Many things in life are ambiguous or subjective, at best, but some are unmistakably certain – like the fact that uncomfortable shoes can directly affect your daily routine and your mood by causing a host of issues, from foot problems to leg and back pain.
Wondering how to make shoes more comfortable and avoid these issues altogether? We’ve got you.
Understanding shoe comfort: what makes shoes uncomfortable?
Before discussing how to make shoes more comfortable, it’s important to understand the reasons your shoes are uncomfortable.
Here are the most common culprits:
-
Poor fit
Shoes that are too narrow or too short don’t just make your feet feel bad, they can also lead to bunions, hammertoes, and calluses. Wearing the wrong size for too long can also cause chronic foot pain and even structural issues [1]..
-
Lack of support
The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, connecting your heel to your toes. It helps support the arch of your foot and absorbs some of the pressure when you walk. For those experiencing foot pain from standing all day, proper arch support is crucial. If your shoes don’t support your arch properly, your feet - especially the plantar fascia - have to work overtime, potentially irritating and overstretching it: a painful condition called plantar fasciitis.
Without the right support, your feet may also overpronate (excessive inward rolling) or supinate (excessive outward rolling), misaligning and causing pain in your ankles, knees, and even your lower back.
-
Not enough cushioning
Shoes that don’t offer enough padding cannot absorb impact as you walk or run, and this puts a lot of pressure on your heels and forefoot, and all the way up to your back. Over time, this can cause heel pain and a long list of foot conditions.
-
Stiff materials
When your shoes, especially the soles, aren’t flexible enough to bend where your foot moves naturally as you walk, you might be in for some serious discomfort. Stiff materials create friction, leading to blisters, irritation, and pain, especially in areas that carry most of the stress as you walk, like your heels and toes.
-
Existing foot conditions
If you already have issues like plantar fasciitis, bunions, or diabetic neuropathy, the wrong shoes can make things a lot worse. Shoes that don’t accommodate your foot condition can increase pain, worsen inflammation, and even lead to other foot problems. Switching to men’s shoes for foot pain or women's shoes for foot pain can help alleviate these symptoms and provide much-needed relief.
For example, research has shown that footwear interventions can reduce foot pain, impairment, and disability in people with rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and 1st metatarsophalangeal joint osteoarthritis. These interventions can also improve walking velocity and reduce plantar pressure in those conditions [2].
But, there’s also good news: small changes - like choosing orthopedic shoes or sandals with proper support, enough cushioning, and the right width for a precise fit [3] - can make a huge difference.
And now, it’s time for the main event: our expert tips on how to make shoes more comfortable.
6 simple hacks to make any shoe more comfortable
Here are 6 easy ways that effectively tackle the ‘how to make shoes more comfortable’ issue.
#1 Ensure the correct shoe size
Wearing the wrong shoe size is one of the most common reasons people experience foot pain and discomfort. If you’re wondering how should shoes fit, they should feel snug but not tight, with enough room for your toes to move freely.
If your shoes are too tight or too loose, they can cause blisters, pinched toes, and other issues that cause foot pain. That’s why getting the right size is essential, and by size we mean both length and width.
Dr. Steven Gershman, DPM, explains that “If the shoe size you are wearing is too narrow you will see and feel some telltale signs. Your shoes will feel too tight, especially around your toes and forefoot. You might even feel your small toe rubbing against the inside of the shoe or pinching the side. This can cause pain, corns, calluses, and eventually lead to bone spurs.”
Dr. Gershman adds that “when the shoe is too narrow, the toes can be jammed together, and your outer foot may bulge out over the outsole of the shoe.” Ideally, your foot should fit easily inside the shoe with no bulging or tight spots. That’s when you know your shoes fit correctly. For those with wider feet, wide-width shoes are a great solution to avoid discomfort.
Here’s a quick guide on how to measure your foot properly:
-
Measure your feet at the end of the day when they’re at their largest, as feet typically swell throughout the day.
-
Use a ruler or a measuring tape to measure the length from the heel to the tip of your longest toe.
-
Measure the width at the widest part of your foot.
-
Check both feet, as most people have one foot that’s slightly larger than the other. Go with the bigger size.
Foot size can change over time, so it’s important to measure regularly, especially as you get older or if you notice discomfort. To get the right fit, understanding how to tell if you have wide feet is key.
#2 Select the right insoles for extra cushioning
Insoles are an ingeniously simple solution to add extra comfort and support to your shoes. Whether you're dealing with foot pain or just want to improve your day-to-day comfort, the right insole can provide the cushioning, arch support, and pressure relief that keep your feet feeling good and healthy. If you have foot problems like plantar fasciitis or flat feet, orthopedic insoles are especially recommended to manage your condition and improve foot health.
Finding the right insole may be a bit tricky, because there are many options out there. Here’s what your insoles should offer:
-
Optimal arch support
Insoles should be designed to support the natural arch of your foot, helping to alleviate strain on the plantar fascia and reduce the risk of foot pain, like plantar fasciitis or heel pain.
-
Contoured heel
A contoured heel ensures even pressure distribution, minimizing strain on the heel area and providing better overall comfort.
-
Excellent shock absorption
Look for insoles that are structured with multiple layers of cushioning. This allows them to absorb shock and reduce stress on your feet, which is especially important when walking or standing for long periods.
-
Moisture-wicking properties
This design feature helps keep your feet dry and comfortable, preventing odors, chafing, and blisters by wicking away moisture.
-
Adjustability
It’s best to choose insoles that offer flexibility and adjustability to accommodate different foot arch heights and fit a variety of foot shapes and types.
-
Durability and comfort
Insoles designed to withstand heavy use can offer long-lasting comfort without losing their shape or cushioning.
Here at Orthofeet, we design insoles that support, cushion and align your feet and legs. Each insole combines advanced cushioning technology and targeted arch and heel support, giving you a stable foundation that relieves pain and promotes healthy movement. Our insoles are designed to easily fit any shoe type.
#3 Opt for quality, breathable socks
This may surprise you, but the right pair of comfort socks can make a huge difference in how your shoes feel, preventing blisters, irritation, and even helping with foot fatigue. Moisture-wicking, padded, or seamless socks can add another layer of support and care. Here's how these features help:
-
Moisture-wicking: Socks made from moisture-wicking materials help draw sweat away from your feet, preventing it from building up and causing discomfort, blisters, or odors.
-
Padded socks: Extra cushioning around the heel and ball of your foot can further protect, reduce pressure and provide comfort, especially when you're on your feet for long hours each day.
-
Seamless construction: Seams can rub against your skin, causing irritation. Seamless socks eliminate this friction, giving your feet a smoother, more comfortable fit.
Materials and sock type are also important. Here are a few styles that stand out:
-
Cotton blends: Cotton is soft and breathable, making it a great option for casual wear. Blended with other materials like polyester, it also helps wick moisture away, keeping your feet dry.
-
Bamboo: Bamboo fibers are naturally soft, breathable, and moisture-wicking.
-
Compression socks: These socks apply gentle pressure, helping to improve circulation and reduce swelling.
4 Customize lacing for a better fit
Did you know that the way you lace your shoes can really affect how they feel? Adjusting your lacing technique can help relieve pressure points, improve arch support, and even make room for wider feet.
Here are a few simple lacing techniques for more comfortable shoes:
-
Pressure relief for sore spots: skip lacing technique
If you have a pressure point on the top of your foot (often caused by tight shoes), try the skip lacing technique. Skip every other eyelet near the sore spot to create a bit more space. This reduces direct pressure on the area, giving your feet a break.
-
Improved arch support: heel lock technique
For better support around the arch, use the heel lock or runner’s loop technique. Lace your shoes as usual, but before tying them, pass the laces through the top eyelets to create a small loop on each side. Then pull the laces through these loops and tie them tightly. This technique locks your heel in place and can give your arches some extra stability.
-
A roomier toe box: parallel lacing method
If your feet need more room in the toe box, try parallel lacing. Thread each lace straight across to the opposite side instead of crossing over. Start by lacing from the bottom eyelets, then continue threading the laces straight across to the next eyelets, keeping them parallel. This method keeps the laces flat across the shoe, allowing more space for your feet to spread out comfortably.
#5 Add padding to problem areas
If you’re dealing with friction or pressure points, it makes sense that adding a bit of extra padding will help make your shoes more comfortable. Here are a few options to consider:
-
Moleskin: This soft, cushioned material is perfect for protecting areas prone to blisters. It sticks well to your skin or the inside of your shoe, offering protection against rubbing.
-
Gel inserts: These provide extra cushioning, especially in high-pressure areas like the heel or ball of your foot. They're great for absorbing shock and reducing pain.
-
Heel grips: If your shoes slip at the heel, you can use heel grips as an easy fix. They prevent your feet from sliding around, reducing friction and preventing blisters.
#6 Stretch out tight spots
Wondering how to break in shoes? If you’ve already bought a pair of shoes that feel too tight in certain areas and you love them too much to replace them with a better fitting pair, there are a few methods you can try to loosen things up and help make your shoes comfortable. Here's how you can stretch out those tight spots:
-
Shoe stretcher
This handy tool is designed to stretch out tight spots in your shoes. You simply insert it into the shoe and adjust it to apply gentle pressure. It’s most helpful for adding room in the toe box or widening the shoe.
-
Thick socks and heat
For a quick and easy stretch, try wearing thick socks and putting your shoes on. Then, use a hair dryer on the tight area for a few minutes to soften the material. Walk around a bit while the shoes cool to help them stretch slightly.
-
Consider the materials
For leather shoes, applying heat is often the best method to loosen them. Leather responds well to heat, which makes it more pliable. On the other hand, synthetic materials may not stretch as easily, so using a shoe stretcher or simply wearing them around the house with thick socks can work better for those.
Orthofeet shoes - designed for comfort
Here at Orthofeet we specialize in ergonomic, orthopedic footwear designed for all-day comfort and support. Every pair is built with innovative features that help reduce foot fatigue, relieve pressure, and provide a comfortable fit for a variety of foot needs.
-
Premium cushioning absorbs impact and reduces strain on your feet, helping you stay comfortable even after long hours of wear.
-
Built-in orthotic insoles offer targeted arch support and cushioning to promote proper alignment and reduce pressure on sensitive areas.
-
Extra depth and spacious toe box accommodate swelling and foot conditions like bunions or hammertoes, allowing your feet to move naturally.
-
Seam-free interiors minimize friction and irritation, making them a great option if you are wondering what to wear for sensitive feet.
-
Stretchable uppers conform to each unique foot shape and adapt to changes throughout the day, ensuring a comfortable fit without feeling restrictive.
-
Breathable materials improve airflow to help keep feet cool, reduce moisture buildup, and support overall foot health.
From sneakers to slippers, work boots to hiking shoes, dress shoes to casual footwear, and any other shoe you may need. Orthofeet combines smart design with next-level comfort in each and every shoe. Try a pair - you’ll feel the difference.
==========================
[1] Andrew K Buldt, Hylton B Menz. Incorrectly Fitted Footwear, Foot Pain and Foot Disorders: A Systematic Search and Narrative Review of the Literature. PubMed. July 28, 2018. Accessed February 19, 2025. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30065787/
[2] Mike Frecklington, Nicola Dalbeth, Peter McNair, Peter Gow, Anita Williams, Matthew Carroll, Keith Rome. Footwear Interventions for Foot Pain, Function, Impairment and Disability for People with Foot and Ankle Arthritis: A Literature Review. PubMed. June, 2018. Accessed February 19, 2025. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29174793/
[3] Moira McRitchie, Helen Branthwaite, Nachiappan Chockalingam. Footwear Choices for Painful Feet – an Observational Study Exploring Footwear and Foot Problems in Women. PubMed. May 31, 2018. Accessed February 19, 2025. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5984451/