Socks for men who often get heel sores
Oct 06, 2026
Short answer: Heel sores often come from friction between heel, sock and shoe, especially when the fit is wrong or moisture lingers. Choose soft socks that do not fold, check shoes and seams, and change when damp. Lasting or poorly healing sores should be checked by your doctor.
Where heel sores come from
Heel sores appear when the skin rubs repeatedly against sock and shoe, often when the heel slides up and down in the shoe. Moisture, new shoes and long days make it worse. It is a common nuisance, and there are several things you can do yourself before it gets sore.
The sock must not fold
A sock that folds under the heel creates an uneven surface that rubs. Choose a soft sock in a size that sits smoothly without squeezing. Check that the heel of the sock sits right each time you put it on, and smooth it out before the shoe goes on. Here are bamboo socks to choose from.
Seams and rough spots
Feel the inside of the socks for coarse seams or darned spots that can press on the heel. Sort out old, hard and worn pairs, since they rub more. Also feel inside the shoe for a rough edge at the back of the heel that should be looked at.
Shoes that fit
If the shoe is too big, the heel slides up and down, and if it is too small, it presses. Try shoes on late in the day, when the feet are a little thicker, and with the socks you will use. Walk around the shop and check that the heel stays put without pressing.
Break new shoes in slowly
New shoes should come into daily use gradually, especially leather or stiff models. Wear them for short spells at home first, and switch to something else if you feel rubbing. If you often get heel sores, look for a pair that fits rather than bending yourself to the shoes.
Keep your feet dry
Moisture makes the skin soft and more exposed to friction. Change into a dry pair if you sweat, and keep a spare pair in your bag. See the socks for men and women, which are soft on the skin and easy to switch between.
When the skin starts to rub
Stop and check the heel at the first sign of warmth or redness, instead of walking on. Change the sock and, if possible, the shoe. If you have recurring sores that do not heal, or you have diabetes or reduced feeling in your feet, talk to your doctor.
The rest of your clothes on long days
If you are on your feet all day, think about all your clothes so you do not get too warm and sweaty. A soft sweater you can take on and off helps. See the long sleeve models, which you can use in layers so your feet do not get unnecessarily warm.
Frequently asked questions
Why do I get heel sores even when my shoes are new and nice?
New shoes are often stiff, and the heel can rub until the shoe is broken in. Break them in slowly and check that the sock does not fold under the heel.
Do thicker socks help?
It depends on the shoe. A slightly thicker sock can help if the shoe is big, but a sock that is too thick in a tight shoe can make the problem worse.
When should I see a doctor about heel sores?
If the sores do not heal, keep coming back, turn red and warm, or you have diabetes or reduced feeling in your feet, talk to your doctor. Socks cannot replace a doctor or treatment.
See our range of bamboo socks for men.
