How to Stretch Leather Shoes - A Complete Guide
Leather shoes are often considered a staple in any wardrobe, offering both style and durability.
However, breaking in new leather shoes can be a painful and uncomfortable process. But, knowing the right techniques on how to stretch leather shoes can make the process much easier and more comfortable.
Learn how to stretch your leather shoes effectively with our complete guide.
Why Do You Need To Stretch Leather Shoes?
Breaking in or stretching your leather shoes is a must especially when you want to ensure comfort and prevent blisters. Here are several reasons why:
Leather is a Natural Material that Stiffs
Leather, especially genuine leather, is a natural material that can often be stiff initially. Stretching helps to soften this naturally robust fabric, making it more comfortable for extended wear.
Desired Fit
You want to stretch your shoes to achieve a better fit. No two feet are the same, and certain areas of the shoes may not initially accommodate your unique foot shape. Stretching can help to mould the shoe to your foot, providing a custom fit.
Improved Aesthetics
Stretching gives your shoes a better look. It aligns the leather with the contours of your feet, enhancing the shoe's aesthetics over time.
Leather Preservation
Finally, the stretching process is beneficial for the material itself. It makes the leather more supple and durable, thereby prolonging the lifespan of your shoes.
Different Methods to Stretch Leather Shoes at Home
In general, there are four ways to stretch and soften your leather shoes at home. Here are the methods in detail:
Use Shoe Stretch Spray
A leather stretching spray is a handy tool that is specifically designed to make the process of stretching shoes easier.
This spray, usually made up of gentle components that are safe for all types of leather, works by seeping into the leather and softening it, thereby making it more pliant for the stretching process. Not only does it help in modifying the size of the shoe, but it also preserves the leather, making it last longer.
How to use a Leather Stretching Spray
- Step 1: Choose the Right Stretch Spray: Ensure you purchase a professional shoe stretch spray suitable for the leather type of your shoes. Not all sprays are made the same, and some might not be suitable for certain types of leather.
- Step 2: Apply the Spray: Shake the can well and apply the leather stretch spray generously to the areas of the shoe you wish to stretch. Make sure the leather is thoroughly damp but not soaking wet.
- Step 3: Put on the Shoes: Immediately after applying the spray, put on a pair of thick socks and then wear the shoes. This will help stretch the leather. Remember, the leather may feel a bit tight at first.
- Step 4: Walk Around: Walk around in the shoes for about 20-30 minutes. The heat from your feet will help the leather stretch and mold to the shape of your foot.
- Step 5: Let the Shoes Dry: Finally, remove the shoes and let them dry. Repeat the process if necessary.
While the spray makes the leather more malleable for the stretching process, care should be taken while using it for the best results. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions to ensure the longevity of your shoes.
Using a Shoe Stretcher
Another effective method to stretch your leather shoes at home involves using a mechanical device known as a shoe stretcher. This device is designed to stretch the width and length, or a specific area of the shoe. Shoe stretchers come in different sizes, and the choice of which to use depends on the size of your shoe as well as the area that needs stretching.
Here's how to use a shoe stretcher:
- Step 1: Choose the Right Shoe Stretcher: Shoe stretchers come in various sizes to cater to different shoe sizes. Ensure you select the correct size for your shoes.
- Step 2: Insert the Shoe Stretcher: Place the shoe stretcher inside the shoe. Make sure it fits snugly to ensure effective stretching.
- Step 3: Adjust the Shoe Stretcher: Turn the handle of the shoe stretcher slowly to start the stretching process. The mechanical device is designed to stretch the width and length of the shoe, or target specific areas that may be causing discomfort.
- Step 4: Wait: Leave the stretcher in the shoe for at least 24 hours for the best results. This allows the shoe stretcher to stretch the leather and make it more pliable and comfortable.
- Step 5: Check the Fit: Remove the stretcher and try on the shoe. If it's still tight, repeat the process.
Remember, don't stretch your shoes too much as it can damage the leather. Always start with a smaller stretch and then gradually increase it if necessary. The aim is to create a more comfortable fit, not an oversized shoe.
Freezing Shoes Method
This might sound a little unconventional, but freezing is another method that can be used to stretch your new pair of leather boots or shoes. Here is how it works - water freezes and expands, and this property can be leveraged to stretch your footwear.
Here's how to use the Freezing Method:
- Step 1: Fill Freezing Bags with Water: Take two resealable bags, fill them partially with water, and seal them tightly. These will serve as your freezing bags.
- Step 2: Insert Bags into the Shoes: Insert the bags with water into the shoes. Make sure they cover the areas that need stretching.
- Step 3: Place Shoes in the Freezer: Now, place your shoes with the bags in them into the freezer. As the water freezes, it will expand and thus stretch the shoe.
- Step 4: Wait: Let the shoes stay in the freezer until the water turns into ice. This is usually for about 8-12 hours.
- Step 5: Thaw and Dry: Remove the shoes from the freezer and allow them to thaw. Once the ice melts, take out the bags and let your shoes dry completely.
- Step 6: Try the Shoes: Try on the shoes to check if the stretch is sufficient. If they still feel tight, you may repeat the process.
This method works well because the water, when frozen, expands and stretches the shoe. This will keep the leather of your shoes from shrinking back to its original form. However, care should be taken not to overfill the bags, as too much water might result in the bags breaking and your shoes getting wet, which could damage the leather.
The Sock Method
Arguably the oldest and most straightforward method to stretch leather shoes is the sock method. This method involves wearing a pair of shoes with a thick pair of socks, which can help expand the shoe and soften the leather. To use this method, follow the steps below:
Using the Sock Method:
- Step 1: Wear Thick Socks: Put on a thick pair of socks. The thicker the socks, the better they'll be at stretching your shoes.
- Step 2: Put on the Shoes: With the socks on, wear the pair of shoes you want to stretch. The shoes may feel very tight at this point.
- Step 3: Use Heat: Apply some heat to the tight areas of the shoe using a hairdryer for about 30 seconds. The heat will help the leather expand and soften.
- Step 4: Walk Around: Walk around in the shoes for a while. The heat, combined with the thickness of the socks, will stretch and mold the leather to the shape of your feet.
- Step 5: Let the Shoes Cool: Allow your shoes to cool while still wearing them. Once cool, the leather will retain the shape of your foot.
- Step 6: Check the Fit: Remove the socks and try on the shoes again to see if they're comfortable. If not, repeat the process.
Closing Thoughts
Stretching your leather shoes can be a daunting especially if you don't have any idea on how to go about it. However, with the methods outlined in this guide, you can easily stretch your shoes and make them more comfortable to wear. Always remember to take caution when using any stretching method and follow the instructions carefully for the best results.
Don't forget to also regularly clean your leather shoes using proper cleaning products and store them properly to maintain their quality and longevity.
Stone and Clark offers Leather Shoe Shine Kit that comes with everything you need for proper leather shoe care.
