Friction is the culprit if your shoes are always rubbing against the back of your heels. Yet, as your skin can handle some friction, the prolonged pressure from the footwear brings about discomfort, damage to the skin and the injuries.

Over time, this leads to blisters and skin breaks, which can be an open door to infections or Haglund’s deformity. Also, the irritation can spread to your Achilles tendon and cause bursitis and other related problems.

Vessi shoes, known for their waterproof design and comfort, offer a great blend of functionality and style. However, even with high-quality shoes like Vessi, it's essential to ensure the right fit to prevent discomfort and friction.

To help you solve this common problem, expert podiatrists, have provided practical tips to prevent you from experiencing undue friction and discomfort at your heel.

1. When Shopping for New Shoes

If you are trying on shoes, wear the same type of socks you would wear in your shoes on a daily basis. One mistake many shoppers make is to try shoes on over thin socks that they will later wear thick socks over. This can result in a tight fit with increased rubbing at the heel and elsewhere.

Think about the time of day you shop. When possible, get new shoes later in the day because your feet swell in half a size. What feels comfortable in the morning may become stifling by afternoon. Don’t wear overly loose shoes as they can also be uncomfortable and irritating.

Most people have one foot that is slightly longer than the other, so be mindful. When you measure only a foot you might miss the best overall fit and in turn your longer foot will rub at the back of the heel. Seek shoes that fit your longest foot to keep them as comfortable and fitted as possible.

Tips for Shoe Shopping:

• Wear your daily socks.
• Shop later in the day.
• For an exact fit, measure both feet.

2. Select Appropriate Socks

Choosing the right socks is essential for avoiding blisters and discomfort during wear. Look for socks that provide adequate cushioning to create a barrier between your feet and shoes. Fashion-focused options might not prioritise your comfort, leading to potential foot problems.

Key Features to Consider:

• Material: Choose moisture wicking fabrics such as merino wool that helps to keep your feet dry. Skip cotton, as it holds moisture near the surface of the skin, which can increase the risk of blisters.
• Cushioning: Skin becomes thinner with age, so extra support and comfort can be offered by thicker socks, which help lessen the friction and support your feet.

If you focus on these factors, you can improve the condition of your feet and overall comfort as you walk or stand.

3. Opt for Quality Insoles

Maintaining foot health and comfort require choosing the right insoles. Choosing pre-made orthotics which you place in your shoes without proper fitting can be painful. If your insoles don't fit your feet or footwear, they could make your heel sit higher than it should, causing it to rub on the back of your shoe. Having a pronounced heel or Achilles tendon makes this issue particularly common.

In addition, if your daily routine is standing, walking of let’s say more than 4 hours a day, it will have a negative effect on your comfort if you use ill fitted orthotics. Don't take your chances, invest in orthotics that are well fitted as well as designed to fit your specifications. Alleviating rubbing and reducing friction in your work boots or any footwear that you want to wear regularly requires properly selected insoles.

Consider these tips when choosing insoles:

• Make sure they fit well in your shoes.
  All your options should give you sufficient cushioning and support.
  It is always good to consult a professional for personalized solutions, if you can.

4. Consider the Materials of Your Footwear

Comfort and performance is greatly determined by the materials used in your shoes. Heel blisters are slightly more common with shoes designed out of mesh, textured fabric or synthetic textiles. Instead of depending on shoes to stretch over time, it’s important to get shoes that fit well from the beginning and which are made of quality materials.

• Suede: This leather variant is crafted from the inner layer of animal hide. Ensure a proper fit initially, as socks should not compromise this fit.
• Leather: While durable, leather is also stiff and has rough edges that may irritate. It is best not to wear them longer than one hour and wearing them at home before you go out longer is a practice to prevent discomfort. Through regular cleaning and conditioning, flexibility can be softened and enhanced.
• Canvas: Canvas shoes tend to be soft and flexible, but this can rub especially if worn without socks. Flex and adjust laces at home to find your ideal fit.
• Rubber: When shoes are usually of a rubber type, it can entrap the moisture and cause irritation to one's skin. Wear well padded socks that wick moisture away from your feet to minimize this.
• Lining Inspection: Pay attention to the inner lining of your shoes. Some shoes feature smoother, softer linings, while others may have seams and stitching that increase the risk of rubbing and irritation on your feet.

5. Minimise Moisture Accumulation in Your Footwear

To prevent blisters and friction, it’s important to keep your feet dry. Under such conditions the skin is soft and vulnerable to damage. Choose breathable, waterproof shoes like Vessi's to reduce external moisture and limit perspiration. Unlike some shoes that can trap heat and moisture, breathable options help maintain a comfortable environment.

To keep your shoes as dry as possible, you can consider covering them with absorbent powders such as talcum powder. To further promote dryness, opt for moisture wicking socks made from breathable material. If you have excessive sweating that continues for a long time, it might be a sign of Hyperhidrosis. This time, if you seek a concrete solution, you must seek the assistance of a podiatrist.

6. Explore Shoe Stretching Options

If you already purchased your new shoes and discover your shoes are a bit snug, here are some effective ways to make your new shoes fit better.

• Wear Thick Socks at Home: Put on two pairs of thick socks, and then put on shoes. As you do this, keep your eye out for your comfort level—if you feel pain or cramps, take the shoes off asap. With leather shoes, this method can be particularly useful and was something that hikers would often do to break in new boots. Extra layers of sock also help reduce the risk of blisters.
• Professional Shoe Stretching: A more straightforward approach is to walk into a local bootmaker or shoe repair shop. With them, you know they have what they need and the expertise to span your shoes without harming them. Also, there are special sprays for stretching but exercise caution. Before using the spray, always do a patch test first to make sure that the spray does not change the color or finish of the shoes.

By using one of these instead, you can make your shoes fit better and be more comfortable when you wear them.

7. Inspect for Sharp Edges

Take a good look at the back of your shoe. They can sometimes develop rough spots around seams and layers, causing discomfort. If you find that those areas are causing them to irritate or rub on your skin, then do something instead of trying to use a band aid.

Possible Solutions:

• Apply Moleskin Pads: Put them over rough places to cushion.
• Repair Options: If you have uneven stitching or seams on your shoes, take them to a professional.

Fixing these will help you feel more comfortable and keep your footwear around for longer.

Keep Long-Term Comfort and Protection in Mind

Rather than relying on band-aids and pads as a quick fix for friction and blisters, go for the sustainable comfort. Maintain your well-being by addressing any foot issues early. If you have any concerns about foot health or are suffering from perpetual pain, speak to your local podiatry team.