How Do You Get Athlete’s Foot? Causes, Symptoms and How to Prevent It
Athlete’s foot is one of the most common foot infections, and despite its name, you don’t need to be an athlete to get it.
Whether you regularly visit swimming pools, enjoy walking barefoot at the beach, or simply spend long hours wearing shoes, athlete’s foot can affect anyone.
The good news is that it’s usually easy to treat and there are simple steps you can take to reduce your chances of getting it.
What is athlete’s foot?
Athlete’s foot is a common fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet, especially between the toes. It is caused by fungi called dermatophytes, which thrive in warm, damp environments.
The infection often starts between the toes but can spread to other areas of the foot if left untreated.
Common signs of athlete’s foot include:
- Itchy skin between the toes
- Redness or irritation
- Dry, cracked or peeling skin
- A burning sensation
- Blisters or sore patches
- Unpleasant foot odour
While athlete’s foot can be uncomfortable, it can often be managed with proper antifungal treatments.
How do you get athlete’s foot?
Athlete’s foot spreads through contact with fungal spores. These spores can survive in warm, damp places, making certain environments more likely to spread infection.
1. Walking barefoot in communal areas
One of the most common ways people pick up athlete’s foot is by walking barefoot in shared wet areas, which creates the perfect conditions for fungi to grow. Areas include:
- Swimming pool changing rooms
- Public showers
- Leisure centres
- Hotel bathrooms
If someone with athlete’s foot walks barefoot, fungal spores can be left behind on the floor. When another person walks over the same area, the spores can transfer onto their feet.
This is why wearing protective footwear, such as swim socks or pool shoes, can be a simple way to reduce direct contact with contaminated surfaces.
2. Keeping your feet damp for too long
Fungi love moisture.
Feet naturally sweat throughout the day, and when moisture becomes trapped inside socks or shoes, it creates an environment where fungi can multiply.
You may be more likely to develop athlete’s foot if you:
- Wear the same shoes every day without letting them dry
- Stay in damp socks after swimming
- Wear tight, non-breathable footwear
- Do not dry your feet properly after washing
A simple habit like drying carefully between your toes after a shower or swim can make a big difference.
3. Sharing towels, socks or footwear
Athlete’s foot can spread through contaminated personal items.
Sharing:
- Towels
- Socks
- Shoes
- Slippers
with someone who has an infection can increase your risk of catching it.
It is always best to avoid sharing footwear, especially in households where one person has symptoms.
4. Wearing wet swimwear and footwear for too long
For swimmers and beachgoers, spending time in wet conditions is part of the fun — but staying damp for long periods can increase the risk of fungal infections.
This is particularly important during colder UK months when feet often stay covered for longer periods after outdoor swims.
Can swimming pools cause athlete’s foot?
Swimming pools themselves are not usually the direct cause of athlete’s foot.
The risk mainly comes from walking barefoot around the pool area, changing rooms and communal showers.
The warm, wet surfaces around swimming facilities can allow fungal spores to survive, which is why many swimmers choose to wear protective footwear when moving around pool areas.
How can you prevent athlete’s foot?
The easiest way to prevent athlete’s foot is to keep your feet clean, dry and protected.
Here are some simple tips:
Dry your feet properly
After swimming, showering or bathing, make sure you dry your feet completely, especially between your toes.
Wear suitable footwear in communal areas
Avoid walking barefoot in public changing rooms, showers and poolside areas. Wearing swim socks or pool footwear can provide a barrier between your feet and shared surfaces.
Change socks regularly
Fresh socks help reduce moisture build-up. Breathable materials can also help keep feet drier throughout the day.
Let your shoes dry
Avoid wearing the same pair of shoes every day if possible. Giving footwear time to dry can help prevent fungal growth.
Avoid sharing personal items
Keep towels, socks and footwear personal to reduce the chance of spreading infection.
How do you treat athlete’s foot?
Most cases of athlete’s foot can be treated with antifungal creams, sprays or powders.
Treatment usually involves:
- Applying antifungal medication as directed
- Keeping feet clean and dry
- Changing socks regularly
If symptoms do not improve after treatment, spread to other areas, or become painful, it is best to speak to a pharmacist or GP for advice.