What use is a fantastic pair of shoes when they don’t fit properly?
As Cinderella discovered, shoes need to fit properly otherwise they come clean off.
Heels are typically the culprits, as they are worn without socks and position the foot high - meaning they are primed for slipping and sliding all over the place.
The same can be said for ballet flats, which have claimed the shoewear spotlight this year. When the fit is a touch too big, you can expect blisters, rubbing and all forms of discomfort while strolling.
The easiest solution is to bag yourself a pair of heel grips. The handy products are fairly self-explanatory. They are attached to the inside of the heel of the shoe and grip your foot. No sores to be seen here.
Leather options are traditional, but vegan alternatives made from polyester and sponge will also get the job done. Apply the adhesive strips to the inner back of the shoe, be it a ballet pump or brogue, and be on your merry way. It’s that simple.
It’s worth noting that if you’re using heel grips to adjust a pair of shoes you wear religiously, it’s prudent to buy multiple packs. They aren’t known to last particularly long with extensive wear, and you certainly don’t want to find yourself stranded and gripless in the middle of London. Having a spare on your person is most wise.
Brands like Scholl, VivoFoot and even L.K. Bennett (for those wanting the chicest of heel grips) stock inexpensive options to add to your online shopping bag in bulk.
Ensure your summer shoewear is primed for perfection with a heel grip duo and step out in blister-free confidence this season.
Shop now
L.K. Bennett Leather Heel Grips
Ensure your heel grips are as sophisticated as your heels with L.K. Bennett. The brand (which is beloved by the royals) is stocking a pair of luxurious heel grips, made from leather featuring an adhesive back in limited and planet-friendly paper packaging.
Buy now £5.00, L.K. Bennett
Scholl Party Feet Heel Shields
Be the life and sole (couldn’t resist) of the party with Scholl. The brand’s soiree-ready heel grips are primed for pumps and feature non-slip technology and a soft, gel construction. Slip the subtle design in the heel of your shoe and dance the night away.
Buy now £5.60, Ocado
Office Gel Heel Grips
Another gel option, Office’s heel grips are to be kept close by at all times. An adhesive back and clear construction make for a useless addition to your handbag when sores start to appear.
Buy now £3.25, Office
Sibba 2 Pair Heel Cushion Pads
Available in black and nude colourways, Sibba’s two-pack pair of heel grips are both soft and durable. Crafted from high-quality sponge and fabric, the pads offer cushioning of the heel, making running, walking and most importantly dancing akin to floating on air.
Buy now £4.49, Amazon
VivoFoot 4 PCs Anti-Slip Heel Grips
An Amazon best-seller, VivoFoot’s heel grips are beloved by those on the run. The inserts offer heel cushioning and blister prevention for those on their feet all day. Available to purchase in beige or black depending on the colour of the shoes giving you grief, these stick-on comrades are made with strong adhesive backings to help seal your shoe to your heel.
Buy now £5.99, Amazon
ZHIHUITL 3 Pairs Heel Pads
Want more than a simple grip? Opt for a divinely cushioned heel pad to provide comfort and stability with every step. This monochrome extreme pack is perfect for when the backs of trainers give out but you can’t bear to part with them. Suitable for bigger shoes such as sneakers and boots rather than heels, the non-slip picks are set to become your new best friend.
Buy now £3.50, Amazon
Vegetarian Shoes Heel Grip
Herbivores, never fear. Vegan options are up for grabs, like these heel grips by Vegetarian Shoes. Constructed from synthetic, breathable suede, the natural-looking grips come in self-adhesive pairs that reduce heel chafing. Suitable for all shoe styles from boots to flats.
Buy now £7.49, Trouva
VivoFoot 2 Pairs Gel Heel Protectors
Craving full coverage? Treat your feet with VivoFoots all-over heel protectors which come in a three or four pack depending on your choosing. They provide total protection across the length of your foot, which is ideal if wearing heavy-duty boots for work, walking or hiking. The long-lasting design features soft and breathable gel that keeps your heels hydrated and remedies cracked skin. The stretch of the gel further alleviates heel pains caused by heel spurs, plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis.
Buy now £8.99, Amazon
Timpson Real Suede Shoe Heel Grips
Timpson is known to get the job done. The brand specialises in all things shoecare, so it comes as little surprise that heel grips are on the agenda. These heel heroes are made from super soft suede which gently holds the heel as you meander. They not only prevent slippage and sores, but the grips offer a neat fit in the shoe and alleviate friction between it and your skin.
Buy now £4.50, Timpson
