New shoes can elevate your look—but they can also hurt your feet if you’re not careful. Whether you’re slipping into fresh slippers for men, stepping out in stylish sliders for men, or gearing up for a sunny day in sandals for men, break-in discomfort is a common hurdle. One of the most frequent pain points? The heel area.

At Nostrain, comfort is part of our DNA, and we’re here to help you avoid the blister blues. Here’s how you can break in your new footwear while keeping your heels happy.

Why the Heel Counter (and Fit) Matters

The heel counter—the firm back portion of many shoes and sandals—is essential for structure and support. But when it’s too stiff or rigid, it can dig into your skin and cause friction. This can lead to those dreaded hot spots and blisters, especially during the first few wears.

Whether you're walking around the house in Nostrain slippers for men or heading out in our sliders for men, a little prep work can go a long way.

How to Soften Footwear for a Better Fit

1. Pinpoint the Problem Zones

Feel inside the heel area of your footwear. Is there a particularly hard or unyielding section? That’s the part you want to soften.

2. Manual Massage Method

Use your thumbs to press and rub the back area of the shoe in circular motions. Apply consistent pressure for a few minutes. If your hands get tired, try using a rounded object like the back of a spoon wrapped in a soft cloth.

3. Add Gentle Heat

Want to speed things up? Use a hairdryer on low heat for 20–30 seconds while massaging the heel. Be careful not to overheat the material—especially on leather or synthetic blends. This trick works well with our Nostrain sandals for men, which mold quickly with heat and wear.

4. Repeat as Needed

Some materials—especially high-quality leather—take time. Repeat the massage and heat treatment over a couple of days until the stiffness eases.

Bonus Tips to Prevent Blisters

• Use Heel Pads or Bandages

• If you're trying out your new slippers for men indoors, use soft heel liners or padded bandages for the first few wears to create a barrier between your skin and the shoe.

• Wear the Right Socks

Thick socks can help cushion your heel and reduce friction. This is especially useful when breaking in sliders for men during cooler months.

• Ensure a Proper Fit

A well-fitting shoe should hold your foot snugly without squeezing or slipping. If your Nostrain sandals for men feel too loose or tight, adjust the straps or sizing accordingly.

Walk in Comfort with Nostrain

At Nostrain, we believe you shouldn’t have to choose between style and comfort. Our entire collection—from ultra-soft slippers for women to ergonomic sliders for men and supportive sandals for men—is designed with all-day wear in mind. Still, every foot is unique, so giving your footwear a little extra care before wearing it out is always a smart move.

Want more comfort tips and product care hacks? Check out our other posts and explore the full Nostrain collection for premium footwear that fits your life perfectly.