How to Prevent Blisters from Soccer Cleats

Blisters for soccer players can be uncomfortable and painful when playing or just walking. Blisters are caused by friction between your skin and your soccer cleats, and they can make it difficult to play your best.

Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to prevent blisters from forming in the first place.

First, it’s important to make sure you’re wearing the right size cleats. If your cleats are too tight or too loose, they can cause rubbing and irritation that leads to blisters.

Additionally, make sure you’re wearing socks that are designed to wick away moisture and reduce friction. Cotton socks are not ideal for soccer, as they typically hold onto sweat and can cause blisters to form.

In this article, we’ll address what causes blisters, forming your cleats to reduce blisters, preventing blisters, and more!

Side note – feet blisters isn’t a subject we like to address but it’s so common among soccer players that we can’t ignore it. 

What Causes Blisters?

Blisters are a common injury that can occur when playing soccer. They are caused by an excessive amount of friction between the skin and the sock or between the skin directly with the soccer cleat.

There are three factors that influence the onset of blisters: friction, heat, and sweat.

Friction is the primary cause of blisters. When the skin rubs against a surface, it creates friction, which can lead to the formation of a blister. In soccer, friction can be caused by various factors, such as tight-fitting cleats, broken cleats, or new cleats that have not been broken in yet. Additionally, socks that are too thick or too thin can also contribute to the development of blisters.

Heat is another factor that can contribute to the formation of blisters. When the skin becomes hot and sweaty, it softens and becomes more susceptible to friction. This is why blisters are more likely to develop in hot and humid conditions.

Sweat can also contribute to the formation of blisters. When sweat accumulates on the skin, it can create a moist environment that promotes the growth of bacteria. This can lead to infections that can cause blisters to form.

Choosing the Right Cleats

When it comes to preventing blisters from soccer cleats, choosing the right pair is crucial. Here are some factors to consider when selecting your cleats:

Consider the Playing Surface

The type of surface you’ll be playing on is an important factor to consider when selecting your cleats. Different surfaces require different types of cleats. Here are the different types of soccer cleats you’ll find on the market.

Ensure Proper Fit

Ensuring that your cleats fit properly is another important factor in preventing blisters. Here are some tips to help you achieve a proper fit:

• Try on cleats at the end of the day when your feet are slightly swollen.
• Wear the socks you’ll be playing in when trying on cleats.
• Make sure there’s about a half-inch of space between your toes and the end of the cleat.
• Walk around in the cleats to make sure they feel comfortable and secure.

To learn more, head over to ‘How Should Soccer Cleats Fit?’

Breaking in Your Cleats

Breaking in your soccer cleats is a crucial step to prevent blisters and ensure maximum comfort on the field. Here are some tips to help you break in your cleats effectively.

Wear Them Around the House

Wearing your cleats around the house for short periods of time is a great way to break them in. This allows your feet to get used to the shape and feel of the cleats without putting too much pressure on them.

Start by wearing them for 30 minutes to an hour each day and gradually increase the time as your feet become more comfortable.

Gradually Increase Use

Once you’ve worn your cleats around the house for a few days, it’s time to start using them on the field.

However, it’s important to gradually increase the amount of time you spend in them. Start by using them for short periods of time during practice or drills and gradually increase the time as your feet become more accustomed to the cleats.

It’s also important to note that you should never wear your cleats for an extended period of time before they are fully broken in. This can lead to blisters and discomfort on the field.

Preventing Blisters During Play

The best way to combat getting blisters is to try to prevent them from happening in the first place. Here are some common tips to help you prevent blisters during play.

Use Moleskin or Bandages

Moleskin or bandages can be used to protect blister-prone areas. Apply them before play to reduce friction and prevent blisters. Make sure the moleskin or bandage is securely in place, so it doesn’t move around during play.

You can find these bandages at your local Walgreens or CVS.

Apply Petroleum Jelly

Petroleum jelly can be applied to blister-prone areas to reduce friction. It creates a fluid barrier between your skin and your cleats, preventing blisters from forming.

Apply a thin layer before putting on your socks and cleats. Doing this consistently will help avoid any harsh rubbing between your skin and socks.

Consider Grip Socks

Grip socks have rubberized soles that help prevent your feet from sliding around in your cleats. This reduces friction and can help prevent blisters. They also provide extra cushioning and support for your feet. Take a look at some affordable grip socks on Amazon.

Post-Game Care

After a long, grueling but exciting game of soccer, your feet will need some extra attention to prevent blisters from forming. Here are some steps you can take to ensure that your feet stay healthy and blister-free.

Take Your Cleats & Socks Off

The first thing you’ll want to do is to take your cleats and socks off so you reduce the moisture from playing. We suggest having a pair of slides in your soccer bag to switch into after a game.

Clean and Dry Your Cleats

Next, you’ll want to clean and dry your cleats. Use a damp cloth to wipe away any dirt or debris on the outside of your cleats. Then, remove the insoles and let them air dry. This will help prevent any bacteria from growing and causing blisters.

Treat Any Developing Blisters

If you notice any developing blisters, it’s important to treat them right away. Clean the area with soap and water, and then apply a blister pad or bandage. If the blister has already popped (yuck!), clean the area with soap and water, and then apply an antiseptic ointment to prevent infection.

By following these simple steps, you can potentially prevent blisters from forming and keep your feet healthy and comfortable.

Why is this important? Because you want to put yourself in the best position to perform well. As they say “Healthy feet, healthy game”. – no one says that but you get the point.

Should I Peel My Blister?

No (but maybe)! While it may be tempting to pop or peel a blister, it’s important to know that doing so can increase the risk of infection and delay the healing process.

When you peel off the top layer of skin, you expose the sensitive skin underneath, which can be painful and prone to infection.

Additionally, the fluid inside the blister serves as a cushion and protects the area from further damage. If you remove the fluid, you increase the risk of developing another blister or aggravating the existing one.

If the blister is small and not causing discomfort, it’s best to leave it alone and let it heal naturally. You can cover it with a bandage or blister pad to protect it from further friction.

However, if the blister is large and causing significant pain or discomfort, you may need to drain it. To do so, sterilize a needle with rubbing alcohol and use it to puncture the blister at its base. Gently press the fluid out, but leave the overlying skin intact. Then, cover the blister with a sterile bandage or dressing to protect it from infection.

So, it’s generally best to avoid peeling or popping a blister caused by soccer cleats. Instead, let it heal naturally or, if necessary, drain it carefully to avoid infection. Remember to keep the area clean and dry, and avoid wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes to prevent future blisters.

Should I Go to a Doctor?

Almost all blisters are not serious and can be treated at home. However, if you notice any signs of infection, you should see a doctor as soon as possible.

Here are some signs that your blister may be infected:

• Redness and swelling around the blister
• Pain or tenderness
• Pus or drainage from the blister
• Fever

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor. They may prescribe antibiotics or other treatments to help clear up the infection quickly.

In some cases, a doctor may need to drain the blister. This is typically done using a sterile needle or scalpel. It’s important to never try to drain a blister yourself as this can increase the risk of infection.

If you have a blister that is particularly large or painful, you may also want to see a doctor. They may be able to provide additional treatments or recommendations to help speed up the healing process.

Final Thoughts

Even though our job is to talk about soccer, these are important topics because it helps performance on the soccer field.

Preventing blisters from soccer cleats involves taking several measures such as buying the right size and type of cleats, breaking them in, applying petroleum jelly, and thinking about the playing surface.

It is also important to allow blisters to breathe and to protect them while playing soccer. And, don’t stay in your cleats too long after playing.

By following these tips, soccer players can reduce the risk of blisters and enjoy a more comfortable playing experience!