Here are ways to change your shoes if they’re too tight, plus tips on how to avoid tight shoes and the problems they cause.
7 ways to stretch your shoes
1. Wear them at night
If your shoes are a little uncomfortable, try wearing them around the house. Give your feet a rest before trying this method, especially if it’s hot outside or you walked a lot that day. New shoes? Try to walk only on carpeted or carpeted floors so you can change your shoes if necessary.
2. Thick socks and a hair dryer
If the first method doesn’t work, it will provide more flexibility and help the shoes conform to your feet.
- Wear thick socks and lace up your shoes comfortably.
- Now try using a hair dryer for 20-30 seconds at a time in tight spots.
- Just use medium heat and keep the blow dryer moving to prevent your skin from drying out or burning too much.
It’s a good idea to apply a leather conditioner or moisturizer to your shoes after using this method.
3. Frozen ziplock bag
This method works best on non-leather shoes.
- Partially fill the ziplock bag with water.
- Place the partially filled bag in the shoe. Try to arrange it so that it is close to tight spots.
The water turns to ice and expands, stretching the custom-fit shoes.
4. The peeled potato trick
Peel the potato and shape it into the shape of the toe (the front of the shoe). Pat the potato dry with a paper towel and place it in the shoe overnight.
5. Adjustable shoe trees
Once a specialty of shoe repair shops, four-way adjustable shoe trees are now available for home use for under $25. There are versions for men’s and women’s shoes.
For a little more money you’ll find luxury versions in cedar or other types of wood and stainless steel.
Specially designed plugs (bulk plugs) can also target problem areas at the top of the nose.
Turn the adjustment knob on the shoe stretcher every 8-12 hours to continue stretching until you reach your desired length and width.
This method can be combined with shoe lasts and liquids. It is more suitable for leather shoes and sneakers.
6. Sprays and liquids to stretch shoes
A variety of liquids and sprays are available to stretch leather, fabric, and even vinyl. Spray them in tight spots and then walk around in your shoes.
These products can also be used in conjunction with adjustable shoe trees to give your shoes customized flexibility.
7. Find a shoemaker
Most cobblers or professional cobblers offer stretching services. They have machines and training to change shoes. Not only can a cobbler stretch your shoes, but they can also repair and refresh your shoes so they last longer. But these shops are hard to find in most areas due to lack of interest.
