Outdoor Blog

How to Fix / Prevent Heel Slippage in Boots

Published

3 years ago

June 22, 2021

New boots can be a blessing and a curse. All hikers are familiar with the process.

You get a new pair of hiking boots, they feel awful for a bit, maybe give you blisters, and before you know it, they’re your favorite pair of boots. The bad news is that discomfort and adjustment are part of the natural hiking boot cycle. The good news is that there’s a lot you can do to make the process of breaking in hiking boots easier.

Insoles can help prevent the development of foot disorders such as plantar fasciitis.

Parts of a Boot

Before we get started, however, it’s important to know some basic boot parts so you can orient yourself. Boots are not all that complicated, but you may not realize just how many of these pieces can contribute to heel slippage! Here are some of the boot parts we’ll be discussing:

Insoles: The insole is the soft, internal part of the shoe where your foot rests. Properly fitted and shaped insoles are essential to a good fit. Many hikers and runners use additional insertable insoles to boost arch support, add cushion, and more.
Tongue: The flap on top of the shoe or boot that goes underneath the laces. A worn-out tongue is an often-overlooked cause of heel slippage. If your boots are old, you may need to reinforce the tongue.
Instep: Technically, the instep is the part of your foot that goes in the shoe. This is what’s generally referred to as the “arch” of your foot, although there are three arches total.
Outsole: The rough, outer sole that touches the ground. Outsoles don’t have much of an effect on heel slippage, but an outsole that’s too heavy can exacerbate the problem.
Eyelets: These are the metal circles that cover and protect the holes for the laces.
Collar: The top edge of the back of the shoe. This is where you would attach a heel grip or insert a heel liner to alleviate heel slippage.

What is Heel Slipping / Heel Slippage?

Heel slipping, or heel slippage is one of the main reasons that a good pair of boots is essential for any hiker or camper. Not only can heel slippage be an uncomfortable experience, but it can also contribute to medical issues such as plantar fasciitis.

So what exactly is a heel slippage? To put it simply, heel slipping is when your foot slips out the back of your shoe or boot while walking. Often, the culprit is the heel area of your boot not being tight, worn-in, or well-fitted enough.

Thankfully, this can be fairly easy to fix, either by wearing the boots in more or by using some common tips and tricks as outlined below. First, however, let’s look into what causes heel slippage and why it’s so common with newly-purchased shoes.

What Causes Heel Slippage?

Heel slippage is an annoying problem that you can run into with any pair of new shoes. It’s more common, however, with stiffer shoes such as work boots, high heels, and cowboy boots. It can be especially annoying when this happens with your hiking boots!

After all, you’re relying on your boots to keep your feet safe and healthy, and a heel slip on the trail can be dangerous. So why do some shoes cause heel slippage? Essentially, the problem is that there’s not enough traction or pressure from the shoe around your heel.

This can be because the shoe doesn’t fit right, isn’t laced tightly enough, is made of low-traction materials, or even just because the boots need to be broken in.

11 Tips To Prevent and Fix Heel Slippage in Boots

Depending on the source of your heel slippage problem, the fix will be a little bit different. Thankfully, there are some easy tips and tricks to prevent your heel from slipping even while you wear a new pair of boots. You should rule out a few common shoe and boot problems first. To start with, check the sizing of your boots and consider adjusting your walking style.

1. Make sure you have the right size

The first and foremost thing to check if you start to experience heel slippage is to make sure you have the right size boot. It’s essential when buying a new pair of boots to get an accurate and snug fit. Not only will this prevent your heel from slipping out, but it can also prevent foot and ankle issues like plantar fasciitis as well.

It can be tricky to find the perfect fit! Different boots are shaped differently and your feet grow and change with different environmental conditions as well. One way to improve your chances, however, is to pay attention to both the length and width of your shoe size. If you need narrow soled shoes and end up with wide soles, you’re going to run into some heel slippage.

2. Adjust your walking style

This can be a good way to make wearing in a new pair of boots less of a pain. Simply try to walk heel-first rather than ball-first and this should alleviate some of the slipping. You should also pay attention to your walking style when buying new boots. Test them out by walking a bit to make sure they work well with your walking style.

3. Use a boot dryer

Not only will keeping your boots nice and dry help to prevent wear, mold, and the breakdown of the interior of your boot, it can also help them fit better. Just like putting certain clothes through the dryer to shrink them, drying your boots will tighten them up a bit.

It’s always better to use a purpose-built boot dryer to get the best results. You can, however, use a fan to dry out the inside of your boots if they get wet. Or, fill them with absorbent material such as balls of newspaper. Fully drying your boots will prevent the wear that can lead to heel slippage, so make sure it’s on your post-hike to-do list!

4. Use heel grips

If you’re sure you have the right size boot, and you’ve tried adjusting your gait and drying your boots, it’s time to get serious about tackling heel slippage. One easy-to-use option is a heel grip. This product, used in everything from work boots to high heels, attaches to the top of your shoe, providing a buffer between your heel and the back of the shoe.

Heel grips can also be used to correct for shoes that are too large for you if you’ve already made the purchase. This is similar to what a cobbler would call a “distance” but rather than being inserted into the shoe itself, the heel grip just attaches to the back.

Some people find them to be irritating and difficult to use, but a lot of people find them very comfortable.

5. Get non-slip insoles

You can also use insertable insoles designed to prevent your foot from sliding around in the boot. In fact, insoles can be great for a lot of purposes including arch support, cushioning, and gait correction. Be careful to understand the limitations of consumer products.

Only a podiatrist can address medical problems with orthotics. But the insoles available over the counter are great for simple fixes. Heel slippage is a great example. Just search for non-slip insoles, and make sure to get the right size.

6. Put in heel liners

You can also buy a similar product called a heel liner, which fits in the back of your shoe rather than at the bottom. Much like a heel grip, a heel liner creates a cushion between your heel and the back of the shoe.

This improves the traction and prevents slippage, and it also can help with blisters from too much foot movement inside the shoe. If you don’t want to buy heel liners or heel grips, you can use thick socks to a similar effect! More in socks in a moment.

7. Use lace anchors or better boot lacing.

One surprising source of heel slippage is loose shoelaces. You may not even realize the laces are loose, but if your heel keeps slipping out the back, finding a way to lace your boots more tightly can help a lot. Or, you can buy lace anchors to keep your laces from loosening as you walk.

There are many different versions of lace anchors, but they all attach to your laces and keep them from slipping through the eyelets. There are many different methods for lacing boots. Some, like the rabbit hole method, are especially good for stopping slippage.

Everyone has their own preferences, so try out a few different lacing styles to see which is the most comfortable for you. The rabbit hole method is relatively simple, so it’s a good place to start if you’re trying to adjust your lacing. Here’s what to do:

Lace up the boots as you normally would, stopping before the top / extra holes.
Then, pull both lace ends through one top hole.
Take both laces and lace them through the other top hole.
Finally, tie a bow as you normally would.

8. Get tongue pads

The tongue of your shoe or boot is one of the top spots for wear and tear. As the tongue gets loose and worn out, it won’t hold your foot quite as tightly to the bottom and back of the shoe. Tongue pads are a great solution to the problem.

You simply attach them to the bottom side of the tongue, and they push the heel backward and down. This can help prevent heel slippage by holding the wheel closer to the back of the shoe, but it’s also good for reinforcing a worn-out tongue generally.

You can buy tongue pads in a variety of styles and thicknesses depending on how much cushion you need.

9. Switch to non-slip socks

Despite what you might be thinking, it’s not always necessary to mod out your boots to solve a problem with heel slippage. Sometimes, it can be as easy as switching out your socks. Thicker socks can help provide more traction (just like a heel liner, heel grip, or any of the other inserts above) as well as cushioning to take up some space in the shoe.

So, if your boot or shoe is a little too big and you’re sliding around in there, get some thicker pairs of socks and see if they solve the problem before you try anything more involved.

10. Use double-sided tape

Here’s where the list gets a little weirder. For hikers and campers especially, you’re not always in a place where buying a heel liner would be easy. So these last couple of tips are for DIY solutions when you can’t get to the real thing. Still, it can be surprising how well some of these hacks work!

Double-sided tape is the first to try. If you have double-sided tape (especially the thicker kind for posters), just put a strip or two along the back wall of your shoe or boot. It will add some traction and cushioning to separate your heel from the back of the shoe. You can also buy purpose-made blister tape to add cushioning or prevent rubbing in your boots.

Hand using a hairspray bottle

11.Use a little hairspray!

Finally, you can also use hair spray to increase the amount of traction between your foot and the shoe. Just spray a little on your foot or on the inside of the back of the shoe and you’re good to go! It may feel a little weird at first, but this really does work.

It was developed first by people who wear high heels, but it works just as well for hiking boots, work boots, and just about any shoe with a heel slipping problem.

How to Fix Heel Slip in Boots

With a little luck, the tips above will solve your heel slippage problem. If you need more than a quick fix, however, there are some ways to adjust boots or shoes to fit you better. Of course, it’s better to make sure you’re sizing boots accurately in the first place, but if you do end up with a pair that you’d rather adjust, you can have a cobbler install “distances” in the shoe.

You can sometimes get this type of repair performed at a shoe store, but not all of them have repair services available, so you may need to find a cobbler. In this case, the cobbler will install leather spacers in the back of the boot or shoe in order to push your foot forward. If you have very well-made boots and want to preserve the quality, working with a cobbler may be a good idea.

Final Verdict

The most effective way to prevent heel slippage is to make sure your hiking boots fit right in the first place. It can be tempting to buy a pair of boots before you do all your homework, but make sure to have your foot measured, test the boots, and consider getting custom inserts to fit the boot to your foot.

All of this can help prevent heel slippage, but sometimes it’s just a necessary part of the boot break-in process. If you find yourself in the position, just try the tips above, and your boots will be secure in no time.

Bonus tip: Here are a few different ways to lace your boots for a snug and secure fit!

Outdoor Blog

Are You Ready for Autumn Adventures? How to Prep for an Unforgettable Outdoor Fall Guys Trip

Published

2 weeks ago

August 26, 2024

Caleb Cole

As autumn rolls in, the great outdoors beckons with its crisp air and colorful foliage. For those gearing up for an adventurous Fall Guys trip—think hiking, camping, and maybe some deer hunting—the preparation is half the fun and all the necessity. With a myriad of activities to choose from, how do you ensure your fall excursion is not only exhilarating but also safe and comfortable? Here’s a step-by-step guide to making the most of your outdoor escapades this fall.

Choosing Your Adventure

First things first: deciding what type of fall outdoor activity tickles your fancy. Are you looking to conquer trails with breathtaking autumn views, or are you gearing up for a weekend of tranquil camping beside a glistening lake? Perhaps, the thrill of tracking and observing wildlife is what you’re after.

Each activity demands a different approach and preparation method. Start by defining what your fall guys trip looks like. Is it a quiet escape into the wilderness, a challenging hike, or a dedicated hunting expedition? Once you’ve nailed down the type of trip, you can start tailoring your prep list to match the demands of the activities you’ve chosen.

Plan a Camping Trip

If camping is on your agenda, meticulous planning is essential to enjoy both the spontaneity and serenity of nature without a hitch. When you plan a camping trip, think beyond just a tent and a sleeping bag. Consider the overall length of your trip, the climate of your chosen destination, and the size of your group. Are you venturing into bear country? If so, bear-proof containers for your food and trash are a must.

What’s the weather forecast? Ensure your gear is appropriate for colder nights and unpredictable weather patterns. A well-planned camping experience means securing the right campsite, bringing sufficient food and water supplies, and ensuring you have the necessary permits. Also, be aware of the leave-no-trace principles to keep your environmental impact to a minimum. Planning with precision ensures you’re free to relax and revel in the beauty of the season without unnecessary interruptions.

Gear Up for Deer Hunting

For many outdoor enthusiasts, fall is synonymous with deer hunting season. If this is the core of your guys trip, gearing up appropriately cannot be overstressed. Your deer hunting gear is your ticket to not only success but also safety. Start with the basics: a reliable hunting rifle or bow, suitable ammunition, and a quality scope or binoculars for spotting your target.

Clothing is next on the list; opt for layers that can easily adjust to changing temperatures and are also camouflaged to blend in with the fall environment. Don’t skimp on a good pair of boots—comfort, warmth, and durability are key when you’re on the move. Also, essential gear like a hunting license, deer tags, a first-aid kit, and even a GPS or compass should be non-negotiable items in your pack. Remember, the right gear not only enhances your chances of a fruitful hunt but ensures you can do so safely and responsibly within the ecological balance.

Map Your Route

Mapping your route is crucial whether you’re hiking, camping, or hunting. This involves more than just selecting a trail or a campsite; it means understanding the terrain, noting water sources, identifying potential shelter spots, and being aware of exit points in case of emergencies. Topographic maps, GPS devices, and even mobile apps can be incredibly useful tools for this.

Spend time familiarizing yourself with the area through these resources, and always carry a physical map and compass—you never know when technology might let you down. It’s also a good idea to inform someone about where you plan to go and expected return time is a safety must. Properly mapping your route not only helps in avoiding getting lost but also maximizes your interaction with nature, letting you find those hidden spots that make a trip memorable.

Prepare Physically and Mentally

The physical demands of outdoor activities, especially in the unpredictable weather of fall, should not be underestimated. Start conditioning your body weeks in advance, particularly if your trip involves strenuous activities like long hikes or hunting. Cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and hikes with a loaded backpack can prepare your body for the exertion to come.

Equally important is mental preparation. Familiarize yourself with survival skills, such as how to start a fire, basic first aid, and how to stay calm in unexpected situations. A physically and mentally prepared adventurer is more likely to enjoy the trip and handle potential challenges effectively.

Pack Smart

The final step in preparing for your outdoor trip this fall is packing. Since fall weather can be highly variable, layering is key. Include a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating middle layer, and a waterproof outer layer. Besides clothing, pack essential gear tailored to your activities—this could include a sleeping bag rated for colder temperatures, waterproof bags to keep gear dry, cooking equipment, food supplies, and safety items like a whistle, flashlight, and multi-tool. Be mindful of the weight and volume of your pack; every item should justify its place in your backpack by being essential or serving multiple purposes.

Outdoor Blog

BougeRV Showcases Sustainable Innovations at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024

Published

3 months ago

June 26, 2024

Jonas Muthoni

BougeRV is thrilled to participate in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024, scheduled from June 17-19 at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. As North America’s premier outdoor industry trade show, the event is a convergence of top brands, retailers, and industry professionals showcasing the latest in outdoor gear and innovations. BougeRV’s participation is a perfect example of their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly outdoor living solutions.

At the head of BougeRV’s exhibit is the Rocky Portable Fridge, a robust and versatile cooling solution designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts. This innovative fridge features dual-zone capability, allowing it to function simultaneously as a refrigerator and a freezer. Built with heavy-duty materials, the Rocky Portable Fridge is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including shockproof capabilities up to 40°. The fridge’s efficient energy consumption, coupled with a battery protection system, makes it perfect for off-grid adventures, aligning perfectly with the sustainable ethos of the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market.

The Rocky Portable Fridge also shows off an impressive temperature range from -4°F to 68°F, allowing for precise temperature control. Its smart storage solutions, including a removable divider and basket, ensure that items remain organized and easily accessible. The fridge can be powered by a 12V/24V DC car port, a 100-240V AC wall outlet, or an optional portable power station, providing unparalleled versatility. This adaptability is crucial for modern adventurers who require reliable and efficient cooling solutions on the go.

In addition to the Rocky Portable Fridge, BougeRV is showing several other cutting-edge products designed to enhance outdoor experiences. The CRPRO 30, a compact and high-performance fridge, is perfect for campers and RV enthusiasts. Its advanced cooling technology and robust build make it a reliable companion for any journey. Similarly, the 4000BTU Portable Air Conditioner is tailored for overlanding and camping, offering powerful cooling with user-friendly features such as dual adjustable air outlets and an IPX4 water-resistant design. These products are expected to attract overlanding enthusiasts eager to explore the latest innovations in outdoor living.

BougeRV’s participation in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market is really and truly about connecting with other industry leaders, exploring emerging trends, and demonstrating their commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices. By attending this prestigious and engaging event, BougeRV aims to highlight their dedication to providing high-quality products that cater to the needs of modern outdoor enthusiasts.

For more details about BougeRV and their innovative products, visit the BougeRV website. BougeRV’s involvement in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024 highlights their dedication to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction, positioning them as a leading brand in the outdoor industry ready to make a significant impact at this breakout event.

Outdoor Blog

The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness

Published

3 months ago

June 2, 2024

Sam Brooks

The wilderness beckons with the promise of adventure, but any seasoned hunter knows that what you wear can make or break your experience. Gone are the days when outdoor apparel was purely utilitarian. Today, fashion and functionality blend seamlessly to create gear that’s not only practical but also stylish. From the latest camouflage patterns to weather-resistant fabrics, let’s explore the evolution of outdoor apparel and how it’s revolutionizing the way we approach the great outdoors.

Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth

Camouflage has come a long way from the simple green and brown patterns of yesteryear. Modern camouflage designs are now a blend of advanced science and cutting-edge style. These patterns aren’t just about blending into the background; they’re about creating an optical illusion that makes the wearer nearly invisible to wildlife.

Contemporary camo gear incorporates a variety of colors and textures to match different environments, from dense forests to arid deserts. This evolution in design is as much about aesthetics as it is about effectiveness, allowing hunters to move through their chosen terrain with confidence and stealth.

The shift towards more sophisticated camouflage patterns also reflects a broader trend in outdoor apparel: the desire for gear that looks good and performs even better. Hunters today want apparel that makes a statement while still providing the ultimate in concealment. Whether it’s a jacket with a sleek, modern design or pants that offer the perfect balance of comfort and camouflage, today’s outdoor apparel combines fashion and function like never before.

Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style

Layering is a critical concept in outdoor apparel, offering both practical and aesthetic benefits. Modern layering systems are designed to regulate body temperature and provide protection from the elements. However, they also offer a chance to showcase personal style. Successful layering starts with choosing pieces that work well together both functionally and visually.

Base layers, for instance, have evolved from simple thermal wear to stylish garments that can be worn on their own or as part of a layered ensemble. These pieces are often made from advanced fabrics that provide warmth without bulk, ensuring that hunters can stay comfortable and mobile. Mid-layers add another dimension of style and functionality, offering insulation while allowing for breathability. Softshell jackets and vests come in many different colors and designs, making it easy to find pieces that suit individual tastes.

Layering can also help you catch different kinds of animals. For instance, when you’re looking for turkey hunting tips, it’s important to look at the best kinds of layering to stay incognito and catch the best birds. Choosing the right layers can make a significant difference in staying comfortable and concealed during long hours in the field.

Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter

Footwear is another area where outdoor apparel has seen significant evolution. In the past, hunting boots were purely functional, but, today, they still offer these essential qualities but have also become a fashion statement. Modern hunting boots come in a variety of styles, from traditional leather to contemporary synthetic materials, and are available in a range of colors and designs.

The advancements in footwear technology have been remarkable. Today’s hunting boots are designed to be lightweight yet durable, with features like waterproof membranes, breathable linings, and advanced traction systems. These innovations ensure that hunters can move comfortably and safely through any environment. But it’s not just about functionality; the aesthetic appeal of modern hunting boots is undeniable. Many boots are designed with sleek, stylish lines that make them suitable for wearing both in the field and in more casual settings.

High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

When it comes to hunting, high-performance gear is a game-changer. This is the section where outdoor apparel truly shines, combining cutting-edge technology with sleek design to create products that offer unmatched performance. Performance hunting gear includes everything from moisture-wicking base layers to high-tech outerwear designed to withstand the harshest conditions.

Today’s high-performance apparel utilizes advanced materials that are both lightweight and durable. Fabrics like Gore-Tex and other proprietary blends offer superior protection against wind and water while maintaining breathability. These materials help regulate body temperature, keeping hunters comfortable in a wide range of environments. In addition to these practical benefits, high-performance gear often features ergonomic designs that allow for a full range of motion, ensuring that hunters can move freely and easily.

Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter

Sustainability has become an increasingly important consideration in the world of outdoor apparel. Hunters who are passionate about preserving the wilderness they love to explore are now seeking out eco-friendly clothing options that minimize environmental impact. Eco-friendly outdoor apparel is made from sustainable materials such as recycled polyester, organic cotton, and biodegradable fibers. These materials offer the same performance benefits as traditional fabrics but with a lower environmental footprint.