4 Tips to Make New High Heels More Comfortable Before Wearing Them Out
A new pair of high heels can be a great addition to your wardrobe, but the excitement can quickly fade if they cause discomfort. Many people experience pain or blisters after wearing high heels for the first time. However, with the right approach, you can break in your heels and ensure they feel more comfortable before wearing them for an extended period. Some brands, like comfortable high heels from Antonia Saint NY, are designed with extra support, but there are also practical steps you can take to improve the fit and feel of any new pair. This article provides practical tips to help you adjust to your new heels and enjoy them without discomfort.
1. Gradually Break Them In
Wearing new high heels for a long time with no prep often makes your feet hurt. Instead of using them all day, try them on for short bits in your home first. This lets the shoes get soft and fit your feet better without too much pressure.
A good way is to wear them for about 15–30 minutes each time, then slowly add more time. You can also put on socks while you wear them in to help make the shoes a bit wider. This trick works well for heels made of hard stuff like patent leather, which takes longer to get soft. By slowly starting to use your heels, you help your feet get used to them and stop bad blisters or pain.
2. Use Cushions and Insoles for Extra Support
High heels often lack sufficient cushioning, which can lead to foot pain. Adding gel inserts or padded insoles can significantly improve comfort by reducing pressure on the balls of your feet and providing better arch support.
There are different types of insoles available, including full-foot cushions, heel grips, and metatarsal pads. Selecting the right type depends on your specific comfort needs. Heel grips, for instance, can prevent slipping, while forefoot pads help distribute weight more evenly. Using these accessories can make a noticeable difference, especially when wearing high heels for long hours.
3. Stretch Your Heels for a Better Fit
Tight heels can cause discomfort, especially around the toes and sides of your feet. If your new heels feel too snug, there are several stretching techniques you can try to improve the fit.
One common method is using a shoe stretcher, which gradually expands the material without damaging the shoe’s structure. Another technique is the freezer method: fill two plastic bags with water, place them inside the shoes, and leave them in the freezer overnight. As the water freezes, it expands, gently stretching the material.
For a quicker solution, wear thick socks while walking around in your heels. The added thickness will help stretch the material slightly, making the shoes more comfortable over time. These techniques can be particularly helpful for leather heels, which tend to be more adaptable to stretching.
4. Improve Stability with Non-Slip Pads
Many new high heels have smooth soles that can make walking challenging, especially on slippery surfaces. To enhance stability and prevent slipping, consider adding non-slip pads to the soles of your heels.
Non-slip pads provide better traction, reducing the risk of falls and improving overall confidence while walking in heels. If you do not have specialized pads, a quick alternative is to gently scuff the soles with sandpaper or walk on a rough surface, like concrete, to create more grip. This simple adjustment can make a significant difference in comfort and safety, particularly when wearing heels in outdoor or polished indoor environments.
Conclusion
Breaking into new high heels does not have to be a painful experience. By gradually adjusting to them, using cushioned insoles, stretching them for a better fit, and adding non-slip pads, you can significantly improve comfort and stability. Taking these small but effective steps will help you enjoy your heels without discomfort, making them a stylish and practical choice for any occasion. With the right preparation, even new heels can feel comfortable and easy to wear.