Excited about your new shoes but not so excited about the chafing, blisters and slippery sole that often comes with them? It’s time to face your new shoes with an arsenal of preventative measures, nipping those Blisters and Co. in the bud.

Prevent Blisters

Use Moleskin instead of bandages. Bandages are difficult to hide, are only semi-flexible and have a relatively unreliable adhesive life. Replace them with moleskin, a cotton material that has an adhesive backing. Moleskin molds to the shape of your feet, so place it on your problem spots before heading out the door. Why use bandages when you’re taking preventative measures anyway? Counting from your big toe, tape your third and fourth toes together to avoid pain in pointed-toe shoes. This will create more wiggle room in shoes with a narrow front. Rub petroleum jelly, deodorant or baby powder on the heel of your foot to shield from chafing and forming blisters on your heel.

Break Them In D.I.Y.

Boot shafts too tight? Stretch them out by applying rubbing alcohol to the inside of the shafts. Then put on socks and wear the boots for approximately 30 minutes. Blow dry a pair of socks for two minutes, then put them on with your new shoes and wear them around the house for 30 to 45 minutes. You’ll break them in and get a feel for the shoes before your night out. Stretch the front of your shoe by placing a plastic bag full of water in the toe and putting it in the freezer overnight. You’ll have a more comfortable space for your toes the next day.

Avoid Slips and Falls

Use sandpaper to lightly scratch the bottom of your shoes. This will make it easier for your shoes to grip the ground as you walk, stand or even dance. Safety first! Hate when your shoe comes off while walking? Or when your foot seems to slide back and forth in that new pair of heels? Use insoles to keep your feet and shoes in place. You can even make easy D.I.Y. innersoles, but remember to use a thicker non-silky fabric.

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