Putting on new shoes can be a delightful experience until the back starts rubbing uncomfortably against your heel, making them unbearable to wear. But fret not!
There are easy ways to soften the back of your shoes and make them comfier than ever. Keep reading to discover how and say goodbye to uncomfortable footwear forever!
How to Soften the Back of New Shoes
In this section, we’ll explore seven practical ways to soften the back of your new shoes in the comfort of your home. These techniques are both effective and convenient, enabling you to enjoy your
1. Wear Thick Padded Socks
Preparing your brand new shoes to wear can be an uncomfortable task, but there’s a simple and persuasive solution – thick socks. Slip them on before trying out your new kicks, and you’ll feel the difference instantly.
They not only soften up the back of the shoe in no time but also reduce any possible chaffing around your ankles, leading to a more pleasant experience overall. Remember to opt for loose-fitting socks so that your feet don’t get suffocated inside the shoe.
2. Use Zip Lock Bags to Freeze the Back Side of New Shoes
To break in new shoes comfortably, one can use a simple yet effective method involving zip lock bags. By following just a few easy steps, the back of stiff footwear can be easily softened for maximum comfort.
To start with, grab two Ziploc bags and fill them each a quarter of the way with clean water. Press out any excess air before sealing the bags tightly.
Next, gently place both sealed bags inside your shoes, making sure the opening of each bag faces towards the heel to avoid spills. Remember to double-check that there are no leaks before putting on your shoes!
To soften the back of your shoes, simply place them in the freezer overnight after putting both bags inside. The water will freeze and expand, thereby stretching out the leather. This simple yet effective trick can help you break in your new pair of shoes effortlessly.
In the morning, it’s essential to take your shoes out of the freezer and let them warm up before removing their ziplock bags. This approach will prevent any foot discomfort that may result from cold shoes.
Once your frozen shoes have thawed, check to feel if they have softened. If not, repeat the process until they achieve the desired softness for you.
3. Put Paper Towels Inside New Shoes
To help new shoes become more comfortable, one easy and effective technique is to insert paper towels inside them. This simple method can speed up the break-in process and have you walking in ease sooner. To utilize this strategy effectively, here are some tips to follow:
To begin, remove the laces and any removable items from your shoes like insoles. Next, stuff the back of each shoe with paper towels ensuring that every corner is filled up.
Press down on the paper towel to guarantee a thorough coverage before putting the laces back in and tying them up.
To help break in your new shoes, try filling them with paper towels and wearing them around the house for a few hours each day over several days.
For a quicker process, consider using a hair dryer on low heat to soften the leather before wearing the shoes. This can make them more comfortable for extended wear.
4. Use Rubbing Alcohol
Breaking in and softening new shoes can be made easier with rubbing alcohol. This method can be used alone or in conjunction with other techniques previously discussed.
Rubbing alcohol can help stretch tight leather shoes. To do so, apply a small amount of rubbing alcohol on a cotton pad and dab it onto the heel of the shoe.
Next, squeeze and press the back of the shoe to work in the alcohol. For even greater stretching, spray rubbing alcohol directly onto the leather and use your hands to gently stretch it out.
Rubbing alcohol can cause dryness to leather, requiring you to apply a conditioning agent on your shoes if used. To prevent cracking and dehydration, moisturizing creams or oils can be applied alternatively.
5. Use a Boot Stretcher
A boot stretcher can work wonders if you need to break in your new shoes. This amazing tool is specially designed to make your footwear comfier.
By simply inserting the stretcher into your shoe and twisting the handle till it presses against the leather, your shoe will expand and mold to fit your feet like a glove.
To protect your shoes, take it slow. If you feel any resistance, simply stop and leave the stretcher in overnight or for several hours, helping to soften and stretch the leather all-around.
For even more effectiveness, consider using a leather stretching solution as well when applying the stretcher.
6. Use Shoe Trees
Shoe lovers can keep their favorites looking new by using cedar shoe trees. These handy tools absorb moisture, while simultaneously keeping leather shoes in shape.
Make sure to use them regularly to maintain the right contours and curves. It’s a small investment that pays off big-time!
When you’re buying shoe trees, be sure to find ones that fit your shoes snuggly. This will help the tree perform its job perfectly.
After wearing your shoes, simply slip in the shoe tree and let it sit overnight or for a few hours. This nifty trick keeps moisture out and prevents leather from creasing.
7. Apply a Leather Conditioner
To properly soften the back of your new shoes, applying a leather conditioner at the finishing stage is advised. Be certain to select a quality footwear leather conditioner that is created especially for this purpose. It’s important to read and adhere strictly to the instructions before use.
After applying the conditioner, use a cloth to gently rub it into all areas of the shoe. For best results, pay special attention to the back of the shoe as that’s where maximum discomfort usually occurs. Ensure thorough coverage by checking all sections of the shoe carefully.
To soften and smooth your leather shoes, let the conditioner rest on them for 15 minutes. After that, simply wipe off any excess with a neat cloth. This will leave your shoes looking rejuvenated and feeling fresh.
Conclusion
If one desires an easy and effective method to soften the back of a new pair of shoes, wearing thick padded socks is the way to go. This persuasive approach guarantees that it will break in comfortably, allowing for a more relaxed walking experience.
One should keep in mind that utilizing certain methods like the ones involving extreme temperatures or chemicals carry potential risks. Hence, it becomes crucial to be knowledgeable about these hazards and take necessary precautions beforehand if one is planning on attempting any of the above-mentioned methods.
