How to Combine Footwear and Floor Mats for Ultimate Bartending Comfort
Bartending can entail long hours behind the stick, whether it’s during the heat of summer or under the air-conditioned establishments.
Standing and walking into this little space can take quite a bit of work, and your feet often have to pay the price. Thankfully, foot practices, footwear options and floor mats can make the experience so much more comfortable.
Practice Good Foot Hygiene
Give your feet love by washing them thoroughly, both before a shift and after. Remember to dry every single nook and cranny to avoid infections. Occasionally, you should trim your toenails, as working behind the bar is simply harder with an ingrown. You can lessen your chances of getting those by cutting straight across when trimming.
Have Foot Exercises Ready
Another regular practice you can use is foot exercises. Toe curls, the Achilles stretch, and so many other movements can do wonders for the strength and flexibility of your feet. Walking during your off days can also make your muscles more resilient. You can also make a mental note to stretch them after your shift to relieve tension.
Consider Your Walking Style
People with flat feet need more care and perceptiveness when walking. Their soles bear the full brunt of your steps, sending shocks up the spine and making you more susceptible to back pain. Meanwhile, those with a natural arch need to practice walking a little more relaxed, as a rigid style can be harder on the joints.
Pick the Right Shoes
Footwear is the biggest game-changer to your comfort levels. Some really like using combat boots or clogs, but even sneakers can do the trick if you pick the one that suits your foot shape. Remember to pick out a waterproof pair in case of any spillage while bartending. Stains would also be less apparent on darker-colored ones.
Use Compression Socks
Moving to the inside of your shoes, consider wearing compression socks for your shift. These offer a snug fit that can minimize the pressure on your feet and lower the risk of swelling. Others also find it to be a great tool when they have existing foot pain.
Consider Insoles
Remember how flat feet tend to suffer because they don’t have an arch? Orthotic insoles can mimic the support of a natural one, ensuring you’re more comfortable on your feet. About 50% of patients suffering from foot pain utilize these as well, so they’re a tried-and-true solution!
Prepare Rubber Bar Mats
One hidden secret that makes mixology more comfortable is good floor mats. A rubber bar mat is the most reliable since it’s meant to be slip-resistant. They are also durable against drink spills.
Keep the Coverings Clean
To get the most out of your floor mat, make sure they are as clean as a whistle. You can usually take them out after your shift and machine wash them with water and a mild detergent. Leave it to airdry and bring it back the next shift.
Bonus: Unwind on Your Breaks
Take your breaks and have a seat. You can go the extra mile by adding a footrest in the break area. Relaxing for even just a couple of minutes should make you good to go for another few hours.
Take Care of Your Feet
Look, a happy bartender is simply more exceptional when creating different cocktails and entertaining customers. Invest in caring for your feet, and you’ll make work so much easier, no matter how demanding the shift is.
The Balanced Bartender with Mia Barnes
Crafting the perfect cocktail is an art, but true mastery lies in balance—not just of flavors, but of creativity, precision, and passion. In a profession where long hours and high-energy are the norm, maintaining balance both behind the bar and in life is essential. The Balanced Bartender will help guide bartenders toward a healthier, more balanced lifestyle. Stay in tune with your mind, body, and spirit.
The post How to Combine Footwear and Floor Mats for Ultimate Bartending Comfort appeared first on Chilled Magazine.