Preventing Heel Rubbing With Boat Shoes

Boat shoes are a stylish and comfortable option for many, but they can often cause blisters and rubbing on the heels. This is a common issue, especially with new shoes, and can be painful and irritating. There are several ways to prevent and treat this issue, from choosing the right socks to adding insoles and heel grips. In this article, we will explore some of the best methods to ensure your boat shoes are comfortable and don't cause any heel rubbing. We will also discuss the reasons why this happens and offer long-term solutions to keep your feet happy and healthy.

Wear socks that are taller than your shoes

Wearing socks that extend beyond the topline or collar of your boat shoes is an effective way to prevent blisters and chafing on your heels. This is because the friction caused when walking exposes more skin, leading to pain and blisters. By wearing taller socks, you can prevent this skin exposure and reduce the risk of blisters.

When choosing socks to wear with your boat shoes, opt for thicker, higher-quality fabrics that provide extra cushioning and arch support. This will further minimize movement within your shoes, reducing friction and providing a comfortable barrier between your feet and the shoes. It is also important to ensure that your socks are the correct size. Improperly sized socks can slide down or stretch too thin, leading to increased friction and discomfort. Choose socks that are specifically designed to fit your shoe size rather than opting for a "one-size-fits-all" option.

Additionally, consider the material of your socks. Select socks made from materials that wick moisture away from the skin, such as merino wool or wool. Cotton socks, on the other hand, tend to trap moisture, which can increase the risk of blisters. By choosing the right sock material, you can keep your feet dry and comfortable while reducing friction.

If you want to stretch your boat shoes to achieve a more comfortable fit, consider wearing two pairs of thick socks while breaking them in. This technique is commonly used by hikers to stretch their hiking boots and can help prevent blisters. Just be sure not to overdo it, and remove the socks if you experience any foot pain or cramps.

Choose the right socks

When it comes to choosing the right socks to prevent your boat shoes from rubbing your heels, there are a few key factors to consider.

Firstly, the material of the socks is important. Look for socks made with moisture-wicking fabrics that can help keep your feet dry. Synthetic blends or merino wool are good options, as they absorb moisture and regulate temperature, keeping your feet comfortable in both hot and cold weather. Avoid 100% cotton socks, as cotton holds moisture against your skin, leading to increased friction and the potential for blisters.

Thickness and padding are also important considerations. Thicker socks with dense padding, especially in the heel and toe areas, can provide a barrier between your feet and your shoes, reducing friction and the risk of blisters. You can also try doubling up on socks to increase thickness and provide more protection.

Make sure the socks fit properly. Poorly fitting socks can increase friction and cause blisters. Socks that are too loose can bunch up, especially around the heels and toes, while socks that are too tight can be constricting. Choose socks that are the correct size and provide enough flexibility to accommodate day-to-day changes in the shape of your feet.

Additionally, consider socks with extra features designed to prevent blisters. Look for socks with extra cushioning, a liner layer, or a heel tab, which can provide added protection against friction.

Finally, remember to try on your boat shoes with the socks you plan to wear to ensure a comfortable fit and to reduce the chances of rubbing and blisters.

Use insoles

Insoles are a great way to stop your boat shoes from rubbing against your heels. They are brilliant at lifting your foot to reduce the surface area between your heel and the back of your shoe, thus reducing friction and making the shoe more comfortable overall.

When choosing insoles, it is important to ensure they are well-fitted and designed for your feet and shoes. Poorly fitted insoles can lead to rubbing against the back of your heel. Orthotics that prevent overpronation can effectively prevent heel rubbing and irritation of the Achilles tendon. They can also raise your foot and change the angle at which the heel presses against the back of the shoe, which can be very effective if you have a bone spur or bump on the back of your heel.

Custom orthotics can be very effective in preventing heel rubbing and overpronation. This is something a podiatrist can help with in most cases. When well-fitted and designed, insoles can ease the rubbing and friction.

It is also important to note that insoles should not be too tight as this can decrease the room in an already tight shoe. Ensure that you have enough room in your boat shoes for the insoles to fit comfortably. Additionally, consider the height of the insoles. If they are too high, your heel may sit right at the top of the back of your shoe, which may encourage rubbing, especially if you have a prominent heel or Achilles tendon.

Overall, adding insoles to your boat shoes is an excellent way to prevent rubbing and blisters. They reduce friction when you walk and provide protection for the back of your heel.

Be mindful of shoe materials

When buying boat shoes, it is important to be mindful of the shoe materials. Shoes made from mesh, coarse fabric, and other synthetic textiles are more likely to cause friction and heel blisters than shoes made from natural materials. While it is always recommended to wear shoes in, don't expect them to stretch. Select shoes made from good materials that feel comfortable and have a good fit from the start.

Suede is a type of leather made from the underside of animal skin. When it comes to suede, ensure you get the right fit, and don't compromise that fit with the socks you select.

Leather can be hard and inflexible with unforgiving edges, so it is recommended to wear them around the house before wearing them for days on end. Cleaning and conditioning your leather will also help them become softer and more flexible.

Canvas is soft and comfortable, but it is a common source of rubbing, especially as these shoes are often worn with bare feet and no sock protection. Wear them around the house, bend them backward and forward, and adjust your lacing if your shoes are feeling too tight or loose.

Rubber has a greater tendency to rub and trap moisture, which can irritate the skin and make you more vulnerable to skin breaks. If your shoes are predominantly rubber, make sure you're wearing good, padded socks that wick moisture away from your feet.

Don't forget to check the lining of your shoes. While some shoes have a softer and seamless lining, others have stitching and connections that can pose an additional rubbing and irritation risk.

Reduce moisture in your shoes

To reduce moisture in your boat shoes, try using foot powder or a quality pair of socks to absorb excess moisture. This will help to prevent your shoes from rubbing. This tip is particularly helpful if you're wearing sandals or trainers. Reducing moisture will also keep your feet fresh and clean.

To prevent odour, scrub your feet in the shower, and use a foot powder such as Gold Bond to reduce moisture in the shoe. You can also try a spray anti-antiperspirant on your feet before putting on your shoes.

If your shoes are already damp, remove the insoles and let them air-dry separately. You can also stuff your shoes with newspaper to absorb excess moisture and help maintain their shape.

To weather your boat shoes, place them in a flat plastic box with saltwater for at least four hours. The saltwater will help remove the topcoat of the boat shoe and soften the leather for a more relaxed and worn-in fit. When the time is up, remove your shoes, rinse them with cold water, and let them air-dry.

Frequently asked questions