" I was wondering what type of silicon padding you used because I think I fall into exactly the same category." This is going to sound goofy, but I take these ladies silicone gel soles they make for high heels, then cut two strips out, each about 1.24 inches wide and maybe 2.5 - 3 inches long, then glue them together (they have a "sticky" side to hold them in place in the shoe). I wrap tape about three times around my foot, put the strip going down the metatarsal, starting at the base of the big toe, then run tape around 3 more times. The tabi just keeps the tape in place. It's worked really well so far. Good luck, -Charles