Have you ever walked through airport security barefoot? Well, a company called Skindels creates a product which helps travelers keep their feet clean – even while walking barefoot.
What are Skindels?
Skindels are like very thin insoles that stick to your feet. Think of them as a second skin.
The material which the Skindels are made of is like that of a fabric Band-Aid. They feel similar and Skindelsa are basically massive Band-Aids minus the gauze in the middle.
The Skindels are meant to be worn with sockless footwear or under your socks.
Pros:
- Keep your feet clean while walking barefoot
- Low profile
- Can be worn with heels or flipflops
The Skindels are discrete even when worn with heels or flip flops. In addition to traveling, according to Skindles.com, you can also use them for going to the gym, in your hotel room or while doing yoga.
The Skindels could be potentially used as an ultra-ultra minimalist barefoot running ‘shoe’ as well. They wouldn’t provide any cushion or much protection, but they would keep your feet clean.
Cons:
- Not reusable
- Slippery
- Not waterproof
- Leaves residue on feet when removed
- Difficult to apply
- Would prefer if each individual toe was separated instead of just the big toe
While testing the Skindels out, I’ve come across quite a few issues. I’m sure as the Skindels will be updated, some of these issues will be addressed.
The Skindels were a hassle for me to apply at first. When peeling the protective covering off to reveal the adhesive side, the Skindels folded together and were difficult to get unstuck.
I usually wear Injinji toe socks, which proved to be a unique problem when I tried to wear my socks over the Skindels. Since all the toes except for the big toe are connected with the Skindels, I can’t wear them under toe socks. I’d really like for each toe to be separated not only so they can be used with toes socks but also to give your toes more mobility.
According to Skindels.com, the Skindels are meant to stay “on more than 24 hours with low intensity; 8-10 hours with moderate to high intensity”. Unfortunately, when I tried the Skindels, they started peeling a bit after about 6 hours.
I took the Skindels off right before I went to bed, and at that time I had worn the Skindels for about 5 or 6 hours. I primarily walked around my house for that time, nothing hardcore. I didn’t apply anything to my feet prior, so I was kind of surprised by the amount of residue. I had to wash my feet off with soap after peeling the Skindels off to get the residue away.
When wearing the Skindles, you have less grip than you normally would while barefoot. This could be potentially dangerous and I’d love to see Skindles make a version with more traction.
It would be cool if the Skindels were made of a clear silicone-like material. That would be discreet, since the material would be clear, and also the silicone would be reusable and waterproof. It could also give you more grip when walking barefoot because it’s rubbery.
The Verdict:
The Skindels are a good concept but I feel that they have lots of room for improvement. They keep your feet clean and can be worn with almost any kind of footwear, however they aren’t reusable which was a major drawback for me. According to the founder of the Skindels, Blake Ishmael, the company is planning on making a reusable version and a version with additional traction.
A 2 pack of Skindels costs $8, and a 4 pack costs $14.
Where to Get Skindels:
- You can find the Skindels at Skindels.com
Have any questions about the Skindels? Leave your comment below.
The Skindels were provided for this review. As always, this Skindels review contains only my honest views and opinions.