Here are some ways to keep high heels from slipping off:
- Wear breathable shoes: If your feet are kept cool and dry with a well-ventilated shoe, this will reduce the chances of sweaty feet and heels slipping in and out. [1]
- Find shoes that fit snugly: Shoes that fit snugly enough will usually prevent heels from slipping out of shoes. However, make sure the shoes you buy aren’t too small, as you can get blisters.
- Use heel grips: Heel grips are adhesive patches that affix to the back of your shoe. They work very well for some feet and some shoes, though they often don’t grip at the very top edge of the shoe opening, so slipping and blistering can still occur. [2]
- Use double-sided tape: You can add a bit of double-sided tape to the inside back of your heels. Be sure to keep the tape close to the top of the heel to prevent your foot from sliding out. [3]
- Use toupee tape/ Hollywood tape: Celebs like Jessica Alba rely on double-sided tape to stop their heels from slipping off.
- Use beeswax: Beeswax can be used to stop feet from slipping out of shoes. Simply rub beeswax on the inside of your shoe. [4]
- Use shoe bumps: Shoe bumps come in a variety of options from foam to resin, and are inserted under the toe joints. These work by providing grip for your toes and traction for your foot, preventing your feet from sliding forward in your heels as you walk.
- Use insoles: Insoles can adjust the pitch and position of the foot in high heels to shift the weight off the ball of the foot and back to the heel, which can help prevent slipping.
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Wear the Right Size
Measure Your Feet
To ensure a proper fit and prevent your high heels from slipping off, it is essential to measure your feet accurately. Start by standing on a piece of paper and tracing the outline of your feet. Measure the length from the heel to the longest toe and the width at the widest part of the foot. Use these measurements as a guide when shopping for high heels. Remember that each foot may have slightly different measurements, so it’s crucial to measure both feet.
Get Professionally Fitted
If you’re having trouble finding the perfect fit on your own, it may be helpful to visit a shoe store and get professionally fitted. Professional shoe fitters have expertise in measuring feet and can recommend the right size and style of high heels for you. They will take into account the length, width, and arch type of your feet, ensuring a comfortable fit and reducing the chances of your high heels slipping off.
Consider Adjustable Straps
Another way to prevent high heels from slipping off is to opt for adjustable straps. Shoes with adjustable straps allow you to customize the fit around your ankles, providing added security and preventing any potential slippage. Look for high heel styles with buckles, Velcro straps, or adjustable closures that allow you to tighten or loosen the straps according to your comfort and preference.
Choose the Right Material
Opt for Non-Slip Insoles
To improve traction and prevent slipperiness, consider using non-slip insoles in your high heels. These insoles are designed with gripping textures or adhesive backing to keep your feet firmly in place. Simply insert them into your shoes, and they will provide an additional layer of support and stability, reducing the risk of slipping off.
Look for Grippy Outsoles
When shopping for high heels, pay attention to the outsoles. Opt for shoes with grippy outsoles made of materials that provide good traction on various surfaces. Rubber and textured materials are often excellent choices as they offer better grip and stability, helping to keep your high heels from slipping off even on smooth or slippery floors.
Consider Heel Grips or Inserts
Heel grips or inserts are practical solutions to prevent high heels from slipping off your feet. These small adhesive pads are placed inside the back of the shoe, near the heel, providing extra friction and grip. They can help fill any gaps between your foot and the shoe, ensuring a snug fit. Heel grips or inserts are available in various materials, such as gel or fabric, providing both comfort and added security.
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Improve Shoe Fit
Use Moleskin Padding
If your high heels feel slightly loose or rub against your feet, using moleskin padding can help create a better fit. Cut a small piece of moleskin padding and attach it to the areas inside the shoes that tend to rub or cause discomfort. The soft and cushioned nature of moleskin will provide relief and minimize any slipping or movement within the shoes, ensuring a more comfortable and secure fit.
Try Sandpaper or Glue
Another useful tip to improve the fit of your high heels is to use sandpaper or glue. Sand the soles of your shoes lightly with sandpaper to create a slightly rougher surface, which will enhance traction and reduce slippage. If you prefer a more permanent solution, apply a thin layer of clear-drying glue to the bottom of the shoes. Once the glue dries, it will add a bit of grip to prevent your high heels from slipping off.
Utilize Silicone Strips or Gel Cushions
Silicone strips or gel cushions are effective tools to enhance the fit of high heels as well. These thin adhesive strips or cushions can be applied to the inside of your shoes, particularly in areas where your feet tend to slide or experience discomfort. They provide a grippy surface that helps secure your feet and reduce any potential slipping or rubbing. Silicone strips and gel cushions are comfortable options as they mold to the shape of your feet, providing a personalized fit.
Adjust Walking Technique
Shorten Your Stride
One simple way to prevent your high heels from slipping off while walking is to shorten your stride. Taking shorter steps and being conscious of your gait can help maintain stability and reduce the chances of your shoes slipping off. When wearing high heels, it’s important to remember that the walking style should be different from when you’re wearing flats or sneakers. Focus on taking smaller, deliberate steps to maintain balance and control.
Bend Your Knees Slightly
Bending your knees slightly while walking in high heels can improve your stability and prevent your shoes from slipping off. By flexing your knees, you lower your center of gravity, making it easier to maintain balance and control. This technique also reduces the pressure on the balls of your feet and minimizes the chances of your heels sliding forward or slipping off.
Avoid Walking on Slippery Surfaces
To ensure your high heels stay firmly on your feet, it’s best to avoid walking on slippery or uneven surfaces whenever possible. Wet floors, icy sidewalks, or gravel paths can pose a significant risk of slipping or tripping. Opt for well-maintained and stable surfaces, and be cautious when encountering potentially hazardous areas. It’s always better to prioritize safety and prevent accidents by choosing your path wisely.
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Modify Shoes for a Better Fit
Add Elastic Straps
Adding elastic straps to your high heels can be a game-changer when it comes to preventing them from slipping off. Sew or attach elastic straps to the sides or back of your shoes, allowing them to stretch comfortably around your feet. These elastic straps provide additional support and adapt to the shape of your feet, ensuring a secure fit and minimizing the risk of your heels slipping off.
Try Heel Snugs
Heel snugs are innovative devices that help improve the fit of high heels. These small cushions are placed around the heel area to create a tighter fit, preventing any slipping or wobbling. The snug fit provided by these cushions keeps your feet secure and allows you to walk confidently without worrying about your heels slipping off. Heel snugs are typically made of soft and flexible materials such as silicone, ensuring both comfort and a better shoe fit.
Consider Heel Rings or Bands
If you find that your high heels are frequently slipping off, heel rings or bands can be a practical solution. These accessories are placed around the top part of the heels, near the back, to prevent them from sliding off. Heel rings or bands create a barrier that holds your feet firmly in place, providing stability and reducing the risk of slipping. They are available in various materials and designs, allowing you to choose a style that suits your preference.
Strengthen Your Foot Muscles
Do Toe and Ankle Exercises
Exercising your toe and ankle muscles can help improve your overall foot strength, which in turn enhances the stability and grip within your high heels. Simple exercises like toe curls, toe-pointing, or ankle rotations can target specific muscles and tendons, allowing them to become stronger and more resistant to fatigue. By strengthening these muscles, you can maintain better control over your high heels and decrease the chances of them slipping off.
Practice Walking in High Heels
Regular practice walking in high heels can significantly improve your balance and stability, making it less likely for your shoes to slip off. Start by wearing your high heels around the house or in a controlled environment to get accustomed to the new sensation. Focus on maintaining proper posture, taking deliberate steps, and gradually increase the duration and difficulty of walking. With time, your foot muscles will adapt, and you’ll develop the necessary strength and coordination to confidently strut in your high heels.
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Choose Shoes with Ankle Support
Look for Ankle Straps
High heels with ankle straps provide excellent support and prevent slipping by securely fastening around your ankles. Ankle straps offer stability and help distribute the weight more evenly, allowing you to walk comfortably without the risk of your shoes sliding off. When selecting high heels, prioritize styles that feature adjustable or secure ankle straps to keep your feet properly positioned in the shoes.
Consider T-Strap or Mary Jane Styles
T-strap or Mary Jane style high heels are another great option for those seeking added ankle support. These shoe styles often feature a strap that goes across the top of the foot and another strap that wraps around the ankle, providing extra stability and preventing slippage. The T-strap or Mary Jane design offers a secure fit while adding an elegant and feminine touch to your high heels.
Opt for Boots or Booties
For maximum ankle support and stability, consider choosing high-heeled boots or booties. These shoe styles cover the entire foot and provide additional coverage around the ankles. By enveloping the foot and ankle, boots or booties offer a secure fit, minimizing the chances of your high heels slipping off. Additionally, these shoe options are often designed with sturdy soles, providing better grip on various surfaces.
Use Anti-Slip Products
Apply Hairspray or Grip Spray
Using hairspray or grip spray on the soles of your high heels can significantly increase traction and prevent slipping. Spray a small amount on the bottom of your shoes, and allow it to dry before wearing them. The sticky residue left by the hairspray or grip spray will provide additional grip and help keep your high heels firmly in place, even on smooth or slippery surfaces.
Rub Sandpaper on the Soles
Rubbing sandpaper on the soles of your high heels is a simple and cost-effective way to improve traction. Gently sand the bottoms of your shoes using fine-grit sandpaper, creating a slightly rougher surface. This increased texture will enhance grip and minimize the likelihood of your high heels slipping off. However, it’s important not to overdo it and risk damaging the shoes, so take care to sand lightly.
Try Non-Slip Tapes
Non-slip tapes are practical and versatile options to prevent high heels from slipping off. These adhesive tapes can be cut to size and applied to the soles of your shoes, creating a non-slip surface. The textured nature of the tapes enhances traction, providing a secure grip and reducing the risk of slippage. Non-slip tapes are available in various colors and designs, allowing you to choose one that matches your high heels’ aesthetics.
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Consider Shoe Modification Services
Consult a Shoe Repair Shop
If you’ve tried various methods to prevent your high heels from slipping off without success, consider consulting a shoe repair shop. Shoe repair professionals have expertise in modifying shoes to improve fit and comfort. They can offer customized solutions such as adding straps, altering the shoe structure, or adjusting the fit to make your high heels more secure and prevent slippage. Discuss your concerns with a reputable shoe repair shop to explore available options.
Explore Custom Made High Heels
For those who struggle to find high heels that properly fit or constantly slip off, investing in custom-made high heels might be worth considering. Custom shoe manufacturers can create high heels designed specifically for your feet, taking into account accurate measurements and addressing any fit issues you may have. Custom-made high heels ensure an impeccable fit, providing optimal comfort and significantly reducing the risk of slippage.
Know When to Seek Professional Help
Consult a Podiatrist
If you experience persistent issues with your high heels slipping off, it may be beneficial to consult a podiatrist. Podiatrists specialize in foot and ankle care and can assess any underlying foot conditions that might contribute to the slipping. They can provide professional advice, recommend appropriate footwear options, and suggest orthotic inserts to help improve your shoe fit and overall foot health.
Explore Orthotic Inserts
Orthotic inserts are specially designed shoe inserts that help correct foot-related issues and improve shoe fit. If your high heels consistently slip off, orthotic inserts can help provide support, cushioning, or correction for alignment problems. These inserts help distribute the pressure evenly and stabilize your feet, reducing any instability or discomfort. Consult with a healthcare professional or podiatrist to determine the most suitable orthotic inserts for your specific needs.
Consider Foot Surgery if Necessary
In severe cases where other methods have failed to address the slipping issue, foot surgery may be a last resort option. Foot surgery can correct structural abnormalities in the feet that contribute to instability or slippage in high heels. This is generally considered a more extreme measure and should only be pursued after exhausting all other possibilities and consulting with a qualified foot and ankle surgeon.
In conclusion, preventing high heels from slipping off requires a combination of selecting the right size and material, adjusting the fit, modifying the shoes if necessary, improving foot strength, choosing shoes with ankle support, utilizing anti-slip products, and seeking professional help when needed. By following these tips, you’ll be able to enjoy wearing high heels with confidence, without worrying about them slipping off, and strut your stuff in style.