A new analysis has found that global online searches for blisters and relief options have reached an all time high amid rising interest in flip-flops and sandals.
Experts at women’s footwear retailer Dream Pairs analysed Google Trends data and found that global searches for “sandals” have increased by 359%, while searches for “flip-flops” have risen by 190%, with both reaching record highs this summer compared with their respective average interest levels since tracking began more than 20 years ago.
The surge in interest in summer footwear coincides with record levels of searches for blister prevention. Worldwide searches for “how to prevent blisters” have increased by 116%, while “how to stop blisters” has risen by 172%, with both reaching all time highs.
As more people search for ways to prevent and relieve blisters, Anson Shen, CMO at Dream Pairs, has shared top tips for choosing the perfect shoes.
Check the strap fit
A common concern for flip-flop wearers is the risk of blisters developing beneath the top and side straps, particularly when the shoes are too tight. To check the fit, wearers should be able to slide the tip of a finger between the strap and the top of the foot. If there is not enough room, the shoe is too tight, while a large gap indicates it is too loose. Both can increase the risk of blisters.
A simple way to check the strap tension is to see whether a £1 coin fits flat underneath it. This provides roughly the optimal amount of space for a comfortable fit.
Make sure the sole matches the foot
When wearing sandals or flip-flops, the entire foot should sit within the edges of the sole. The heel, toes, and sides of the foot should not extend beyond it. There should be around 0.5cm–1cm of sole visible on each side of the foot. A larger gap can make the footwear feel unstable, affect the natural walking motion, or cause rubbing as the foot moves excessively inside the shoe.
Avoid gripping with the toes
Contrary to what many people believe, wearers should not need to grip the sole of their flip-flops with their toes to keep them on while walking. Some natural flexing and gripping can occur, but excessive gripping can cause fatigue and aches by placing additional strain on the foot muscles.
If this happens, wearers should first check that their footwear is not too large. Choosing shoes with arch support or back straps can also provide greater security and reduce the need to grip with the toes.
Use a hairdryer to mould stiffer sandals
For sandals made from stiffer materials, the shoe may be the correct size but still need some shaping to maximise comfort. If the overall fit is right but the sandals cause rubbing after prolonged wear, a simple trick can help.
Wearers can put on a pair of thick socks, or double up, before putting on the sandals. Using a hairdryer on a medium heat setting, gently warm the material for up to 30 seconds, moving the dryer methodically and taking care not to damage the shoe. While the material is still warm, walk around in the sandals and flex the feet before they cool to help mould the fit. This technique is particularly effective with natural materials such as real leather.
Prepare feet before heading out
Those who are particularly prone to blisters can take steps to reduce the risk before wearing sandals or flip-flops. Applying anti chafe balm or stick antiperspirant to the soles of the feet or between the toes can help reduce sweating, which can increase friction and the likelihood of rubbing.
This can be especially useful with sandals made from plastic or leather like materials, which can create more friction than softer fabrics. Specialised foot powders may also help prevent blisters from forming.
For existing blisters, wearers should use blister patches and moisture wicking socks until the skin has healed, helping to protect the affected area and prevent the blisters from worsening.