Protect friction points with pads or balm

Cushion the areas where new shoes rub against your skin so you can wear them during the break-in period without damaging your feet. Moleskin, blister pads, and anti-chafe balms create a protective barrier that absorbs friction.

Steps

1. Identify hot spots: Wear the shoes briefly and note where they rub — typically the heel, sides of the toes, or ball of the foot.
2. Apply protection: Stick moleskin or hydrocolloid blister pads directly onto friction-prone skin. Cut moleskin about 1 cm larger than the irritated area for full coverage.
3. Use anti-chafe balm: Rub a thin layer of anti-chafing stick (such as Body Glide or a clear solid deodorant) on friction points. The wax-based barrier reduces shear force on skin by up to 40%.

Tips

• Moleskin outlasts adhesive bandages — it stays put through a full day of walking
• Hydrocolloid pads (like Compeed) both prevent and heal blisters by maintaining a moist wound environment
• Replace pads daily until shoes are fully broken in, typically 1-2 weeks