Do you know what's worse than a blister on your heel? The constant annoyance and discomfort of heel slippage. Even your favorite pair of shoes can betray you with this all-too-common problem, leading to discomfort and blister issues and impacting your work or athletic performance. You've might have tried every trick in the book, from adjusting laces to wearing different socks, but nothing seems to work.
Well, it’s time to put these worries to rest because we've got you covered! In this blog, we will uncover the common causes of the infamous heel slides and provide practical tips and tricks to help you stop sliding around in your shoes once and for all.
Ready? Let’s dive in.
Why Is My Shoe Slipping at the Heel? 5 Most Common Reasons Behind Heel Slippage
Ever felt like you're doing the hokey pokey with your shoes on? You know, where you put your left foot in, and then your heel slips out, making you shake it all about? If so, you're not alone. Heel slippage is a common issue many people face, and it can make even the most stylish or trustworthy pair of shoes feel like a complete disaster.
But before you start blaming your feet for not cooperating, it's important to understand that there are multiple potential culprits behind this pesky problem. So, if you're frustrated by constantly wondering: “Why is my shoe slipping at the heel?" let's dive into the five most common causes of heel slippage before we get into figuring out how to stop them from slipping and sliding in each case.
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Shoe Fit
It's no secret that a proper shoe fit is crucial for comfortable and pain-free wear. Thus, an ill-fitting pair of shoes is one of the leading reasons for sliding feet. If your shoes are too big, your heel can slide around inside them, leading to blisters, calluses, or worse – falls and ankle injuries. Neglecting to push your foot heel all the way back before lacing up is also a recipe for heel slippage.
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Foot Shape
Ankle anatomy and foot shape play a significant role in shoe fit. People with flat feet or narrow feet are more prone to sliding feet than those with wider feet – it's foot anatomy 101. Even with the right shoe size, sometimes your foot shape won't perfectly match your shoes, which can result in your heel slipping, especially during high-intensity movements like running or lifting. It's like trying to fit a square peg into a round hole – it just doesn't quite work.
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Type of Shoes
Different types of women’s and men’s shoes can cause sliding feet and heels. Cheaper shoes may come with a tempting price tag but often come with more fit issues, while quality boots, work, or running shoes tend to fit better. So, if you want to avoid feeling like you're walking on a slip 'n slide, it might be worth splurging on shoes that will keep your feet snug and secure.
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Excess Space
Yes, sometimes, there can be too much of a good thing – read comfort. You don't want your shoes strangling your feet all day long, but extra space inside the shoe can cause heel slippage as it won't grip your foot heel properly. Although you might have gotten your shoe sized correctly, dress shoes and leather shoes can also stretch over time, creating more space for the foot to move around.
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Foot Conditions
If you have plantar fasciitis, a cavus foot, or any other foot condition, you might be all too familiar with the feeling of heel slides, as these can cause slippage.
No More Sliding Around: Expert Tips & Tricks on How to Stop Heel Slippage
There's nothing worse than your heel slipping out of your shoes, whether it's a pair of boots, runner sneakers, or everyday footwear. Not only is it super annoying, but those heel slides can even lead to blisters, ankle injuries, or nasty falls, especially in scenarios that require full feet support, such as running, hiking, or doing some heavy lifting at the workplace.
But fear not because we're here to help you keep those heels in place, avoid any dangerous mishaps, and ensure you walk confidently and securely. So, how do you fix a slipping heel? Here are some expert tips and tricks to help you get a better heel grip and tackle these shoe woes head-on, once and for all.
Find the Right Fit
Ever heard of "prevention is the best medicine"? Well, shoe shopping is no exception. The crucial factor in preventing the infamous heel slides is finding the right fit for your foot size and foot anatomy. While it may be tempting to settle for a cheaper pair of shoes or grab your favorite pair even if it's not the right size, this can lead to a world of hurt (and heel slips) in the long run.
So, the next time you head out for a shoe shopping spree, make sure you buy the true size and shape for your feet. Take the time to measure your feet properly, try on multiple sizes and models to ensure a snug and secure grip, and don't hesitate to ask the staff for advice on shoe fit.
If the damage is already done, and you're stuck with ill-fitting shoes but are not ready to give up on them just yet, keep this in mind when it’s time to replace your work shoes and keep reading to find out how you might be able to improve shoe grip.
Try Out the Rabbit Hole Method
Have you gone down the rabbit hole of trying to find the perfect solution to your shoe slippage problems? Look no further than the Rabbit Hole Method. No, we're not suggesting you follow a white rabbit into Wonderland, but rather create a simple loop with your laces.
This technique involves creating a loop with your laces and feeding the opposite lace through it, creating a knot that pulls the heel down and back and locks it in. This lacing method helps prevent slippage and keeps your foot in place.
Get Lace Anchors or Lace Locks
Tired of constantly readjusting your laces to keep your shoes from slipping? Maybe it's time to upgrade your laces with lace anchors or lace locks. These small yet mighty devices attach to your shoelaces to provide a secure fit, eliminating the need for constant adjustments.
Plus, they help prevent uncomfortable lace pressure on the top of your foot (this will definitely put a smile on your face if you have a very high arch!) and keep your heel locked in place, ensuring a snuggly fit all day long. Give it a try!
Use Double-Sided Tape
Applying double-sided tape to the heel of your shoe is a simple solution that can help prevent slippage. It provides the extra friction to keep your foot in place, especially when dealing with sweaty feet. Easy-peasy! Although not the ideal solution in the long run, it makes for a great temporary quick heel slip fix.
Give Pads, Inserts and Insoles a Go
A gel insert, aftermarket insole, or cushion pad can provide the necessary support and extra padding for your heel, and also take up some of the extra space in your shoe. They are especially handy for people with foot conditions like plantar fasciitis. Of course, when dealing with a health issue, you should always consult with a foot doctor before making any moves on your own.
No matter how fancy an aftermarket insole or heel pads for boots claim to be, it can’t match the perfect blend of comfort and support that a well-designed shoe provides. However, it's an affordable solution, so it's still worth considering the idea of slipping in a cushy insole for some extra oomph in your step and an anti-slip heel, especially if you tend to stand or move around a lot throughout the day.
After all, who doesn't want to treat their feet to a little extra TLC?
Put on Multiple Pairs of Socks
How to fix shoes that are too big? By pulling out the classic "double sock" move. It may not be the most stylish solution, but sometimes desperate times call for desperate measures. Wearing an extra pair of socks or padded wool socks with your shoes can create extra friction and cushioning, helping your foot stay locked in place and avoid shoe slippage.
Of course, this is not the most desirable solution, especially on a hot summer day, but it's worth a shot if you're trying to salvage a pair of shoes that are just a tad too big that you don't want to go to waste.
Look for Specific Shoe Designs
If you're experiencing heel slippage in boots, look for boot designs with lace loops or lace pressure points that can help keep your foot in place. Explore different shoe manufacturers and their models to find the ideal pair of soft leather boots that won't feel too mushy, and you'll feel secure in. The same goes for your kicks and other types of shoes, such as men’s or women’s work footwear.
Walk the Walk
We all like to think we know how to walk, but the reality is that many of us are stumbling through life with an improper walking style. The good news is that if you've noticed a little extra wiggle room in your boots or sneakers, a simple adjustment to your walking technique could be the solution to preventing the pesky heel slips.
Walking on the balls of your feet causes your foot to shift forward, leaving your heel untethered and prone to slipping. To combat this, try focusing on making contact with the ground heel first. It might take a little practice, but this small adjustment can make a big difference in keeping your feet and heels secure.
Keep in mind that this method will not work for shoes that are poorly fitting or too big. But it's worth a shot before moving on to our other solutions.
Address Any Foot Pain or Injuries
Foot pain and injuries can not only be a real pain in the heel, literally, but also cause you to shift your weight or change your gait, leading to foot heel slippage. Ignoring foot problems can even lead to more serious and long-term issues, so addressing them promptly is important. Whether it's plantar fasciitis, a sprained ankle, or just general discomfort, taking care of your feet can help prevent heel slippage and keep you comfortable and pain-free.
Simple Solutions That Work: Put a Stop to Your Sole Woes
Dealing with heel slippage can be frustrating, but there are plenty of simple solutions out there that can help you find relief. Which one of these solutions will work best for your troubles, instead of the good ol’ return method you probably want to avoid? Well, it all comes down to how much you’re willing to spend, the available materials you can get your hands on, and how much your boots are acting like slippery snakes.
The key is to identify the root cause of the problem and then try out different solutions until you find one that does the trick best for you. Don't let your heel woes get in the way of your daily life. With a little creativity and persistence, you can enjoy comfortable and pain-free feet. So go ahead and take the necessary steps to make your shoes work for you!
FAQ
How Much Heel Slippage Is Normal?
A little heel slippage is normal, but excessive slippage can cause discomfort and affect your performance. It's important to find a balance that works for you.
Is Heel Slippage Normal in Boots?
Heel slippage can occur in any type of shoe, but it's more common in boots due to their design and fit. However, there are ways to prevent it.
Will Heel Slippage in Shoes Cause Blisters when Hiking?
Yes, heel slippage can increase the risk of blisters while hiking, especially if your shoes rub against your skin. Addressing heel slip issues before embarking on a long hike and knowing how hiking boots should fit is important to prevent discomfort and injury.