How to Make Flats Smaller

Avoid the pain of over-sized shoes.

Wearing shoes that are too big for you can be unsightly and painful. Shoes that are too long often bend at the tip when you walk, causing creasing around the toes and making a brand new pair of shoes looks old and worn quickly. Over-sized shoes also allow the balls and heels of your feet to rub against the inside of the shoe causing blisters that hurt every time you take a step. But finding a shoe that is a half size too big doesn't have to be a deal-breaker. There are a few tricks you can try to get the perfect fit.

Instructions

1. Wash them. If you are trying to shrink shoes that are made of canvas, washing and drying them will make them fit tighter.

2. Wear thick socks or wear two pair of socks to make shoes feel snug around your feet and provide cushion for the balls of your feet.

3. Add gel inserts to the bottom of the shoe. Not only will inserts take up space in the shoes, they will add additional comfort to the balls and heel of your feet.

4. Add heel grips. Heel grips are used to keep narrow heels from slipping in and out the back of the shoe. Eliminating this problem can prevent painful blisters on the back of your feet.

5. Stuff the tip of your shoes with newspaper if they are too long. If you are worried that newspaper may be uncomfortable, use a soft fabric or cotton balls to take up space and cushion your toes.

References

• Glamour; Style Problems Solved: My Shoes Are Too Big; Tracey Lomrantz; January 2010