Quiet shoes for misophonia….
Remember those days when you thought you were going crazy because certain sounds seemed to drive you up the wall, yet everyone else around you seemed completely unaffected?
The mere sound of someone eating would send you into a frenzy, making you want to run as far away as possible. Then, that incredible “aha” moment when you finally discovered that this intense sensitivity to sound has a name.
Misophonia is a condition characterized by an intense dislike or irritation triggered by specific sounds, often leading to anxiety, anger, or discomfort.
I'm not sure that description gives people a real understanding of what it's like to live with misophonia. How you cannot control your reactions to sounds.
One of the sounds that I find intensely annoying is hearing someone walk around in very noisy shoes. I can never seem to block out that sound. It's even more annoying when it's my shoes making the noise!
Choose the Right Quiet Shoes
To begin with try to buy shoes that don't make noise in the first place, that will save you a lot of time and bother. Also, investing in noise-reducing shoes doesn't mean compromising style.
Many brands offer stylish sneakers, loafers, or flats with noise-reducing features. You can find some of my recommendations here.
However if you have, or found shoes that you absolutely love but make a lot noise there are various methods to help them become quiet shoes. You can then embrace some peace and tranquility with every step you take!
Tips to Quiet Shoes for Misophonia
Shoe Bottoms:
- Apply a Grip Pad: You can try using a grip pad to stop the noise made by the sole of your shoe. Grip pads are designed to reduce friction and add cushioning to the sole, which can eliminate the squeaking sound when it rubs against surfaces. You can find grip pads in most shoe stores, and they're easy to apply yourself. Simply place the pad onto the sole of the shoe and press it firmly into place following the instructions provided by the manufacturer.
- Use the Sandpaper Trick: Another great trick to make your shoe less noisy is to sand the sole with fine-grit sandpaper. Just rub the sandpaper gently on the sole of your shoe to rough it up. This will help the shoe grip the floor better and provide more cushioning to quiet down any noise.
- Try a Rubberized Spray: You can use a rubber spray to make your shoe less slippery and noisy. This spray is made to add more grip to the sole, especially for leather soles that make a lot of noise on smooth surfaces. Just spray it on the sole of your shoe, and it will create a textured layer that helps reduce noise.
- Apply Petroleum Jelly: Applying petroleum jelly to the sole of your shoe can also help to reduce noise. Simply spread a small amount of petroleum jelly over the sole of your shoe, focusing on the areas that come into contact with the ground. This can help to reduce friction and absorb sound.
- Replace Worn-out Soles: If you have tried all of the above methods and your shoes are still making noise, it might be time to replace the soles. Worn-out soles can create a lot of noise as they rub against the ground, and they can also make your shoes less comfortable to wear. Bring them to your local cobbler who can replace the soles with a high-quality, noise-reducing material to ensure good traction and minimal sound.
Shoe Tops:
Apply Talcum Powder or Cornstarch:
One common reason for squeaky shoes is friction between the insole and the shoe. By sprinkling talcum powder or cornstarch on the insoles, you can reduce the friction and eliminate the irritating squeaking sound. Simply sprinkle a small amount of powder onto the insole and spread it evenly. Make sure to tap off any excess before placing your feet inside the shoes.Replace Worn-out or Loose Insoles: In some cases, worn-out or loose insoles can cause shoes to squeak. Check your shoes to see if the insoles have become worn, torn, or loose. If so, consider replacing them with new, well-fitting insoles. This will not only resolve the noise issue but also provide additional comfort and support to your feet.
Sprinkle Baking Soda:
Baking soda is not just useful in the kitchen; it can also work wonders for silencing your shoes. Sprinkle a small amount of baking soda inside your shoes and let it sit overnight. The baking soda will absorb any odors and moisture, which can lead to squeaking. In the morning, shake out the excess baking soda, and you'll notice a considerable reduction in noise.Check and Tighten Loose Parts:
Sometimes, squeaky shoes can result from loose parts, such as laces, buckles, or screws. Inspect your shoes carefully, making sure all parts are securely fastened. If you find any loose components, tighten them accordingly. This simple step can eliminate noise and prevent any potential damage caused by loose parts rubbing against each other.
Quiet Shoes Conclusion:
Dealing with noisy shoes can be frustrating. However, you don't have to put up with it. Fortunately, there are simple ways to quiet shoes with items you already have at home and basic maintenance techniques.
Whether it's using talcum powder or replacing insoles, these tricks can help you enjoy your favorite shoes without any annoying sounds. Give them a try and savor a quiet and peaceful walking experience.
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