Shoes are less likely to cause blisters when they fit comfortably, do not create repeated pressure or slipping, and are broken in gradually. Wearing new shoes for short periods at first can help your feet adjust before longer walks or exercise.
Blisters develop from repeated shear within the skin, especially when the same area is exposed to pressure over and over. Socks can also make a difference. Well-fitting, moisture-managing socks may help reduce skin irritation, while wet or sweaty socks can increase blister risk.
If your feet become damp, changing into dry socks can be helpful. Pay attention to exactly where blisters keep forming, since repeated heel, toe, or side-of-foot blisters may suggest that the shoe is slipping, too tight in one area, or putting extra pressure on a prominent part of the foot.
Avoid deliberately popping a blister, and try not to wear the shoe that caused it until the area has healed. If blisters keep returning despite changing your footwear or socks, a podiatrist can assess your shoe fit, foot shape, and pressure points. People with diabetes, poor circulation, or reduced foot sensation should seek medical advice promptly for any new blister.