Have you ever slipped your foot into a pair of shoes, only to feel your heel lift slightly with every step? Worse, you walk right out of the shoes because the heel doesn’t fit snug enough. Heel slippage can be frustrating and uncomfortable, but how normal is it really? If you’ve experienced this, you’re not alone. It’s actually quite normal in some cases and common for people with thin heels.
Let’s explore the causes of heel slippage, when it's normal, and tips from experts on how to avoid it.
Is Heel Slippage Normal?
Yes, to an extent, heel slippage is common in many types of shoes—especially new ones. It happens when there’s extra room between the back of the shoe and your heel. This can occur with everything from dress shoes to sneakers to boots – any shoe with a heel backing. In fact, some heel slippage is often expected during the break-in period of a new pair of shoes.
Heel slippage is a natural part of wearing new shoes, particularly those made from stiffer materials like leather or suede. Experts suggest that the foot needs time to mold to the shoe.
However, if the slippage continues after you've worn the shoes several times, or becomes excessive, causes blisters, corns or foot pain, it may indicate a larger issue with fit or design compared to the fit your foot may require.
Causes of Heel Slippage
There are several reasons why your shoes might slip at the heel, and understanding them can help you identify solutions:
Improper Fit: If shoes are too big, there will naturally be more space at the back for your heel to move. If the space is too large and excessive, heels are likely to experience more slippage.
Design of the Shoe: Some shoes, especially those with lower-cut designs or soft backs, tend to have less structure around the heel, increasing the likelihood of slippage. Look for shoes with more structured heels.
Material: While structure is helpful, stiff materials such as leather need time to soften and conform to the shape of your foot. But not all leathers are made the same. High-end leathers can often soften and stretch faster for a better fit.
Shape of Your Foot: Everyone’s feet are shaped differently, and a shoe that fits someone else perfectly might not fit you the same way. If you have thin heels, you may experience heel slippage more, especially in less expensive, mass manufactured shoes from major retailers.
When Is Heel Slippage a Problem?
Who has ever been on their way to a meeting or presentation and just walked out of their shoes stepping on small rocks? Or sacrificed comfort for fashion ending in painful blisters?
Heel slippage becomes a problem when it leads to discomfort, blisters, corns, pain or a general feeling of instability. If your foot constantly slides in the shoe, it’s a sign that you may not have the necessary support your foot needs, which can affect your gait, posture and lead to long-term foot issues.
While some slippage is completely normal, if you notice persistent discomfort or blisters forming on the back of your heel, it's a sign that the shoe doesn't fit properly and you either need to find a solution or focus on buying only shoes that really fit.
Tips to Minimize Heel Slippage
If your heels are slipping in shoes, but you love the way that particular design and pair look, don’t despair—there are several solutions you can try:
Break in Your Shoes: Breaking in shoes is always recommended to allow feet time to get used to the fit. Give shoes some time to mold to your feet. If they need a bit of a stretch, wear them around the house with thicker socks. If you feel the heel fit is a bit loose, wearing them at home can provide a better indication of future fit.
Heel Grips: These are small pads that stick to the back of your shoe, adding grip and reducing the amount of space for your heel to move. However, most brands of heel grips do not stay in place or come off easily. Avoid it with this innovative insert.
Adjust Your Lacing: For shoes with laces, try tightening them or using a different lacing technique to keep your foot more secure. For some people with thin feet and thin heels, it may require a combination of solutions.
Insoles: Inserting a cushioned insole can take up extra space in the shoe, bringing your foot closer to the back and minimizing slippage, but it’s not a perfect solution. Some insoles and grips can make the shoe fit tighter than it should and create more discomfort, so it’s important to find the right insert that offers customized flexibility.
Visit a Cobbler: A professional cobbler can adjust the fit of your shoes or add padding in the heel area. By stretching materials or restructuring the heel, these professionals have tools and skills to help with a custom fit.
Find a shoe designer that consistently fits your feet: Finding the right designer that regularly fits your feet could be one of the best relationships of your life. Taking the time to try many styles and designers can show you which brand may be made for the best fit for your unique foot.
Conclusion
While some degree of heel slippage is normal—especially when breaking in new shoes—it shouldn’t be a long-term issue that will cause you to never wear the shoes or dump them altogether. If you’re experiencing persistent slipping, discomfort, or blisters, it may be time to reassess the fit of your shoes, find the right shoe designer or try some simple solutions to secure your step. With the right adjustments, you can enjoy your shoes in comfort and style.