Why Do Vans Hurt The Back Of My Foot?
Over the past decade or two, Vans have become the go-to sneaker for many, and for good reason too. Not only do they go with many different clothing styles, but they are also very easy to wear – and look great at the same time. However, just like a lot of other footwear styles, Vans can cause the back of your foot to hurt. This is because the shoe and the heel of the foot create friction as you walk. This in turn will result in painful heels.
Over time, the friction will cause the topmost layer of your skin to scrape off. Eventually, fluid will begin to build up and a blister will be formed. This can be avoided by using the likes of plasters and other items to cushion the area. If this is something you are currently experiencing with your Vans or it’s something that you’d like to avoid, in this article, you will find many ways to stop your Vans from hurting the back of your foot.
Why Do Vans Hurt The Back Of Your Foot?
When you pick up a pair of Vans, you may notice that the materials are quite tough. Not only does this ensure that they are quality made shoes, but it can be troublesome on your feet during the initial stages of wearing them.
Vans use materials like suede and canvas to create their sneakers. At first, these fabrics may appear slightly uncomfortable due to being strong and tough. However, you will notice that over time they become easier on the feet.
Another reason why Vans shoes hurt your feet is wearing the wrong size. If you are wearing Vans that are a little smaller than you normally wear when it comes to footwear, then it may cause blisters or pain on the back of your feet.
Vans are generally labelled as true to size (TTS), however, you might find that the Slip-On might fit a little smaller. This allows them to stay on your feet due to the fact there are no ways to tighten them.
How Can You Stop Vans Hurting Your Heels?
If you find that your Vans are causing your heels to have blisters, then you may want to do something about it. If you don’t, then you will keep damaging the back of your heels and they will not have time to heal. Here are some tried-and-tested ways of protecting the back of your feet while wearing Vans:
Wear A Plaster
Applying a plaster to the back of your heel is an old-school way of protecting your feet from new shoes. They offer a really quick and easy solution to protecting the back of your heels. They are also readily available, and you can have some to hand wherever you go.
You might find that plaster are not as protective as something like heel liners, in the sense that they do not feel cushiony, but they will do a great job of helping you to avoid blisters and painful heels.
There are many specialised band-aids that have been created to protect your heels from blisters when wearing shoes. While they are not plasters, per se, it is a type of tape used in the prevention of heel blisters. Having said that, band-aids are much easier to purchase and do the same job of protecting the heels.
Use Petroleum Jelly
A really common way of protecting your heels from Vans is by using petroleum jelly. This is best used if you do not plan to wear socks, or if you have really thin socks on. It adds protection by minimising the impact of friction between your heels and the shoe. It allows the shoe to glide against the skin, but the skin has the benefit of protection which is in the form of petroleum jelly.
You will likely need to reapply the petroleum jelly throughout the day, especially if you plan to wear your shoes for quite a few hours. When this is the case, you might find that wearing a plaster will do a much better job.
Wear Thicker Socks
If you are wearing thin socks with your Vans, then there is a good chance that they are not giving you enough protection. You will soon find out when your socks get holes and your heels get blisters. Even though stylish socks can look great, your heels will thank you for wearing thicker socks.
Thicker socks will benefit all of your feet, and in turn, will also stretch out the shoes to make them extra comfortable. Vans also recommends that you wear thicker socks to stretch out the footwear to make them extra comfy. They will also become a personalised fit too, which will ensure your heels stop hurting.
Use Heel Liners
Heel liners are another good option for protecting your feet. They have been created to provide extra cushioning to the heel of the foot.This area often takes the brunt of new shoes. While you are breaking them in, you will want something to protect the back of your foot.
They also help to keep your feet inside the shoe. Sometimes when wearing the Vans slip-on style of footwear, your heel may come out of the shoe. Add in some heel liners and protect your heel while making sure your feet stay inside the Vans.
Final Thoughts
There’s no doubt in any sneakerhead’s mind that Vans make some really cool shoes, so it makes sense that you want to wear them. However, just like with a lot of footwear, Vans might hurt the back of your foot. When you first wear them you will need to break them in. Wearing a plaster or thicker socks can stop your heels from getting blisters.
Where to buy Vans?
If you’re looking for a fresh pair of Vans, we recommend shopping the following retailers:
