How to stop sandals rubbing against your feet

Sandals can be a comfortable, stylish footwear choice, especially as we head towards long, warm summer days. However, sometimes a new pair, or one you just love through the irritation, can rub against your feet, causing discomfort, skin irritation and even blisters.

Here are a few helpful tips to stop sandals rubbing, from the tops of your feet to the bottom.

Why do sandals hurt my feet?

When it comes to an ache or irritation in your feet from wearing sandals, there can be a number of different culpets. While the height of your arches and your activity level are just a couple of those to consider, simply looking for comfier, more supportive sandals or how to make your favourite summer shoe an absolute dream to wear are great places to start.

5 ways you can stop sandals rubbing

1. Choose the right sandals

Getting the right size
Even if you’ve been your shoe size for years, it’s always worth measuring your feet when picking up a new pair of sandals. Sizes might fluctuate between brands, plus with sandals you’ll have a little extra breathing space that closed-toe shoes.

Comfortable material
Materials can make a huge difference in ensuring your feet are comfortable. Not only from avoiding stiffer textile, but also finding something that breathes well and holds up to both time and environmental factors.

Ensure sandals adhere to foot shape
Like the varying shapes of our bodies, our feet also need to find the perfect feet for ultimate comfort. If you have wide feet, you’ll want something with a bit of flex that isn't too tight. Narrow feet will benefit from a bit more security, like a gladiator sandal, or pointy shoes for the ultimate pixie look.

What are the different types of sandals?

Flat sandals – From gladiator and ankle straps to flip flops and slides, flat sandals are the ultimate comfortable shoe for everyday wear.

Heeled sandals – Dress things up a bit with a strapped or chunky heel. And with dozens of styles and colours to choose from, you’ll always have a show-stopping accompanyment to any outfit.

Wedge sandals – Love a bit of height but not a fan of heels? Wedge sandals are the way to go. Stylish, comfortable, flexible for day or night wear, and a must-have for any summer wardrobe.

Mules – These gorgeous shoes offer a little extra space to walk around in, whether in flat, flip flop, or heeled form.

Flatforms – Perfectly level, adding a flatform shoe to your arsenal does more than just boosting your height – it’ll boost your confidence as well.

Flip flops – Open-toed and ideal for most summer activities, flip flops are a core staple to help beat the heat.

Slides – Whether you’re taking a stroll on the beach or having brunch out with friends, slides are the ultimate shoe for casual, comfortable wear.

Walking sandals – Comfortable, breathable and secure, walking sandals are designed to keep you safe on every adventure.

Beach shoes – From bright flip flops to show-stopping espadrilles, beach shoes are the perfect way to add a touch of style and fun to any summer outfit.

2. Put something soft between your skin and sandals

Socks and sandals style tips
This previously controversial fashion styling is the perfect example of cringe to cool in the right circumstances. Just be sure to wear clean, non-clashing socks together with slides and, basically, any sandal that doesn’t have a toe post. Cute? Check. Functional? Double check.

Moleskin is an excellent defence
When it comes to easing foot discomfort, Moleskin is a must to prevent rubbing, friction burn, blisters, bunions and calluses. Just cut off what you need and stick it either to your foot in problem areas or to your sandals – it’s excellent for stiff edges, sharp stitching and for cushioning your heel in the ‘breaking in’ process.

3. Break sandals in

Speaking of the ‘breaking in’ process, it really is an essential part of making new shoes comfortable enough to wear outside for long periods of time. Start by wearing them around the house as you go about your business, whether you can last all day or have them on for small bursts. Another thing to consider before you jump straight into wearing them is flexing the soles of your new shoes to help work out and loosen the material.

For a fully comprehensive guide to breaking them in, take a look at our guide here and discover some excellent tips: https://www.deichmann.com/en-gb/how-to-break-in-shoes

4. Reduce friction

We’ve all been the victim of sores and blisters, from walking around in new leather boots to favourite heels that end up swinging from your fingertips after a night of dancing. With sandals, there’s a couple of tricks you can try before despairing.

Adjust the straps
If you have a strappy sandal with an adjustable buckle, setting it too tight can make rubbing worse – especially during warmer days. Loosening it up a bit will help give your feet some space without sacrificing security.

Use Talcum powder
Since Talcum powder is hydrophobic, anything you sprinkle it on will stay dry (within reason). And since moisture + friction = blisters, you can see why it’s a good idea to have some on hand. Give your feet a powdery sprinkle, especially if you’re wearing socks, and say goodbye to friction burns.

Use lotion
On the other side of things, having dry, cracked skin will give you the opposite effect. Using a good moisturiser should keep your feet soft and, as a result, your shoes should be friction-free. Though, avoid putting any between your toes – you’ll want that area to stay as dry as possible.

5. Consider getting different sandals

Sometimes it doesn’t matter what you do to help with comfort, it’s just not in the cards. But don’t worry, this is an opportunity for you to discover your next big look and find the summer sandals of your dreams.

As we’ve already mentioned, there are lots of different styles to choose between, from great all-rounders, to your perfect night-time fit. Flip flops, for example, are fantastic beach shoes, but shouldn’t hold a permanent place on your summer shelf. Instead, you might want to take a look at chunky slides or mules that have better overall support.

When it comes to picking out your perfect look, Deichmann’s extensive range of sandals has something for everyone – so, why not find your signature style today?

Men’s sandals | Women’s sandals

Conclusion
 

Stopping sandals rubbing can be a frustrating venture, especially if you’re already out and about. But, sticking to these helpful tips should help you both prepare and combat any friction, sores and blisters at risk of developing.

Just be vigilant and test your sandals out thoroughly indoors before taking them for a spin outside, and don’t feel bad if you have to return them. No matter how much people say ‘pain is beauty’, there’s always another shoe waiting to be discovered that’s as comfortable as it is beautiful.