How to Expand Leather Boots

Leather stretches according to how it is worn.

It is often hard to tell when leather boots fit appropriately while trying them on. In a boot store, temptations to purchase boots too small, too narrow or too tight around the calves, especially for women, are ever persistent, causing the boots to need expansion later, once the real wearing time arises. Many myths surround the expansion of leather boots, from filling them with grain bags to water. Never fill leather boots with water or grain. No shortcut exists when it comes to leather boot expansion. Wear them often, shaping them to your feet.

Things You'll Need

• Foam-rubber insoles
• 2 pairs of cotton socks

Instructions

1. Try on several boot sizes to ensure a solid fit before you purchase. Try them on barefooted as well as with socks, as you will be able to tell where the boots pinch or rub against your skin while your bare foot is within the boots. Beginning with the correct boot size is the proper way to expand them to fit your feet accordingly.

2. Wear rubber insoles in other shoes you own, such as sneakers or loafers to break the insoles in. Before you wear your leather boots, slip the rubber insoles into them. The insoles will help to make the boots more comfortable while you are expanding them.

3. Wear two pairs of cotton socks as you break in the leather boots. Avoid wearing wool or synthetic socks within new leather boots. Cotton fabric is breathable and will allow the leather to best move with your foot, helping the leather to expand. If you are a female and plan to wear hose beneath the boots, wear two pair of cotton socks over the hose within the boots until the boots have expanded to your desired fit.

4. Wear your boots often with the socks. The boots will expand as you walk around in them. Be patient and give it time. Give a good pair of leather boots your time and effort, and they will pay you back with longevity and comfortable fit.

Tips & Warnings

• Apply a waterproofing solution to leather boots before wearing them outside the first time.

• Don't attempt to expand a leather boot by use of a shoe tree or shoe stretcher, as this method could split your boot. Take the boots to a shoemaker if this method is needed.

• Be wary of alcohol-based leather expansion products. They may stretch the leather but the leather may breakdown at a much faster rate.

References

• Mother Earth News: Caring for Leather Footwear
• Mother Earth News: Caring For Leather Footwear: Page 2