World Cup boot hack explained: why players are cutting heels
Players are cutting the back of their boots at the World Cup to relieve painful pressure on the heel—often linked to “Haglund’s heel” (also nicknamed “pump bump”). By removing the stiff heel section that rubs the bump, they reduce irritation and inflammation so they can keep playing. That’s why players are cutting.
Key Takeaways
- The “cut-out heel” trend is real: fans noticed holes carved into the back of boots during a World Cup match.
- The main reason is pain relief: players are trying to reduce pressure on “Haglund’s heel”/“pump bump.”
- Boots can aggravate the problem: stiff heel counters may trigger inflammation around the Achilles and bursa.
- It’s a DIY workaround: the cut removes the hard area that contacts the heel bump.
Why are World Cup players cutting holes in the back of boots?
It surfaced on broadcasts when Portugal winger Pedro Neto was spotted with a noticeable cut-out at the back of his boot during Portugal vs Spain (6 July). Viewers on social media said it was their first time seeing it, because the modification can look extreme—almost like the boot’s heel has been “opened” below the ankle.
According to the report, the explanation is practical rather than flashy: the hole can reduce load and friction on an irritated heel by removing the rigid section that would normally press into the back of the foot.
What is “Haglund’s heel” (aka “pump bump”)?
The article describes “Haglund’s heel” as a painful issue where a bony bump forms on the back of the heel. With constant pressure from a stiff shoe heel pushing against that bump, it can trigger painful inflammation affecting the Achilles area and the bursa.
If you want a general medical overview of the condition name (without relying on it for match-specific claims), see an authoritative explainer like Cleveland Clinic’s page on Haglund’s deformity: Cleveland Clinic.
Does cutting the boot actually help—and what else do players do?
The logic is simple: if the hard heel structure is what’s pressing on the sensitive spot, cut it out so it can’t rub. That’s why the cut-outs tend to appear exactly where the boot’s heel would contact the back of the foot.
The piece also notes other ways players typically seek relief away from matches: wearing open-back shoes when not playing (think sliders), applying ice, or using gel sleeves.
Why does this matter beyond one strange-looking boot?
Because it highlights what elite players will do—mid-tournament—to manage pain and keep performing, even if it means visibly hacking their gear. It also sparked criticism online that, after so long and with so much money in modern football, players are still forced into DIY solutions when boots cause discomfort.
If you’re into the weirder side of sporting trends and other odd headlines, you can browse more here: Bizarre World.
Source: LADbible.