What Does It Mean to Have Loose Shoes? Learn About Risks and Fixes

What Does It Mean to Have Loose Shoes?

Having loose shoes that slip and slide on your feet can lead to a variety of problems. From blisters and calluses to falls and injuries, improperly fitted shoes should not be taken lightly. But what exactly causes loose shoes and what can you do about it?

Causes of Loose Shoes

There are a few key reasons why you may be dealing with loose shoes:

• Your shoes are too big - Shoes that are sized too largely will naturally slide and slip as you walk.
• The shoes are stretched out - Wearing shoes for long periods can cause them to stretch and lose their structure and shape.
• You have the wrong shoe width - Shoes that are too narrow or wide will not properly grip your feet.
• Lack of support features - Shoes without laces, straps, or buckles allow more room for your feet to slide.
• Wearing down sole treads - Smooth, worn out soles can't grip the walking surface underneath.

Risks of Wearing Loose Shoes

It’s crucial to understand the safety hazards and risks that come with wearing loose shoes that don’t properly stay on your feet, including:

• Tripping hazards – Loose shoes almost always start slipping out of place while walking or running, making your steps unstable and putting you at risk of falling or twisting your ankle if your foot rolls.
• Skin irritation – Excessive rubbing from loose shoes can lead to painful blisters, calluses, bleeding and additional irritations as your feet slide around.
• Foot conditions – Being unable to properly walk, balance or absorb shock in loose shoes can potentially cause or aggravate conditions like plantar fasciitis, bunions and hammertoes.
• Knee/back problems – The misalignment and instability from loose shoes can radiate problems upwards through your whole body, especially to posture-sensitive areas like the kneecaps and lower back.

Getting Properly Fitted Shoes

The best way to avoid all the problems associated with loose shoes is to simply get properly fitted ones that grip your feet. But what exactly does “proper” sizing and fitting entail?

Finding the Right Shoe Size

Finding the correct shoe size should always be the first step towards eliminating loose shoes. Here are key tips for getting accurate shoe sizing:

• Measure feet every 6 months - Feet change over time, especially for growing kids, so regular measurements help catch size fluctuations.
• Use a Brannock device - These foot measuring tools are still the #1 recommended way to get proper shoe lengths and widths.
• Try shoes on in-store whenever possible - Don’t just assume your size; always test shoes on with the appropriate socks/orthotics you’ll wear.
• Consider factors like time of day or athletic activity - Feet can expand throughout the day or while working out.
• Allow a small amount of room in toe box - Up to 1⁄2 inch space allows your feet to breathe but not slide.

Picking Shoe Features That Help Secure Fit

Besides getting your basic shoe size right, also look for these helpful securing features when shoe shopping:

• Adjustable closures - Laces, straps, toggles, Velcro and similar allow custom tightening.
• Backs - Backed shoes hold heels in better.
• Toe boxes - Rounded/tapered toe areas enhance grip.
• Insoles - Added insoles can take up volume space.
• Inserts - Orthopedic inserts help stabilize feet.

When to Replace Your Shoes

At some point, even properly fitted shoes will stretch out excessively with wear. Knowing when to swap your shoes is key for avoiding the gradual progression into loose shoes and the problems they bring.

Shoe Replacement Guidelines

Here are good benchmarks on when to shop for replacement shoes due to stretching, sliding and loosening of old pairs:

• Athletic shoes - Replace every 300 to 500 miles for runners; earlier if sliding or pain occurs.
• Work & walking shoes - Swap every 6 to 12 months on average.
• Flats/heels - Discard once sliding in the back or heel spurs rubbing.
• Kids’ shoes - Get new pairs every 2 to 3 months as growing feet change fast.

Other Replacement Indicators

On top of timespan guidelines, look for these signs your current shoes need replacing due to excess wear weakening their shape and structure:

• The treads seem completely flat/bald.
• Uppers are visibly cracking or ripping open.
• Padding feels paper thin.
• Supportive parts like shanks are broken.
• Deformities like stretched heel counters occur.
• Toe boxes curl or collapse in.

React promptly when you spot such breakdowns by getting newly fitted replacement shoes ASAP to avoid hobbling around in completely worn out, loose shoes.

Other Ways to Tighten Loose Shoes

While getting properly sized and fitted shoes should be your ultimate solution, you can temporarily tighten back up some loose shoes as needed between replacements using these handy tricks:

Home Remedies

• Insert extra insoles to raise feet and take up space.
• Apply molefoam/blister pads where shoes rub.
• Spray expanding waterproofing sprays inside.
• Lace shoes differently or use heel lock technique.
• Double up on socks for more snugness.

DIY Alterations

• Sew/glue on patches where shoes are worn.
• Add your own Velcro straps.
• Insert shoelace eyelets/hooks.
• Apply textured fabric glue for more traction.

These fixes help extend the lifespan of shoes between replacements, but aren’t permanent solutions for continual wear and stretch. Get properly sized new shoes once fixes no longer work!

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.