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How To Stop Shoes From Rubbing Achilles

How To Stop Shoes From Rubbing Achilles

How To Stop Shoes From Rubbing Achilles

So you got yourself a new pair of shoes that fit just fine. You even had professionals at the store to help measure your feet to increase your odds. However, after wearing them, you realize they are causing you torment, rankles despondency, and the development of blisters. And now you’re wondering, how do I stop my shoes from rubbing Achilles.

Well, the answer here can be attributed to a number of reasons. This includes some biological functions that you can never take over or simply manufactures fault. Still, we can’t just rule out. Maybe you’re too excited on the day of purchase that you ended up choosing a smaller size.

That said, not all is lost. In this post, we shall discuss some of the hacks on stopping our shoes from rubbing your Achilles. Read on.

Make sure the Shoes Fit.

One of the ideal ways to stop your shoes from scouring Achilles tendons is to check whether they fit properly. Nothing causes rankle faster than ill-fitting shoes. Both oversize and undersize shoes are equally harmful. Too tight shoes will cause less friction during movements. However, the back of the shoe can rub against the heel, causing blisters.

On the other hand, if the shoes are a bit too big, your heel will constantly be popping in and out as you walk, which will easily cause friction at the back of the heel.

Using Insoles or Heel Grips

Shoes that are too big will cause friction due to the excess movement of the feet inside them. Quality inserts and heel grips can be helpful in stopping the shoes from rubbing the back of your heel.

You can also use them to add a snug to your footwear. Insoles elevate your feet slightly, providing a tight fit. This helps to reduce the friction between your skin and the back of the shoes that leads to blistering.

Heel grips, on the other hand, helps to hold your feet in place. Gel made grips, in particular, will cushion your heels and protect them from chaffing.

Moleskin for Shoes

This is a sticky cotton fabric that you can stick to the shoes or your skin. You will just need to cut a large enough moleskin for the area you want to cover. Cut the moleskin into the appropriate shape, strip off the backing of the moleskin, and stick it on a clean heel.

Ideally, you can stick the moleskin on your skin.  Cut enough moleskin and stick it on your clean heel. Note that moleskin will work best on clean surfaces, whether shoe or skin. It won’t last on dirty surfaces.

Anti-Frictions Sticks/Balm

These are products basically designed to shield your Achilles from the back of your shoes. They reduce friction by lubricating your feet. However, if the shoes are way too tight, anti-friction sticks will wipe out; thus, you will have to re-apply. These products are easy to get online or in a local drugstore. Consider the one that’s specially made for feet.

Antiperspirant

It may sound counter-intuitive, but you might want to apply the same deodorant you use on your armpits for the betterment of your shoes. The thing is, just like armpits, feet tend to sweat.

The resultant moisture can trigger blisters from shoes that rub. Antiperspirant can help keep your feet dry, which in turn decreases the instances of blisters. We recommend that you use powdery antiperspirant as opposed to a gel. The gel is sticky and might irritate.

Also Read: How To Stop Shoe Heels From Wearing Down

Soften the Heels of your Shoes

New shoes will generally come with a stiff back that’s likely to rub your heels and ankles, no matter how well they fit. They only require a good amount of wear to break in properly. One way to stop shoes from rubbing Achilles is to invest in a leather conditioner or spray specially designed to soften footwear without leaving stains.

Apply the conditioner generously on the area you want to soften and leave the shoes overnight. The only gripe is that the area where the conditioner was applied may change color. As such, this method is largely suitable for leather and suede shoes.

Another method to soften the heels of the shoes is by using soap. Rub the inside of the heel with soap and soothe it before wearing the shoes. Your shoes will get more comfortable after several applications.

Stretching Your Shoes

If the shoes are too snug, the back will rub your ankle painfully and even cause blisters. One way to get around this is by stretching them. The first method to stretch your shoes is using a dryer to warm them all around.

Wear the shoes with thick socks and walk around until they cool off. The shoes will mold and get accustomed to your feet as they cool off. You can repeat the process until you’re satisfied that the shoes are comfortable. You can also take them to a cobbler for stretching if they are way too small.

Hair Drier

This is not the most common method to stop shoes from rubbing Achilles, but it is highly effective. As you probably know, heating an object makes it increase in size. The same case applies to shoes. Hairdryers are usually useful for leather-based shoes.

First, you’ll need to put on some socks. Then wear your shoes and stretch your toes as much as you can. After stretching, use a hairdryer to warm up the shoes from all sides. Let the leather cool down before removing the shoes. Try walking around with the shoes to make them soft and comfortable. Note that you might want to repeat the process until you achieve the desired outcome.

The Bottom Line

Rubbing Achilles can be agonizing. They can drastically lower your productivity, especially if you will have to walk or stand for long. Thankfully, you can avoid and prevent blisters by using the above hacks. This will help to make sure you’re wearing all-around comfortable shoes.