Overview
- Slippery heels are caused by various factors, such as smooth or worn-out soles, moist or oily feet, or improper fit.
- To fix slippery heels, you can try different methods depending on the type and condition of your shoes and feet.
- Some of the methods include scuffing the soles on abrasive surfaces, using sandpaper or nail file, applying glue, salt, or sand, using hairspray, talcum powder, or anti-slip pads, and choosing shoes with straps or closed toes.
- These tips can help you improve your traction and stability when wearing heels, as well as prevent accidents and injuries.
How to fix slippery heels
- Break in new soles If your slippery heels are a new pair, they may be slippery because their soles are perfectly smooth and unworn. To fix this, you need to break in the new soles by wearing them down somewhat. This will create some texture and abrasions on the soles that will help them grip the floor better. To do this, you can walk around on rough surfaces like concrete, gravel, rocks, metal grates, etc. You can also take off your shoes and scuff their soles on the ground with your hands.
- Use sandpaper or nail file If you don’t have access to rough surfaces or you want a quicker solution, you can use sandpaper or nail file to abrade the soles directly. This will also create some roughness and texture on the soles that will improve your traction. To do this, you need to take off your shoes and rub the smoothest parts of the sole that touch the floor with sandpaper or nail file until they feel less slippery. For this task, a coarse sandpaper or file is best. However, this method may not work on some soles that have a natural or cardboard-like texture
- Apply glue, salt, or sand Another permanent fix that you can use on your slippery heels is to apply a small amount of glue to the bottom of your heel, followed by salt or sand. The glue will help with the sand or salt to adhere to the shoe, which creates an abrasive surface that will keep you from slipping all over the place. To do this, you need to squeeze some glue onto the sole of your heel and spread it evenly with a toothpick or a cotton swab. Then sprinkle some salt or sand over the glue and press it gently with your fingers. Let it dry completely before wearing your shoes
- Use hairspray Another temporary and cheap fix for slippery heels is hairspray. Hairspray can make your soles sticky and tacky, which can help them grip the floor better. To do this, you need to spray some hairspray onto the soles of your shoes until they feel sticky. Usually about a 10-15 second spray hold is enough. Then wait for the soles to dry before walking in them. Keep in mind that this solution is temporary and will require re-application. In addition, hairspray may rinse off in wet weather
- Use talcum powder If your feet sweat often or you use lotions or skin treatments on your feet, they may become moist or oily over time. This can make your feet slide down into the toes of your shoes, leaving lots of space in your heel and making them slip off easily. To fix this, you can use talcum powder to dry out your feet and prevent them from sliding inside your shoes. To do this, you need to sprinkle some talcum powder on your feet or inside your shoes before putting them.
- Use anti-slip pads If you don’t want to alter the soles of your shoes or your feet, you can use anti-slip pads that stick to the inside of your shoes. These pads are usually made of rubber, foam, or gel, and they provide extra cushioning and friction for your feet. They can also help with adjusting the fit of your shoes if they are too big or loose. To use them, you need to peel off the backing and stick them to the inside of your shoes, either at the heel or the ball of your foot. You can find anti-slip pads at most shoe stores or online.
- Choose shoes with straps or closed toes Another way to fix slippery heels is to choose shoes that have features that prevent your feet from sliding out of them. For example, shoes with straps, such as ankle straps, T-straps, or Mary Janes, can help keep your foot firmly in place and reduce the risk of slipping. Shoes with closed toes can also prevent your toes from sliding down and poking out of your shoes, which can leave a lot of space in your heel. These types of shoes can also provide more support and stability for your feet when wearing heels.
- Know what to avoid Finally, some things can make your heels more slippery and should be avoided. For example, avoid wearing heels on wet or slippery surfaces, such as marble floors, polished wood floors, or icy sidewalks. These surfaces can reduce your traction and cause you to slip and fall. Also, avoid wearing heels that are too high or too narrow for you, as they can make you lose your balance and stability. Choose heels that are comfortable and suitable for your foot shape and size.
FAQs
Q: How do I know if my heels are slippery?
A: One way to test if your heels are slippery is to rub them against a carpet or a towel. If they glide smoothly without any resistance, they are likely slippery. Another way is to try walking in them on different surfaces and see how they feel. If you feel like you are sliding or wobbling, they are probably slippery.
Q: How do I prevent my heels from getting slippery?
A: One way to prevent your heels from getting slippery is to maintain them regularly. You can clean them with a damp cloth and dry them thoroughly before storing them. You can also check the soles for any signs of wear and tear and replace them if needed. You can also apply some protective spray or wax to the soles to keep them from getting smooth.
Q: How do I fix slippery heels without damaging them?
A: One way to fix slippery heels without damaging them is to use temporary solutions that don’t alter the soles of your shoes permanently. For example, you can use hairspray, talcum powder, or anti-slip pads to improve your grip temporarily. These methods are easy to apply and remove and won’t harm your shoes.
Conclusion
Slippery heels can be a nuisance and a hazard for anyone who loves wearing high heels. They can cause you to slip, fall, or injure yourself, as well as ruin your confidence and style. However, there are some easy and effective ways to fix slippery heels and make them more secure and comfortable. By following these 8 tips on how to fix slippery heels, you can enjoy wearing your favorite pair of heels without worrying about slipping.