How to Stop Shoes Rubbing the Back of Your Heel
Save Your Ankles with Heel Grips, Blister Balm & More
Love buying new shoes but hate breaking them in? From chaffed ankles to painful blisters, we’ve all stepped into that one pair of adorable shoes that killed our feet. Put an end to shoe regret and say bye-bye to blisters with these top tips and products that stop shoes from rubbing your heels raw.
Top Products for Shoes That Rub
Why do some shoes hurt the back of my heel?
Constant friction between your shoe and the back of your heel can cause irritation that leads to painful chaffing, blisters and bleeding. Whether it’s your sneakers, flats, or a new pair of heels, what causes shoes to hurt the back of your heel could be:
- An improper fit. Shoes that are too big can make your heels slip in and out of your shoes while shoes that are too small can cut into your ankles. Knowing how to tell if your shoes fit prevents these common shoe problems.
- Materials. Some materials are not flexible enough to offer a customized fit. You might also experience rubbing from a lack of padding in the heel counter or collar of the shoe.
- Break in time. Not taking the time to break in your shoes properly can lead to instant pain from blisters and ankle chafe. Rather than tossing a pair of heels you’ve only worn once, learn how to break in shoes that rub your heel.
The 5 Best Ways to Stop Shoes from Rubbing
Foot Petals® shoe cushions help stop your shoes from rubbing against your ankles and feet. These discreet shoe cushions deliver targeted comfort where you need it most to improve your fit, relieve pain and prevent blisters in heels, sneakers, flats, sandals and more.
Stop shoes from rubbing the back of your ankle and prevent blisters from new shoes with the following products by Foot Petals:
1. Heel Grips
Foot Petals back of heel cushions are the best way to stop shoes from rubbing against your heels and causing blisters. Slim and discreet, they pad the back of your shoe to improve its fit without being noticeable. The lightweight, breathable design also prevents further irritation from sweat, keeping your feet dry and comfortable.
The perfect heel grips for high heels, flats, loafers, and other shoe styles, you can try them in soft, premium foam or reusable gel that conforms to your foot for long-lasting comfort.
2. Anti-Blister Balm
Blister preventer balm is the easiest way to prevent blisters on heels in new shoes. Portable and easy to use, it forms an invisible barrier between your skin and your shoe to reduce friction. The balm leaves zero mess with no staining, so you can use it on your thighs or underarms to prevent chaffing, too.
Need a quick fix for blisters when you’re on the go? The Foot Petals shoe emergency kit includes heel grips, anti-blister balm, and more so you never have to worry about new shoes hurting your feet again.
3. Blister Patches
If you already have blisters from shoes that cut the back of your heel, using a blister patch can help. Foot Petals blister healers are hydrocolloid patches that provide instant relief from pain and pressure while creating the perfect healing environment for existing blisters.
Clear, discreet, and waterproof, our blister bandage pack includes three unique sizes to cover all your common problem areas like your heels, toes and the sides of your feet.
4. Strap Cushions
Previously called strappy strips, Foot Petals strap cushions help reduce rubbing caused by shoe straps whether you’re wearing slingbacks or sandals. The premium foam helps keep straps from digging into your skin in tight shoes, preventing ugly marks or blisters.
Our strap cushions have a slim, trim-to-fit design for a customized fit with beveled edges to keep them from curling for long lasting wear.
5. Spot Dot Cushions
Foot Petals spot cushions are your secret defense against shoes that rub. Just place them anywhere you feel pressure or friction in your shoes for instant relief. Great for uncomfortable seams, pinch points, and awkward fits, spot cushions are slim and discreet with a lasting placement so you can set it and forget it.
Stop shoes from rubbing against your toes, ankles, heels and more with soft foam spot cushions or gel spot cushions for custom comfort in all your shoes.
Slingback shoes slipping or toes getting scrunched? Find more Tips for the Perfect Fit.
Tips for Breaking in Shoes that Rub Your Heel
Many of us have bought a pair of heels or flats and didn’t think to break them in before wearing them. What looks comfortable online or fits right in the store could become a pain after an hours-long wedding reception or a presentation at work. Here are our best tips for breaking in shoes that cut into the backs of your ankles:
- Try before you buy. Go shoe shopping at the end of the day after you’ve been on your feet. Walk up and down the aisles to check for sliding or rubbing. If you're buying shoes online, see if the retailer has a “try before you buy” option.
- Wear socks. Socks create a barrier between your skin and shoes. Thicker pairs may even help stretch the shoes overtime. For a comfy and trendy look, consider wearing socks with heels.
- Apply a blister balm. Rubbing a blister preventer balm on your heels, ankles, and anywhere you feel friction inside your shoes stops blisters from forming so you can break in your shoes faster.
- Use the freezer method. You can stretch your shoes for a better fit by filling two sandwich bags with water, placing them inside the shoes, and freezing them overnight.
- Pad your shoes. Not all shoes have proper cushioning. Fill in gaps or make your shoes more comfortable by adding discreet shoe cushions like back of heel cushions and foam shoe inserts.
Prevent Blisters & Stop Shoes from Rubbing with Foot Petals
Foot Petals shoe cushions and blister relief products protect your feet so you can wear all the shoes you love without compromise. Browse our entire selection to discover the best fixes for shoes that rub the back of your heel and more.
