How To Break In Shoes: Tips for the Perfect Fit

Do you have shoes that look amazing but leave your feet begging for mercy? We’ve all been there. Breaking in new shoes can test your patience (and pain tolerance). The truth is, it doesn’t have to be that way.

With the help of our guide on how to break in shoes, you’ll discover tips for the perfect fit. Whether it’s about preventing blisters or finally making those classy boots feel like they were made for you, the information coming up will change how you wear your shoes.

Choose the Right Size and Fit

Before you even start thinking about breaking in those new kicks, make sure you’ve chosen the right size. It doesn’t matter how many hacks you try; if a shoe is a size off, it’ll never truly work. Here’s how to get the basics right:

• Measure your feet in the afternoon when they’re at their largest. (Yes, your feet swell throughout the day.)
• If you’re at a brick-and-mortar store, try on both shoes, not just one. Your left and right feet can be slightly different sizes.
• Don’t ignore discomfort when trying on shoes. They might be the wrong size.

Wear New Shoes Around the House (With Socks)

You might be excited to show off those new kicks, but don’t sprint out the door for a day of errands just yet. Instead, wear your new shoes around the house. Wear socks too, as they add a little extra snugness and reduce the risk of blisters while giving your shoes a gentle chance to stretch.

Here’s a handy tip: go for thicker socks if you can fit them in your shoes. You’ll create a little more pressure that helps shoes ease up their tightness faster.

Loosen Tight Spots With Shoe Stretchers or Rolled-Up Socks

If your shoes are too tight in certain spots, there’s a workaround. A wooden shoe stretcher or a handful of rolled-up gym socks might be all you need. Insert a shoe stretcher overnight to gently push out those problem spots. If you don’t have one, stuffing your shoes firmly with clean, rolled-up socks will also help expand snug shoes while you sleep.

Leave the items in overnight. You might need to do this several nights in a row for more stubborn shoe styles, like structured loafers or new leather, but you should eventually notice a better fit.

Try a Leather Conditioner for Stiff Shoes

Nothing dampens the excitement of new boots like stiff, unrelenting leather. Fortunately, a small amount of leather conditioner applied to your boots (especially the problem areas) softens the material and ramps up flexibility. Apply the conditioner with a soft cloth, focusing on spots that feel stiff or dig into your ankles. Leave to dry overnight.

Adjust Sandal Straps Gradually

If you just bought a fantastic new pair of sandals, especially strappy ones, take things step by step when breaking them in. Don’t wear straps on the tightest setting right away. Loosen them, wear the sandals for short periods at home, and gradually adjust the straps if necessary. This strategy minimizes friction and saves your feet from those dreaded red marks or blisters.

Start Slow With Sneakers

Those chunky sneakers might look ready for action, but your feet may disagree if you take them on a five-mile walk straight out of the box. Start small. Wear them for short errands or a quick walk, ideally for less than an hour at a time. Increase wear time as your feet adjust.

Use Heat and Thick Socks To Loosen Tight Shoes

Feeling a pinch but love the footwear style too much to give it up? Grab a hair dryer, slip on your thickest socks, and get to work. Aim your hair dryer (set on low) at the tight spots while flexing your feet. The heat encourages the material to mold to your foot shape. Keep the shoes on as they cool for an even better fit. This trick works wonders for leather and synthetic materials alike. Try it for a few rounds if needed.

Apply Blister Pads and Moleskin to Hot Spots

Even the best shoes can have one or two problem areas that rub your skin and leave painful blisters. Blister pads and moleskin are MVPs here. Layer them over any spot that feels hot or tender before you put the shoes on.

Moleskin works best when you cut it to fit. Apply it as soon as you notice irritation, and carry extra blister pads so you can switch them out as needed during the day.

Stretch Boots With Damp Towels

If your new boots feel too snug, use a tried-and-true hack. Take a clean towel, lightly dampen it, and stuff it firmly into your boots. Leave the towel in your shoes overnight. The moisture helps the boot material relax and stretch, giving your feet a bit more wiggle room. Be careful not to soak the boots or towel, though. Too much moisture can warp the shape or damage the material.

Rotate Your Shoes

No one wants to part ways with their cool new Corkys footwear too soon, but your feet might need a break! Alternate between wearing new shoes and old favorites. This strategy helps you avoid sore spots and lets your feet relax. Make a plan, like one day on and one day off until your feet and shoes find their groove.

Keep Moving and Give It Time

Finally, don’t rush things. Walk a bit every day in your new shoes, but listen to your body. If you’re in pain, swap the shoes for something comfier for the rest of the day. Over time, your shoes will feel so comfortable you might forget you’re wearing them!

Step Into Style With Shoes That Look (and Feel) Great

Remember, your feet are as unique as your style, and finding that sweet spot of comfort and chicness is worth every step. The next time you ask yourself how to break in shoes, these tips for the perfect fit will have your back (and your toes).

Need a little more foot pampering? We add new shoes and clothing items to our website every Thursday and Sunday night, so remember Arrow 22’s online boutique the next time you want to refresh your closet!