How to Stretch Shoes Out: 4 Big Tips Every One Should Know

If you’ve ever been in a situation where a pair of shoes that you liked weren’t offered in your size, there’s a chance that you’ve purchased a slightly smaller size and convinced yourself that you’ll be able to either deal with the discomfort or make those shoes fit! Whether your feet are longer or wider than usual or you simply needed those shoes in a pinch, some of these tips may help. So, how to stretch shoes out to get a more comfortable experience?

First off, keep in mind that some shoes are more willing to stretch than others. Be patient, it might take a little extra effort, but hope is not lost. Now, try these tools that can help you stretch your shoes out! They are easy to find at home or buy in stores.

How to Stretch Shoes Out

Shoe Tree

Using a shoe tree can help your leather maintain its uniform shape while also stretching it to your desired width. There are standard shoe trees that are one size, but there are also adaptable shoe trees that can be stretched with a simple twist of the handle. The adjustable shoe trees can stretch shoes in both width and length. Some shoe trees even come with inserts that will mimic bunions, giving you extra room in all the right places!

Castor Oil/Vaseline

Rubbing some castor oil or Vaseline into your shoes can help relax the leather, giving you more flexibility when you stuff the shoe with either paper or a shoe tree. However, be careful of how much oil or jelly you use as the oily nature can cause the leather to darken in color.

Freeze them!

While it might sound a little crazy, this is a tried-and-true method of shoe stretching. Take a few plastic bags, fill them about halfway with water, and then shove the bags into your shoes. When the water freezes, take the shoes out of the freezer and put them on with a pair of thick socks. Although the cold sensation may be less than desirable, it won’t last long and the leather will start to take the shape of your foot as it warms.

Break out your hairdryer!

If you’re less than fond of putting your shoes in the freezer, this is another great solution that will also be a great help. Once again, put on some thick socks and put your shoes on. Using medium heat on your hairdryer, heat the leather and it will soften. When done, you can polish your shoes to give them a little extra moisture.

How about Sneakers?

Also hairdryer! Put on thick socks, get your feet into those shoes that should now be even snugger, and use medium heat to warm the shoes. Try to keep the hairdryer moving consistently across the shoes so that one area doesn’t get too much attention. After about 30 seconds of this heating process, walk around in the shoes to stretch them a bit. You can continue to repeat this process until you find yourself comfortable.

It can be frustrating, but it’s normal for your feet to continue to change as time goes on. On top of getting flatter, there are also other aspects of your feet that can change over time such as the development of hammertoes and bunions. Here’s the kicker, wearing shoes that are too snug can cause deformities, making it harder to find shoes that fit well. This can be a vicious cycle, but luckily, you now know how to stretch shoes!

How to Stretch Shoes Out FAQs

Do shoes stretch over time?

Yes! If you’re willing to sit in discomfort for a little while, the more you wear your shoes, the sooner they will stretch to fit your foot perfectly. To speed up the process a little bit and avoid some discomfort, you can put on a pair of thick socks (I prefer fuzzy socks) and put your shoes back on.

*Side note: Try to use socks that you aren’t worried about ruining as there’s a chance that leather that has been treated could rub off.

How much does it cost to stretch your shoes out?

If you’re not comfortable trying to stretch your shoes yourself, there are professional options. Fortunately, those options aren’t unreasonably priced either! When all is said and done, the service may run you about $15-$35.

What home remedy can I use to stretch my shoes?

How to stretch shoes with home remedy? Believe it or not, a solution to your dilemma may be in your house as we speak! If you have some rubbing alcohol laying around, you can use it to give your shoes a looser fit. Using a cloth, you can apply rubbing alcohol to your shoes. When they dry, start the application process again, put your thick socks and shoes on, and then continue to apply the alcohol until you get your desired fit.

Why are my shoes getting tight?

A lot of people expect to always be the same shoe size once they stop growing, but that’s not the case! Being that we spend so much of our lives on our feet, it only makes sense that our feet would start to change over time. Supporting our weight so consistently, our feet can get flatter over time and therefore wider.

What sprays can help stretch the shoes out?

There are some sprays such as Kiwi Select Universal Shoe Stretch, and Cadillac Shoe Stretch, among many other sprays that can help you. Generally, you spray both the inside and the outside of your shoes and allow the foam to sit for a few minutes while it absorbs into the material. Once the foam is absorbed, put the shoes on and continue breaking them in. This spray works by giving the leather extra elasticity. If it doesn’t work after the first time, this process can be repeated as needed.