How To Keep Heels From Slipping Out Of Shoes?

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s essential to maintain a professional appearance, and nothing can ruin that more than the inconvenience of constantly slipping heels. Whether you’re headed to an important business meeting or a social event, struggling to keep your heels in place can be both frustrating and embarrassing. However, with a few simple techniques and preventative measures, you can bid farewell to this common problem and maintain your confidence with every step. This article will provide you with valuable insights and effective strategies on how to keep your heels from slipping out of shoes, ensuring that you remain poised and refined in any situation.

Choosing the Right Size

Measure Your Feet

When it comes to preventing your heels from slipping out of shoes, the first step is to ensure that you are wearing the right size. It is essential to measure your feet accurately to determine your correct shoe size. Start by tracing the outline of your foot on a piece of paper. Then, using a ruler, measure the length from the tip of your longest toe to the back of your heel. Additionally, measure the width of the widest part of your foot. By taking accurate measurements, you can select shoes that fit snugly and minimize slippage.

Consider Shoe Width

In addition to measuring the length of your feet, considering the width is crucial for finding well-fitting shoes that prevent slippage. Many shoe brands offer various width options, such as narrow, regular, wide, and extra wide. If you find that your heels slip out of shoes, it might be worth exploring wider width options. The extra space provided by wider shoes can provide a more secure fit and reduce the likelihood of slippage.

Try Different Brands

Different shoe brands have different designs and fits, so it’s important to try out a variety of brands to find the one that works best for you. Even if you measure your feet accurately and consider the width, some shoes may still cause your heels to slip out. Experimenting with different brands can help you identify which ones offer a snug and secure fit for your feet. It is recommended to visit shoe stores and try on different brands to determine which brands provide the best fit and minimize the risk of slippage.

Using Insoles and Cushions

Gel Inserts

Gel inserts are an excellent option for preventing heels from slipping out of shoes. These soft, cushioned inserts adhere to the inside of your shoes and provide extra support and grip. Gel inserts are designed to contour to the shape of your feet, providing a comfortable and secure fit. By placing gel inserts in the back of your shoes, you can create additional friction, preventing your heels from sliding out. Gel inserts are available in various sizes and are easily removable, making them a versatile solution for addressing heel slippage.

Invisible Strips

If you prefer a more discreet solution, invisible strips can be an effective tool for keeping heels in place. These thin, transparent adhesive strips can be placed inside the back of your shoes, providing a non-slip surface. Invisible strips are designed to be virtually invisible, ensuring that they don’t detract from the aesthetics of your shoes. By adding these strips to the inside of your shoes, you can enhance traction, reducing the likelihood of your heels slipping out.

Foam Cushions

Foam cushions are another option to consider when dealing with heel slippage. These soft, padded cushions can be inserted into the back of your shoes to provide additional support and grip. Foam cushions are particularly useful if you experience discomfort or rubbing at the back of your heels. The extra padding helps to reduce friction and creates a snug fit, minimizing the likelihood of your heels slipping out. Foam cushions are available in various thicknesses, allowing you to customize the level of support and comfort you need.

Using Grip-Enhancing Products

Non-Slip Heel Grips

Non-slip heel grips are adhesive pads that attach to the back of your shoes to enhance grip and prevent slippage. These grips are typically made of rubber or silicone, offering a high level of friction. They create a barrier between your heel and the shoe, reducing the chance of your foot sliding out. Non-slip heel grips are easy to apply and can be used with a wide range of shoe styles, including high heels and flats. By applying these grips to the back of your shoes, you can significantly improve stability and prevent heel slippage.

Moleskin

Moleskin is a soft, durable fabric that can be used to alleviate discomfort and prevent slippage. By placing moleskin on the inside of the back of your shoes, you can create a smoother surface that reduces friction and promotes a better fit. Moleskin is particularly effective when dealing with shoes that have rough or abrasive surfaces on the inside. It provides a protective layer between your skin and the shoe, preventing blisters and minimizing slippage.

Adhesive Strips

Adhesive strips are versatile products that can be used to enhance traction and keep your heels in place. These strips are typically made of a durable, adhesive material that sticks to both your shoes and your feet. By applying adhesive strips to the inside of your shoes or your heels, you can create a more secure fit. These strips are particularly useful if you have narrow feet or if your shoes are slightly too big. Adhesive strips come in various sizes and can be easily removed without leaving a residue.

Adjusting Straps and Buckles

Tighten the Buckle

If you’re wearing shoes with buckles, tightening them can help minimize heel slippage. Many shoes have adjustable buckles that allow you to tighten or loosen the strap to achieve the desired fit. By tightening the buckle, you can create a more secure and snug hold around your feet, reducing the chance of your heels sliding out. It’s essential to find the right balance between a comfortable fit and a secure hold to ensure optimal stability throughout the day.

Add Extra Holes

For shoes with straps or laces, adding extra holes can provide a tighter fit and prevent slippage. If the existing holes don’t allow you to achieve the desired level of tightness, you can use a hole puncher or take your shoes to a shoe repair shop to have additional holes added. By having the option to customize the fit of your shoes, you can address any specific slippage issues you may be experiencing. Adding extra holes allows you to adjust the tightness of the straps to better secure your heels in place.

Use Strap Cushions

If the straps of your shoes are causing discomfort or rubbing on your skin, strap cushions can help alleviate these issues while also reducing slippage. Strap cushions are soft pads that can be attached to the straps of your shoes, providing extra padding and preventing friction. By adding strap cushions, you can enhance comfort and create a more secure fit. These cushions are typically made from materials such as foam or silicone, offering both cushioning and grip properties.

Using Strips and Band-Aids

Place Strips on the Back of Your Heels

Using adhesive strips on the back of your heels is a simple yet effective method for preventing slippage. These strips adhere to your skin and create a non-slip surface, reducing the likelihood of your heels sliding out of your shoes. By placing the strips on the areas that experience the most slippage, such as the Achilles tendon area, you can enhance grip and stability. Additionally, the strips act as a protective barrier between your skin and the shoe, minimizing friction and preventing blisters.

Wrap Band-Aids Around Your Feet

Band-Aids can be a quick fix for heel slippage. By wrapping Band-Aids around specific areas of your feet, such as the back of your heel or the sides, you can create a smoother surface that reduces friction and secures your feet in place. Band-Aids are readily available and come in various sizes, making them a convenient option for on-the-go use. While Band-Aids provide a temporary solution, they may not be as durable as other methods in preventing long-term slippage.

Apply Double-Sided Tape

Double-sided tape can provide a secure hold for your heels, keeping them from slipping out of your shoes. This method involves applying tape to both your skin and the inside of your shoes. Double-sided tape helps create a stronger bond between your feet and the shoe, minimizing slippage. However, it’s important to use tape that is skin-friendly and won’t leave residue or damage your shoes when removing it. Double-sided tape offers a temporary fix and may need to be reapplied during extended wear.

Adding Friction with Sandpaper

Roughen the Soles of Your Shoes

If your shoes have smooth soles, applying sandpaper to the bottom can increase traction and prevent slippage. Gently rub sandpaper against the soles to create a roughened surface that improves grip. Sandpaper can be particularly helpful if you’re wearing heels on slippery surfaces or if you find that your shoes don’t have sufficient traction. Be cautious not to roughen the soles too much, as excessive sanding can damage the shoe material.

Scratch the Bottoms of Your Heels

Similarly to roughening the soles, scratching the bottoms of your heels can provide added friction and prevent slippage. If your heels have a smooth or glossy finish, using a sharp object such as a knife or sandpaper can help create small scratches on the surface. These scratches enhance grip and help anchor your feet in place. However, it’s crucial to exercise caution when scratching your heels, as using excessive force or the wrong tools can cause damage.

Applying Hairspray or Deodorant

Spray Hairspray on Your Feet

Hairspray can be a surprising yet effective solution for preventing slippage. By spraying a light coat of hairspray on the bottom of your feet, you can create a slightly sticky surface that enhances grip. The sticky residue helps your feet adhere to the inside of the shoe, reducing the chance of slippage. However, it’s important to choose a hairspray that is skin-friendly and won’t cause irritation. Additionally, it’s recommended to test a small patch of skin for any adverse reactions before applying hairspray to your entire foot.

Apply Deodorant on Your Heels

Another unexpected solution is applying deodorant to the back of your heels. Deodorants that come in stick form, such as antiperspirants, can be used to create a more secure fit. By applying a thin layer of deodorant to the back of your heels, you can reduce friction and increase grip. The waxy texture of the deodorant helps your feet stay in place, minimizing slippage. It’s advisable to use a deodorant without any added fragrances or skin irritants to avoid any potential discomfort.

Using Rubbing Alcohol or Silicone Strips

Dab Rubbing Alcohol on Your Feet

Rubbing alcohol can be a practical solution for preventing slippage by improving traction. By dabbing a small amount of rubbing alcohol on the bottom of your feet, you can create a slightly tacky surface that helps your feet adhere to the inside of the shoe. The alcohol evaporates quickly, leaving no residue or damage to your feet or shoes. However, it’s important to avoid applying excessive amounts of rubbing alcohol, as it can dry out your skin or cause irritation.

Attach Silicone Strips to Your Shoes

Silicone strips are adhesive pads that can be attached to the inside of your shoes to provide additional grip and prevent slippage. These strips are typically made of a soft, durable silicone material that offers both cushioning and traction. By adhering silicone strips to the back of your shoes, you can create a non-slip surface that helps keep your heels in place. Silicone strips are available in various sizes and shapes, making them compatible with a wide range of shoe styles.

Stretching the Shoes

Use a Shoe Stretcher

If your shoes are slightly tight and causing heel slippage, using a shoe stretcher can help increase their size and improve the fit. A shoe stretcher is a tool that, when inserted into the shoe, applies pressure to stretch the material. By gradually expanding the width of the shoe, you can create more room for your feet, reducing slippage. It’s important to follow the instructions provided with the shoe stretcher and work slowly to avoid stretching the shoes too much and causing deformation.

Wear Thick Socks

Wearing thick socks can help stretch your shoes and prevent slippage by adding extra padding and filling any empty space. This method is particularly useful if you realize your shoes are slightly big or if you experience slippage mainly due to the width or volume of your feet. By wearing thick socks, you can temporarily increase the size of your feet, resulting in a snugger fit inside the shoes. However, it’s important to note that this method may not be suitable for all shoe styles, such as sandals or open-toe shoes.

Heat and Freeze Method

The heat and freeze method is a technique to stretch shoes using temperature changes. Start by wearing thick socks, and then apply heat to the tight areas of your shoes using a hairdryer. The heat softens the material and makes it more pliable. After heating, keep the shoes on and allow them to cool down while your feet are still inside. As the shoes cool, the material contracts and adjusts to the shape of your feet, potentially reducing slippage. This method requires caution, especially with delicate or synthetic materials, as excessive heat can damage the shoes.

Getting Professional Help

Visit a Shoe Repair Shop

If you’ve tried various methods and still experience heel slippage, it may be beneficial to seek assistance from a professional at a shoe repair shop. Shoe repair shops have the expertise and tools to address fit issues and provide custom solutions. They can add additional padding, adjust straps, or even stretch the shoes to achieve a more secure fit. By consulting a professional, you can receive personalized advice and ensure that the modifications made to your shoes are done correctly and effectively.

Consult a Podiatrist

If you’re experiencing chronic heel slippage or discomfort, it may be beneficial to consult a podiatrist. A podiatrist is a healthcare professional specializing in foot and ankle conditions. They can evaluate your feet, assess any underlying issues, and provide treatment options tailored to your needs. In some cases, heel slippage may be a symptom of a larger foot problem that requires professional attention. A podiatrist can offer valuable guidance and recommend specific products or techniques that best suit your situation.

In conclusion, preventing heels from slipping out of shoes can be achieved through various methods and techniques. Understanding proper shoe sizing, considering shoe width, and exploring different brands are essential in finding the right fit. Using insoles, cushions, grip-enhancing products, and adjusting straps can all contribute to a more secure and comfortable fit. Additionally, utilizing strips, band-aids, sandpaper, or even applying hairspray or deodorant can help increase traction and minimize slippage. Stretching the shoes and seeking professional help from a shoe repair shop or podiatrist are further options to consider. By implementing these strategies, you can enjoy wearing your favorite heels without the worry of them slipping out of place.