If your favorite hiking boots have shrunk or your new leather boots are not quite right, there is no need to despair!You can stretch out the leather to make your boots fit like a dream.If you use a boot stretcher, wear extra socks, or even freeze your boots, you can save yourself the hassle of buying a new pair of shoes.
Step 1: You can expand the width of your boots with a 1-way stretcher.
It is important to choose the right stretcher based on how your boots need to be stretched.If your boots are too narrow, you can use a stretcher to make them wider.There are many shoe stores that sell boot stretchers.They cost around $20-40.You can increase your boot size by 1/2-1 with boot stretchers.You may need to buy a new pair of boots if they are too small.
Step 2: You can widen your boots with a 2-way stretcher.
The handle on the stretcher expands when you turn it.If your shoes are too narrow and you get blisters on your toes, this is a great option for you.Plastic stretchers are less expensive and easier to travel with than wooden ones, which add a nice scent to your boots.You can find reviews of different options when you make a purchase.
Step 3: You can widen the calves of your boots with a boot-calf stretcher.
You can either buy a boot-calf stretcher on its own, or you can get one that is combined with a 1- or 2-way stretcher to adjust the fit of the entire boot at once.If the calves of your boots are too tight, you can use a boot-calf stretcher.These instruments can be used for both hiking boots and slip-on boots.If the instep of a boot is too tight, there are stretchers that will target that area.
Step 4: If you buy 2 boot stretchers, you will have one for each boot.
Some sources sell boot stretchers individually.If you are ordering online, make sure to check to see if you will get 1 or 2 stretchers with your order.If you want to stretch each boot individually, you could purchase a single stretcher and use it over a few days.
Step 5: The boot stretcher needs to be unexpanded.
You have to put the stretcher in the boot first before you make any adjustments.If you want the tip of the toes to fit into the boot, you have to slide the stretcher into it.The same process will be used for a 1-way or 2-way stretcher.The calf stretcher needs to be put into the calf section of the boot.It shouldn't go into the section at all.
Step 6: When you see resistance in the leather, expand the boot stretcher.
The stretching process starts when the handle is turned clockwise.The leather is being stretched when you turn the handle.The width and length of the stretcher will be adjusted by the handle.If you are concerned about over stretching your boots, apply a light amount of pressure and increase the stretch each night until you get to the desired size.
Step 7: The boot stretcher should be left in place overnight.
It won't have much of an effect if you leave the stretcher in place for less time than this.You can leave the stretcher in place for longer periods.It may take a few nights to get your boots to the right size.Try the boots on every morning to see how much progress has been made.Stretching rubber boots is done with boot stretchers.
Step 8: For a custom fit, use a leather-stretching spray.
It is better to spray the inside of the boots rather than the outside.The leather could be discolored if you spray it outside.The boots need to stretch to fit your foot if you put them on while the spray is still wet.These products can be purchased at convenience stores and online.You can usually get a small bottle for $10 or less.
Step 9: You can stretch the calves by spraying alcohol and water inside your boots.
For calves that are a little too tight, this method works well.Rub alcohol and water into a spray bottle.Put the inside of your boots in the spray and wear them until they are completely dry.You can repeat it as often as you please.If you don't want to wear the boots while they're wet, use a calve-Stretcher in conjunction with the spray.
Step 10: You can stretch your wet boots to the size of your foot.
Put your boots in a bucket of water.Put the boots in the water for 5 minutes.Wear the boots for 30 minutes or until they have dried.While they are drying, massage a conditioning cream into the leather to keep their shape.You can buy leather conditioning cream online, at a shoe store, or at convenience stores.
Step 11: If you want to stretch the leather, wear thick socks.
It's best to use this method for shoes that are too tight or that pinch your toes.Put on 1-2 pairs of thick socks (as many as you can wear while still being able to put on the boots), then walk around in them for 30 minutes at a time.After 4-5 days of doing this, your boots should fit better than they did before.When you are at home, you will be able to take the boots off after 30 minutes.It wouldn't feel good to have to wear the extra socks all day long.
Step 12: You can change the leather with a hairdryer.
Put on a pair of thick socks.You can blow hot air on the boots with a hairdryer.It's important to not apply heat for too long as it could damage the leather.The heat relaxes the leather and makes it fit the thicker socks you put on.If necessary, you can repeat this process daily.
Step 13: You can expand your toe space by freezing the water in your boots.
Take a gallon-sized plastic bag and fill it with water.If you want the water to stay in the toes, you have to prop up the heel with something.The boots should be frozen overnight.Take the boots out of the freezer in the morning and let the water thaw before removing the plastic bag.As the water expands, it becomes a stretcher for your boots.