Rental shoes are not a source of tinea pedis.

Introduction: Tinea pedis is a common disease that affects up to 70% of adults during a lifetime. Most cases are caused by Trichophyton species. Worldwide, terbinafine resistance among dermatophytes is rising, which is concerning as terbinafine is the first-line treatment. Due to concerns regarding potential epidemics, this study was conducted to investigate whether rental climbing and bowling shoes are a source of societal spread.

Methods: A sampling was conducted on 103 pairs of rental climbing shoes and 102 pairs of bowling shoes across four climbing clubs and four bowling clubs, utilising a previously published swabbing technique and culturing. Positive cultures were identified by microscopy and internal transcribed spacer sequencing. Additionally, a questionnaire was completed regarding shoe material and disinfection method.

Results: No dermatophytes were detected on any of the rental shoes. All bowling clubs and one climbing club employed fungicidal cleaning methods.

Conclusion: Rental climbing and bowling shoes are unlikely to present an immediate risk for the societal transmission of dermatophytes.

Funding: The Royal Hofbundtmager Age Bang Foundation is acknowledged for funding the laboratory work (number 9622-3439).

Trial registration: The local committee of research ethics (Region Zealand, Denmark, EMN-2021-01399) waived ethical approval.