11 clever ways to make your shoes more comfortable – and avoid blisters!

If you’re sick of getting blisters after only 5 minutes of walking in your new shoes but don’t want to go bare foot every day, there are a number of ways to fix the problem without resorting to drastic measures.

Help is out there and believe it or not: you can make shoes blisterproof and you will be able to wear high heels should you choose to!

Here’s 11 of our favourite shoe tips.

1. Lubricate to stop blisters

If you, like me, seem to get blisters every single time you try on new shoes, there are a number of ways to prevent this irritating and painful problem.

Some people swear by using clear non-chafe deodorant on the areas prone to blisters, while others believe a dab of petroleum jelly or a dust of baby powder will stop friction.

2. Tape your toes

There is a nerve that splits between your third and fourth toes, and wearing heels puts pressure on this nerve, resulting in sore feet. To alleviate the pressure, tape your third and fourth toes together with medical tape.

3. Rough up the sole

We’ve all had an unfortunate slip in new shoes, so to avoid this happening, simply rough up the sole with sandpaper to give you more grip.

4. Widen the shafts of boots

Got some new boots, you can widen the shafts of your boots by using rubbing alcohol and newspaper. Mix equal parts rubbing alcohol and water then place the mixture in a spray bottle. Lightly spray the insides of the boots and slip them on immediately to loosen them up and fit to your form. Repeat this process until you get the results you want then keep them that size by stuff with newspaper overnight.

5. Get rid of foot odours

Foot odour spray can be pricey but you have everything you need in your kitchen. Simply pop a couple of unused tea bags in each shoe to absorb odours and give a neutral scent.

6. Expand your non-leather shoes with water

Don’t try this on leather shoes! If you have synthetic, cheaper shoes that are a little tight you can use this trick: fill up a ziplock bag with water and place in the shoe. Pop this in the freezer and leave overnight!

7. Waterproof

A cheap way to waterproof any of your shoes is to rub beeswax on the fabric, because who really wants wet shoes?

8. Try shoes on in the afternoon or evening

Feet can swell up to a half size bigger by the end of the day, making it the right time to buy shoes in just the right size.

9. Check the heel

Manufacturers put a stiffening agent in the heel area, but sadly this makes it prime spot for friction and blisters. Check the heel before you buy and make sure it’s pliable and could wear down with use.

10. Do the thumb test

Obviously, your shoes will hurt if they’re too small. There’s a simple trick to find out if they really aren’t for you: there should be a thumb’s width from the front of the inside of your shoe to the end of your longest toe.

11. Look for the more comfortable styles

There are so many comfortable styles out there, you just have to look around. Platforms, wedges, low heels, rounded flats and heels with straps are all better for walking.

12. Try the hairdryer trick

Pop on some socks and put on your tight shoes. Grab your hairdryer and blast your shoes on the highest heat setting whilst you wiggle your toes.

13. Buy leather

Try to buy leather shoes. They’re some of the most comfortable shoes, they last forever, and leather lotion will soften the leather and make it more malleable. Leather is much more easy to manipulate and can be stretched fairly easily.

14. Walk around!

It sounds silly but it is very important to walk around for a few minutes in the shoes you want to buy. If they are not comfortable in the store, they will not be comfortable at home. check where they’re irritating your feet(if they are) and check other sizes, even half sizes.

Do you have any other tips for making your shoes more comfortable?