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How to stop shoes slipping at heel?
Heel slippage in shoes can be frustrating, but there are several ways to reduce or eliminate it:
1. Use Heel Grips or Pads
- Heel Grips: Stick-on pads made from gel, foam, or suede that you place on the back of the heel inside the shoe. They add cushioning and help fill the gap, reducing slippage.
- Cushion Inserts: Full or half insoles can lift your foot slightly, creating a snugger fit in the heel area.
2. Adjust the Laces
- Lock Lacing: A specific way of tying laces that locks the foot in place. This is especially useful in athletic shoes or boots. You loop the laces through the last eyelet in a way that creates more tension at the top, securing the foot.
3. Use Anti-Slip Socks
- These socks have grips on the soles or are made from materials that prevent slipping inside the shoe.
4. Use a Shoe Filler
- Toe inserts or tongue pads can help push your foot back into the heel area, reducing the gap.
5. Wear Thicker Socks
- Thicker socks can take up more space inside the shoe, leading to a better fit.
6. Try Shoe Stretching
- If the shoes are slightly too small, using a shoe stretcher can help expand them slightly, allowing for a better overall fit, including at the heel.
7. Visit a Cobbler
- A professional can add padding, adjust the shoe’s shape, or even tailor the fit to your foot.
Why does shoes slipping on heels occur?
Heel slippage in shoes occurs when there isn’t enough friction or a secure fit between your heel and the back of the shoe. Several factors can contribute to this issue:
1. Incorrect Size
- Too Big: If the shoes are slightly too large, your heel will not be snug against the back, allowing it to slip as you walk.
- Too Small: Ironically, shoes that are too small can also cause heel slippage. If your toes are cramped at the front, your heel might be pushed up and out of the shoe with each step.
2. Improper Fit
- Wide Heels: Some people have narrower heels, and standard shoe sizes might not fit them well, leading to extra space at the back.
- High Arches: People with high arches might find that their foot doesn’t sit properly in the shoe, causing their heel to lift as they walk.
3. New or Stiff Shoes
- Break-In Period: New shoes, especially those made from stiff materials like leather, may not conform to your foot shape immediately, causing heel slippage until they break in.
4. Shoe Design
- Low-Cut Shoes: Shoes with a low back or a shallow heel cup (like some flats or loafers) might not provide enough support to hold the heel in place.
- Slippery Interior: Shoes lined with smooth materials, such as certain leathers or synthetics, can make it easier for your foot to slide around.
5. Shoe Wear
- Worn Out Shoes: Over time, the heel area of a shoe can stretch out or lose its shape, leading to slippage.
- Loose Laces: If laces aren’t tight enough, they can fail to secure your foot in place, leading to heel movement.
6. Foot Shape
- Narrow Heels: People with a naturally narrow heel may experience more slippage, especially in shoes that aren’t designed for that foot shape.
- Pronated Feet: Overpronation (where the foot rolls inward too much) can also cause the heel to lift more than usual.
Understanding the cause of heel slippage in your shoes can help you find the most effective solution.
READ ALSO: How to fix gap between toes?
FAQs
How to make shoes tighter in the heel?
Adding an insole can raise your foot slightly, making the heel area tighter. This can be particularly helpful if your shoes are slightly too big overall.
How do you tie your shoes to prevent heels from slipping?
Step-by-Step Guide to Lock Lacing
Lace the Shoes Normally:
Begin by lacing your shoes as you normally would, crisscrossing the laces through the eyelets until you reach the second-to-last pair of eyelets.
Create Loops with the Top Eyelets:
Instead of crossing the laces into the last set of eyelets, thread each lace straight up through the top eyelet on the same side, creating a small loop on each side of the shoe.
Cross the Laces:
Take each lace and thread it through the loop on the opposite side.
Pull Tight:
Pull the laces tight to bring the loops snug against the shoe. This creates additional tension at the top of the shoe, securing your heel in place.
Finish Tying:
Tie your shoes as you normally would with a bow or double knot to keep them securely fastened.
Author
Paula Maureen has collaborated with famous shoe brands and designed popular women’s sandals. As a proofreader, she contributes to foot wisdom.
