The top of the foot and laces against thin socks
Short answer: The top of the foot has almost no padding, and the lace presses directly on bone and tendon. With the right sock, lacing and fit you can avoid sore feet, even in thin summer socks.
Why the top of the foot is so sensitive
On the upper side of the foot, tendons and bones lie just under the skin, and there is almost no cushioning. When the lace tightens, it is pressed directly against these structures, and a thin sock gives little protection. That is why a shoe that feels fine can cause an annoying pressure after about an hour. It is especially noticeable in a shoe with a high instep.
How to lace so it does not press
You do not have to lace the shoe from toe to top with the same tension. Loosen the two or three top eyelets slightly above the place where the pressure sits, and skip a couple of eyelets if needed, so the lace does not lie right on the sore spot. Make sure the tongue lies flat and is not rolled up. A tongue pad or a thin piece of foam can also spread the pressure if the shoe is slightly narrow.
The fabric on top of the sock
A thin sock with a smooth surface slides easily against the tongue and the lace, but gives little cushioning. A sock with a little fullness on top spreads the pressure more evenly, without making the shoe too tight. Viscose from bamboo is soft and smooth, but it should fit snugly enough not to fold under the tongue. Check that the cuff of the sock does not sit exactly where the lace crosses.
The fit of the shoe matters more than the sock
If the pressure is strong, it is usually the shoe and not the sock that is the problem. A shoe with too low an instep will always press on the top of the foot. Try shoes on late in the day, when the feet are slightly swollen, and walk around the shop. Bring the socks you plan to wear in the shoe. If the tongue stands straight up or presses, the shoe is probably too small or too narrow.
For summer and shorter days
In warm weather many people wear thin socks or none, and then the lacing is felt even more. In summer it can be an advantage to choose a light sock with some cushioning and keep the lacing loose. See bamboo shorts for women and bamboo T-shirt for women for light summer pieces that suit a day on your feet. If you have long days of walking, bring a few extra socks.
If you keep having pain
If you are sure the shoe fits and there is still a sore spot, it may be caused by a small swelling or irritation of a tendon. Take a break from the shoes that press and choose looser lacing for a while. If the pain continues, talk to your doctor or a chiropodist. The combination of good clothes, soft footwear and a long-sleeved top for cooler days, see women's long-sleeved bamboo T-shirt, makes the day more comfortable.
Frequently asked questions
Why does the lace press on the top of my foot
Because there is very little padding on the upper side of the foot and tendons and bones lie just under the skin. Tight lacing increases the pressure.
Does a thicker sock help
A little, but if the shoe is too small a thicker sock can make it worse. First try loosening the lacing and checking the fit.
Should I lace the shoe evenly all the way up
No. You can loosen or skip eyelets at the sore spot, so the lace does not press directly on it.
See our range of men's bamboo socks.
