How to break in leather work boots. Leatherwork boots are known for their durability and protection. They are essential devices in a number of different industrial environments, ranging from construction sites to warehouses.
These sturdy books can last for many years with proper care and are a worthwhile investment.
That said, work boots need to be broken in to be comfortable. Whether they have steel toecaps or are made from finished leather, new shoes that come directly from the manufacturer can be very uncomfortable because they are not yet molded to fit your foot. This leads to pinched toes and painful chafing.
8 Ways to Break in New Leather Work Boots
#1. Wear Them Around the House
One of the easiest and cheapest methods is to just wear them around the house for a few hours every day. It should be noted that work shoes should be purchased well in advance for the break-in period.
thick socks During this time, the shoes can be worn for a few hours every day with thick socks or several layers of socks. This stretches the fibers in problem areas, such as your toe.
This is especially effective on steel-toed boots. A few hours a day gives the boots plenty of time to adjust to your toes as you get used to the feel of steel.
If flexibility is an issue, bend the body of the boot back and forth before putting it on each day. The sole will become more flexible over time.
#2. Stick or Stretcher
boot stretcher This method corrects specific problem areas. It is often used to prevent the entrapment of certain toes. Requires the use of a large stick or shoe tree.
Shoe trees can be bought quite easily and will help loosen the fibers. Simply place the stretcher in the case and spread it out to fit snugly.
A large stick, such as a broomstick, provides greater accuracy. Place the tip of the stick where you squeeze. Then fold the boot over the stick to stretch the specific point.
* You should be able to see a slight bulge in the leather.
#3. Soak in Warm Water
hot and cold water Hot water is a great way to loosen the fibers of the leather. It is used by members of the military to get that perfect comfortable fit.
Depending on the leather, soak the shoes in a bucket of warm water for about 30 minutes.
Finished leather may take longer to fully soak. It is important to keep a close eye on the boots during this process. Too many weeks can lead to warping and permanent damage.
After soaking, remove boots and excess water. Then put them on with socks and wear them for up to an hour. During this time, the fibers will mold to the shape of your foot for a precise fit. They dry out a bit when you use them. When completely dry, the molded shape is retained.
#4. Freezing Water
This method aims to stretch the leather using frozen water. This should be completed with fully waterproof boots and under a watchful eye. Depending on the quality of the leather, the shoe can be damaged if not taken care of.
Simply fill a plastic bag with water and squeeze out the excess air before closing it. Place the water bag in the boot and place it where the boots pinch. Then place the boots in a freezer. When the water turns to ice, it expands and pushes the leather out.
Once completely frozen, allow the ice to thaw before removing the bag. Boots should be better and more comfortable.
#5. Moisturizer
Apply a moisturizer to the boots if you have hair lotion or conditioner that you can use on the boots to soften the fibers. It is an incredibly cheap and effective method that is used by many men. All you need is a little moisturizing cream on top.
Moisturizer should be applied evenly to problem areas and allowed to dry. It is better to let them air dry so that the moisturizer has time to absorb slowly.
After the moisturizer has soaked, put on the boots and wear them around the house for a few hours. The softened fibers slowly mold to the shape of your foot. The process can be repeated and even used in conjunction with the stick method or shoe trees.
#6. Oil Leather Conditioner
As with the hydration method above, an oil conditioning treatment of leather is intended to make the leather fibers more malleable. The main difference is the product used and the application.
Oil Leather Conditioner is specially made to break in and maintain new shoes for lasting durability. Alternatively, vision oil can be used.
In this method, a thick layer of conditioning oil is applied to the entire top or to a specific area that is causing problems. This oil must be left overnight to soak into the leather fibers.
The next day, just wipe off any excess oil that hasn't soaked into the leather and apply. The area where the oil is applied should be more flexible and comfortable.
#7. Just Add Heat
The heat loosens the fibers of the leather and makes it much more flexible. It's a quick option that can work wonders if you're short on time. With the boots on, simply use a hairdryer to apply heat to the problem area. The dryer can be aimed at a specific area that you squeeze to loosen it and allow the leather to harden very quickly.
A blow dryer to apply heat It is important to be careful with this method to ensure that excess heat does not cause problems.
A simple hairdryer is a safe method that doesn't produce much heat and focuses accurately. It can also be used with moisturizers for quick results.
#8. Use an Insole
Insoles for work shoes If you are short on time, insoles are ideal for shaping new work shoes and making them comfortable to wear. There is a wide variety of insoles on the market today, ranging from thick gel to thin cushioning. Just choose an insole that suits you and that is designed for work shoes.
The template makes the fit of the boots more bearable and promotes flexibility in the sole. Due to this extra cushioning in the sole, it adapts better to your foot over time.
Additional Tips and Tricks:
- Reserve as much time as possible for the run-in period.
- Use a variety of methods to break in boots gradually for best results.
- Wear moleskins to protect your feet from chafing in problem areas while breaking in.
- Always try boots before buying. Wear horrible socks if you're trying to give yourself a little more room.
These methods can help you get used to new work boots for a comfortable and secure fit. While some methods are more effective than others, it's all about finding an option that fits your needs and the specific materials of the shoe.
Of course, it is good to be careful to avoid damage. After the break-in period, the boots are safe to wear for years.