Breaking in new shoes can often be a painful experience, but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’ve just purchased a new pair of heels, sneakers, or boots, there are several tips and tricks you can follow to make the process painless and ensure that your new shoes fit comfortably from the start.
Choose the Right Size
One of the most important factors in breaking in new shoes painlessly is to ensure that you’ve chosen the right size in the first place. It might be tempting to buy shoes that are a bit too small, thinking they will stretch out over time, but this can lead to discomfort and blisters. Make sure to try on shoes in the afternoon when your feet are slightly swollen and wear the type of socks you’ll typically be wearing with the shoes.
Wear Thick Socks
If your new shoes are slightly too big, wearing thick socks can help fill out the space and prevent your feet from sliding around too much. This can help prevent blisters and discomfort while you break in your shoes. Opt for socks that are made of natural materials like cotton or wool to allow your feet to breathe.
Use a Shoe Stretcher
Investing in a shoe stretcher can be a game-changer when it comes to breaking in new shoes. Shoe stretchers can help widen or lengthen tight spots in your shoes, making them more comfortable to wear. Simply insert the shoe stretcher into your shoes and leave them overnight to allow the material to stretch out gradually.
Apply Heat
Applying heat to your new shoes can help soften the material and make them more pliable. You can use a hairdryer on a low setting to warm up the shoes or apply heat with a hot washcloth. Once the shoes are warmed up, wear them around the house for a while to help them mold to the shape of your feet.
Wear Them Around the House
Before wearing your new shoes out for an extended period, it’s a good idea to break them in gradually by wearing them around the house. This will give your feet time to adjust to the new fit and will help soften the material of the shoes. You can also try wearing them with socks to prevent rubbing and discomfort.
Tape Problem Areas
If you notice certain spots in your new shoes that are rubbing or causing discomfort, you can use moleskin or athletic tape to protect your skin. Simply apply a small piece of tape to the problem area before wearing the shoes to provide a barrier between your skin and the shoe. This can help prevent blisters and make the breaking-in process more bearable.
Alternate Shoes
If you’re breaking in a particularly uncomfortable pair of shoes, try alternating them with a more comfortable pair. This will give your feet a break and prevent any pain or discomfort from becoming too severe. Gradually increase the amount of time you wear the new shoes until they feel comfortable enough to wear for extended periods.
Final Thoughts
Breaking in new shoes doesn’t have to be a painful process if you follow these tips and tricks. By choosing the right size, wearing thick socks, using a shoe stretcher, applying heat, wearing them around the house, taping problem areas, and alternating shoes, you can ensure that your new shoes fit comfortably and are ready to wear in no time. Remember, it’s important to listen to your body and give your feet time to adjust to the new shoes, so don’t rush the process. With a little patience and the right techniques, you can break in your new shoes painlessly and enjoy wearing them for years to come.
