I got myself a pair of Salomon X Ultra 4 shoes and took them on their first test drive—about 8 miles through relatively flat trails around my local park in Colorado. It wasn’t particularly tough, and the weather was warm but nothing crazy. I’m wearing my usual Darn Tough socks.
At first, the shoes felt super comfy in the store and even while walking around the house. But halfway into my hike, I noticed that both heels, especially the inside edges, were starting to burn. By the time I got home, I had the beginnings of blisters in the same spot on both heels. This hasn’t been a problem before with my previous boots (Keen Targhee III).
Today, I still feel the sensitivity around the inside of my heels, and it’s only in these new shoes. No issues at all when I wear my old ones. What’s going on here? Are these shoes a bad match for my feet, or do they just need some breaking in? Open to any suggestions
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It seems like your heels are getting too much friction. Maybe the shoes are just stiffer in that area compared to your old boots. Have you tried heel cups or extra cushioning there?
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If you’re getting blisters that fast that might be the shape of the shoe. Some brands just don’t fit certain foot shapes well. Have you considered trying a different insole? Something like Superfeet.
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I haven’t swapped them out yet but I believe that could help. I just hate the idea of spending more after I already shelled out for these boots.
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I know everyone says boots need breaking in, but if you’re already getting blisters after a short hike why don’t you just return them and try a different brand. Blisters on both heels in the same place could mean they just aren’t the right fit for your feet man.
You can try loosening the laces around the ankle area. Too-tight laces can cause more pressure on the heel than you’d think.
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It could be the material inside the heel causing that extra friction. Try wearing liner socks under your hiking socks to reduce rubbing.