challenges)
There are actually several cute and functional options now—no more settling for “grandpa goes to water aerobics” styles. I’ve rounded up my faves below:
If your balance isn’t exactly Baywatch-ready on slippery pavement or shifting sand, don’t just stand there pretending you’re totally fine—grab a seat, queen. Choose a lightweight, low-profile folding chair with arms (trust me, your knees will thank you when it’s time to get up without needing a rescue squad). Bonus points if it has a cupholder or SPF pouch built in.
Even better? This one’s the best because it’s high quality, adjustable, and comes with backpack straps, so you can strut hands-free while navigating sand like the beach boss you are.
Not all pools and beaches are created equal. Before heading out:
- Call ahead to ask about non-slip surfaces, ramps, and zero-entry pools
- Check if beach mats or walkways are available
- See if there are shaded areas (because heat + brace = sweaty chaos)
Some public beaches even have beach wheelchairs you can borrow, which are amazing if walking on sand is too much.
Now, if you’re heading to a pool (especially one without a ramp or lift), channel your inner VIP and claim a chair in the front row closest to the shallow end or entry point. This gives you the perfect setup to casually lay a towel down for your knees and use the pool chair for leverage while scooting into the water on your terms—no awkward wobbling or standing required. It’s not a production, it’s a plan.
And if you’re skipping the chair altogether? A waterproof walking stick is a sleek backup for staying balanced without sacrificing your style. Your water day, your way.
If you’re trying to keep your AFOs under wraps and still look cute, maxi dresses and pull-on jumpsuits are the move. They’re one and done wonders that not only make getting dressed easier (no zippers, no drama), but also offer stylish coverage without screaming “adaptive.”
Look for pull-on style jumpsuits and maxi dresses that can double as cover-ups and won’t bunch or tangle with your leg braces. I shared a bunch of my favorite easy-on, easy-off outfits in this recent post on Summer Afo and disability-friendly fashion.
Pro tip: Toss a large, foldable waterproof tote into your beach bag to stash your AFOs if you decide to go barefoot for a bit.
Apply sunscreen before you put your brace on. Sounds obvious, but raise your hand if you’ve ever had to awkwardly try to reach under an AFO to get that one patch of skin. Yep, me too.
Also—some of us with neuropathy don’t always feel sunburn coming on until it’s too late. Don’t mess around. Spray it. Stick it. Reapply it. Repeat. Here’s my favorite sunblock (not cheap but worth it). It has an easy hold lever, smells Aaamazing, and gives you a sparkly but natural glow.
Final Word: Don’t Sit Summer Out
You deserve to feel confident, safe, and stylish at the pool or beach—brace or no brace. Yes, it takes a little extra prep, but it’s 100% doable. And if you trip? Meh. Laugh it off, adjust your crown, and keep sparkling.
Now go make waves, not wipeouts. 🌊🦿☀️
Xo
Lainie
I found that using a cane and wearing water shoes work best for me in the sand. I take my time.
This summer I’m going to purchase a beach chair that sits a little higher (17 in seat height). They also come with the backpack straps. The low ones are just impossible to get out of lol
That’s super smart! They also make ones that you can roll on the sand. I love that you are trying so many things to enjoy the beach.
Hello my AFO people! I have a quick question. I wear an AFO for foot drop. :(. I need to wear long socks with my brace so it’s comfortable. What do you do in the summer? I don’t want to wear long socks in the summer. Help Please!
Hi Kirsten,
Theres a post on the website’s homepage called “AFO hacks”. You could also use the search engine at the top right of the page to find it. But the short answer is, there is no metal touching my skin as the entire brace is lined (by my orthotist) with a soft moleskin like material. Please reach out to me via email (info@trend-able.com) if you have questions after reading it. Best, Lainie
Thank you for this very timely article