Keep Shoes From Slipping Off the back of your feet, as it can be a frustrating issue. It’s not just an annoyance; it can lead to discomfort, blisters, and even injury.

In Australia, where people frequently wear a mix of casual and formal footwear, this problem is all too common. Whether you’re walking in your favorite loafers or attending an event in dress shoes, heel slippage can make your day uncomfortable.

Research shows that around 25% of the population has narrow heels, making them particularly prone to this issue. 

Many shoes, unfortunately, aren’t designed with this in mind. Most manufacturers create footwear with “average” heel sizes, leaving those with slimmer heels struggling to find a proper fit.

Why Shoes Slip

Heel slippage often occurs due to a combination of factors related to shoe design, foot shape, and material choice. For many Australians, this problem starts with the way most shoes are manufactured. 

Shoe brands tend to cater to the majority, designing for “average” heel sizes. However, about 25% of people have narrow heels, which means their heels don’t fill the space in the shoe’s heel cup, leading to slipping.

Poor fit is a significant contributor. Shoes that are even slightly too big or too wide can cause the heel to lift with each step. This is common in non-padded shoes like dress shoes or loafers, where the lack of cushioning exacerbates the problem. 

Certain materials, particularly slick or stiff ones, provide less grip, making it easier for your heel to slip out.

Foot shape also plays a role. People with a larger forefoot-to-heel ratio are more likely to experience heel slippage, as their heels are naturally narrower compared to the front of their feet. 

The gap between the heel and the shoe leaves too much room, allowing the foot to move freely within the shoe.

Practical Solutions to Prevent Slipping

Adjusting Shoe Fit

One of the most effective ways to prevent heel slippage is by improving the fit of your shoes. Simple adjustments can make a significant difference. 

For example, heel grips are adhesive pads placed inside the heel of the shoe, designed to fill the extra space and keep your foot secure. 

These grips are especially useful for dress shoes and loafers, where cushioning is minimal. Tongue pads are another option; they tighten the fit around the top of your foot, pushing your heel back into place. These are particularly helpful for shoes with a narrow toe box but a wider heel.

Modifying the Shoe

Sometimes, a more direct modification to the shoe itself is required. Insoles can provide additional support and reduce slippage. However, be cautious: adding insoles may raise your foot slightly, which can worsen the slippage in some cases. 

For a more substantial fix, consider consulting a cobbler who can adjust the heel cup or stretch the shoe to better fit your foot. Custom adjustments can often solve persistent slipping issues that off-the-shelf products cannot.

Foot Care and Maintenance

Maintaining dry feet is another key to preventing slippage. Sweat can make your feet slide around inside your shoes, especially in Australia’s warmer climate. 

Using foot powder or an antiperspirant spray can help keep your feet dry, providing a better grip inside your shoes. This is a quick and easy solution that can be particularly effective during the hotter months.

Selecting the Right Shoes

Prevention is better than cure. When buying new shoes, pay close attention to the fit and design. Opt for shoes with adjustable features, like laces or straps, which allow you to customize the fit. 

Avoid designs that are known to cause slippage, such as backless shoes or those with overly stiff materials. Trying shoes on with the socks you plan to wear and testing them out by walking around the store can help you avoid purchasing ill-fitting shoes.

These practical solutions address the common causes of heel slippage and offer immediate improvements. By making small adjustments or taking proactive measures during purchase, you can reduce or eliminate this issue.

Proactive Measures When Buying Shoes

Importance of Proper Sizing

One of the simplest ways to prevent heel slippage is to choose the correct shoe size from the start. When shopping, always measure your feet to confirm your size. Remember, foot size can change over time due to factors like age and weight fluctuations. 

In Australia, shoe sizing can vary slightly between brands, so it’s important to try on multiple sizes if necessary. A properly sized shoe should feel snug in the heel but offer enough room in the toe box to avoid discomfort.

Australian Sizing Standards

Australian shoe sizes generally align with UK sizing, but it’s still essential to be aware of any differences when purchasing from international brands. Always check the brand’s specific size guide. 

This small step can prevent the frustration of dealing with shoes that are too large or too small, both of which contribute to heel slippage. Consider brands that offer half-sizes or wider fit options to accommodate your specific foot shape.

Testing Shoes Before Purchase

Never skip the in-store test. Walk around the store to check how the shoes feel during movement. Pay attention to any immediate signs of slippage, tightness, or discomfort. If you notice your heel lifting even slightly, it’s a sign that the shoe may not be the right fit. It’s better to spend a few extra minutes ensuring the shoes fit well rather than dealing with slippage later.

Return Policies and Exchanges

Finally, be mindful of the return and exchange policies of the store. Many Australian retailers offer flexible return policies, allowing you to return or exchange shoes if they don’t fit properly after a more extended wear test at home. 

Taking advantage of these policies gives you a safety net in case the shoes don’t perform as expected.

These proactive steps during the buying process can save you from the hassle of dealing with heel slippage later. By choosing the right size, understanding sizing standards, and testing the fit thoroughly, you can minimize the risk of encountering this issue.

Conclusion

Heel slippage is a common yet preventable issue that can cause significant discomfort. By understanding the underlying causes such as improper fit, specific foot shapes, and shoe design flaws you can take practical steps to address the problem. 

Whether it’s adjusting the fit with heel grips, choosing the right materials, or being more selective when purchasing new shoes, there are multiple strategies to keep your shoes firmly in place.