How to Break in New Sandals Without Getting Blisters

There is nothing worse than finding the perfect pair of sandals in just the right color and just the right height, only to wear them once and end up with aching feet or a band-aid on every toe. I have been there more times than I can count. Blisters can turn a fun day into a painful one real quick, especially when you are on vacation or spending time outside in the summer heat.

The good news is you do not have to suffer, gurls! With a little prep work and a few smart tricks, you can break in your new sandals and enjoy all the style without the sore spots. Here is what works for me and what might just save your feet, too.

Why Your Sandals are Giving You Blisters

Sandals and really any new shoes can cause blisters because the material is still stiff and has not had time to mold to your feet. Add in a little heat and friction, and your skin is not going to be happy. Sandals also leave more of your foot exposed, so there is less protection where the straps hit. That means more rubbing and more risk of blisters.

Tips to Break In New Sandals

Wear Them Around the House First

Before you head out the door for a full day in new sandals, give them a little trial run at home. I put on a pair of thick socks and wear the sandals like that. It looks ridiculous, I know, but who cares? You’re stretching out those straps and softening things up without tearing up your feet. Try it for thirty minutes to an hour a day for a few days, and you’ll be shocked at how much better they feel.

If they still feel stiff, I’ll grab the hairdryer. I put on socks, slip into the sandals, and hit them with medium heat for about thirty seconds while wiggling my feet around. That little bit of heat helps loosen up tight spots without damaging the shoe. Just don’t get crazy with it.

Fight the Friction

If there’s one thing I always have on hand during sandal season, it’s an anti-chafe stick. There are so many good ones out there now, and they make a huge difference.

Before you head out the door, swipe a little on the places that usually rub, like your pinky toe, the back of your heel, or across the top of your foot. It helps cut down on friction, so those straps don’t leave a mark.

If a pair of sandals has stitching or seams that dig in, I’ll take a strip of moleskin and stick it right where it bothers me. You can trim it to fit, and nobody will even know it’s there. You can also grab some clear gel pads for the heel or ball of your foot if the sole feels too hard.

Stretch Them the Smart Way

Sometimes the sandal just needs a little more give, and you can help it along. If you’ve got a leather pair that’s feeling too snug, try rubbing a little leather conditioner on the inside of the straps. It helps soften things up and makes them more flexible.

You can also try the freezer bag trick. Fill a small plastic bag with water, seal it tightly, and place it inside the sandal. Then pop the whole thing in the freezer overnight. As the water expands, it gently stretches the straps. Just make sure your sandals aren’t made from a material that’ll get ruined by moisture.

If you’re really struggling, a shoe stretcher might be worth looking into. They’re especially helpful if you have wide feet or a high arch.

Ease Into Your New Shoes

Don’t go out and wear your brand-new sandals for a full day. That’s asking for trouble. Start slow.

Give your feet time to adjust. If you’re going to be out longer, toss a pair of backup shoes in your bag. I’ve done that more times than I can count, and it’s saved me from having to walk barefoot through a parking lot. Don’t laugh. I know I’m not the only one.

If it’s going to be hot and humid, skip the sandals and give them another day to break in. When your feet swell, shoes always feel tighter. I try to break in new sandals in the evening when it’s cooler or on days when I won’t be doing much walking.

Sometimes They’re Just Not Worth It

Here’s the deal, gurls. Not every sandal is going to work out. If you’ve tried everything and they’re still cutting into your feet or leaving blisters, it might be time to let them go.

I’ve had a few pairs that were beautiful but just weren’t meant to be. If the straps are digging into your skin no matter what you do, or you’re constantly getting blisters in the same spot, it’s not your fault. That sandal just isn’t right for your foot.

Breaking In Sandal FAQs

How long does it take to break in sandals?
It depends on the material and how often you wear them. Some feel great after a day or two of walking around the house. Others might take a week of wearing them on and off before they stop rubbing.

Can I use Vaseline to prevent blisters?
You can, but I prefer the anti-chafe sticks because they’re not as greasy. Vaseline will work in a pinch, though.

Should I size up to avoid blisters?
No. A sandal that’s too big can actually cause more problems because your foot slides around more. The right fit should be snug but not tight, and the straps shouldn’t dig in.

What if I already have a blister?
Cover it with a blister bandage and let it heal before wearing those sandals again. Don’t try to push through the pain. It will just make things worse.

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Do you gurls have any other tricks or tips for breaking in a new pair of sandals??

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Matthew 7:1-2 (NIV)
¹“Do not judge, or you too will be judged. ² For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.