The first and best way of how to stop shoes from rubbing Achilles tendons is to ensure that your shoes fit properly. Feet swell during the day, so ideally, the best time to shop for shoes is later in the day, when feet are largest. It isn’t unusual for one foot to be larger than the other, so trying on shoes to ensure the best fit is a good idea. Try taking them to a cobbler for stretching if they’re a little too small, or use a shoe tree or shoe stretcher at home. To make them form better to the foot, put on two pairs of socks, take a hair dryer, and use it only as long as it takes to make the shoe soft enough to conform to the foot; this method is not recommended for plastic or synthetics, and caution should be used with fabric, leather and suede. Finally, there are shoe stretch sprays, where the shoe is sprayed, and then worn until it’s dried. If needed, the spray can be used again.
The second way is to use an insole that can help the shoe fit better, especially if one foot is slightly smaller; use a half insole for this purpose. Insoles can also help lift the foot slightly, decreasing the chances of the shoes rubbing the Achilles tendon. Heel grips can help prevent feet from slipping or otherwise moving around in the shoes. There are heel shields that can protect the Achilles area, but they can also rub or lift the foot too high. They might be worth a try if nothing else works. Moleskin can be put on the area where rubbing occurs, or put into the heel of the shoe. If using moleskin on the Achilles tendon, cut it to fit the heel, and apply like a bandage. It’s best used with socks. Blister prevention stickers that go on the foot are available as well. If all else fails, use duct tape to protect the Achilles tendon before putting on socks.
The third way to help stop shoes from rubbing Achilles tendons is to wear them around the house to break them in before any event they’ve been bought for. Walking around in them at home for short periods may take longer, but will work, and is a gentler method. Putting them in the freezer, in a bag, for a couple of hours and then immediately putting socks and the shoes on may help with the process.
The fourth way on how to stop shoes from rubbing achilles is to use a leather conditioner or spray designed to soften shoes on the shoe heel, if it won’t stain the shoe, and let it sit overnight. A small amount of body moisturizer on the inside might also help soften it. As a last resort, try lightly hammering or using an emery board to lower the edge, but don’t overdo either method.
The fifth way is to use anti-friction sprays, sticks, or specially designed tapes on the Achilles tendons, and use a moisturizer or petroleum jelly on feet where shoes rub to protect them from damage. Antiperspirant/deodorant or powder will help absorb and prevent moisture which causes slipping of the foot, and might prevent the shoe rubbing the heel. Wearing two pairs of socks may also help pad the areas that are rubbed. Use thinner socks as the inner pair, and heavier as the outer pair.