How to Stretch Shoes so They Fit Better Than Ever (2024)

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There’s an easy cure for a tight spot or a pinched toe.

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Lisa Milbrand

How to Stretch Shoes so They Fit Better Than Ever (1)

Lisa Milbrand

Lisa Milbrand has more than 20 years of experience as a lifestyle writer and editor, writing thousands of articles on topics that help people live better and healthier lives for Real Simple, Parents, and dozens of other top publications.

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Updated on August 29, 2022

How to Stretch Shoes so They Fit Better Than Ever (2)

We're all guilty of keeping shoes that are just a tiny bit too narrow along the sides, or ones that pinch our toes a little too much. Fortunately, you don't have to suffer too-tight shoes—as long as you only need a 1/2 inch or less of room, you can try one of these tricks to help stretch your shoes to make them fit your feet like a glove. Of course, if you're trying to squeeze your feet into a shoe three sizes too small, a la Cinderella's stepsisters, you're better off just buying a new pair.

Keep in mind that these tips for stretching shoes work better on natural materials such as canvas and leather—shoes made of polyurethane and other synthetic materials tend to shrink back to their original size over time.

How to Clean White Shoes

How to Stretch Shoes

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Apply a little heat

To stretch leather shoes, a blow dryer and thick socks are all you need to address too-tight shoes. Put on a thick pair of socks with the shoes, then aim your blow dryer at the tight spots, using medium heat to soften the shoe until it fits comfortably. It usually takes a couple of minutes to stretch the shoe a little more (just keep the hair dryer's nozzle moving to avoid damaging the leather).

Tip: Apply a little leather conditioner after you stretch your shoes to help keep the leather in tip-top shape.

RELATED: How to Make Any Type of Shoe More Comfortable

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Use ice to stretch your shoes

Ice can be just as effective as heat for fixing a tight pair of shoes. Partially fill a sandwich bag with water and place it in the area where the shoe is snug. Put the shoe in the freezer. As the water freezes into ice, it'll expand and help stretch the shoe out.

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Invest in a shoe stretcher

If you regularly have problems with pinching in your shoes, a shoe stretcher may be a wise investment. (High-rated shoe stretchers on Amazon come in around the $20 mark.) Shoe stretchers can be used to stretch the length of your shoes or widen them, and you'll even find specialized stretchers that can stretch out the calf in a boot or that work specifically with heels.

To use a shoe stretcher, start by spraying the parts of the shoe you want to stretch with a shoe stretching solution, which can help relax the fibers of the leather or canvas so they can expand. Put the stretcher into the shoe so that it's tight against the toe box. Turn the handle until you see the shoe expand and leave it for six to eight hours. Try it on to see if it fits—if it doesn't, turn the handle a few more times and repeat the process until it does. It may take a few days to get you to the size you need.

If you have specific spots that need a bump out (to stop rubbing on a bunion, for instance), most stretchers come with small plugs you can place in with the stretcher to give you a little extra space in just the right spot.

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Take it to the pros

If it's a particularly expensive or special pair of shoes and you don't quite trust your shoe stretching skills, a professional shoe repair shop can do the adjustments for you. They know exactly how to stretch your shoes so you get the perfect fit.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How much bigger can you stretch a shoe?

    If your new shoes are too snug, it is possible to stretch them to a half or a whole size bigger. You can do this through various methods, including ones that apply cold or heat.

  • Can you stretch your shoes overnight?

    While it is possible to stretch some shoes overnight, most shoes take about 24-48 hours to stretch.

  • Can you stretch all types of shoes?

    While most shoes will stretch and mold to fit your feet over time, many can be manually stretched. Leather shoes are easiest to stretch, but most fabrics and materials can also be stretched. Faux leather and vinyl shoes do not respond as well to stretching due to the make up of the material, which is better at holding its shape.

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How to Stretch Shoes so They Fit Better Than Ever (2024)

FAQs

How can I stretch my shoes to fit better? ›

Ideally, put on a few pairs of thick socks. If you don't have thick socks, put on several pairs of thinner socks or men's socks to get the same effect. Put your socks on and squeeze into the shoes. Using a hairdryer to apply heat, blow dry the areas of the shoe that feel tight for about 20-30 seconds at a time.

How to make a homemade shoe stretcher? ›

Fill a Ziploc bag one-third of the way with water. Then secure it tightly. If you're scared of getting water all over an expensive pair of shoes, double bag the water. Insert the bag into your shoe, making sure to mold the bag to fit into every corner.

How to loosen tight shoes hack DIY? ›

It is worth noting however that the following shoe stretching techniques will vary for different materials and shoe types.
  1. Wear your shoes around the house.
  2. Layer up on socks.
  3. Apply a little heat.
  4. Stretch your shoes in the freezer.
  5. Invest in a shoe stretcher.
  6. Soak them in warm water.
  7. Soak them in cold water.
  8. Apply Vaseline.

What can I use instead of a shoe stretcher? ›

7 ways to stretch out your shoes
  • Wear them in the evening. If your shoes are just a little uncomfortable, try wearing them around the house. ...
  • Thick socks and a blow dryer. ...
  • Frozen zip-close bag. ...
  • The peeled potato trick. ...
  • Adjustable shoe trees. ...
  • Shoe stretch sprays and liquids. ...
  • Find a shoe repair professional.
Apr 9, 2019

How does shoe stretch spray work? ›

Shoe Stretch Spray

Stretch spray works by relaxing the leather fibres to allow them to be manipulated and stretched. This spray is only designed for smooth leather and suede/nubuck leather. 3a. Put the shoe on & walk to allow the expansion to occur in the required areas.

Does hot water stretch shoes? ›

The ultimate cost-effective way to stretch leather boots is to soak them in warm water for up to an hour, until they are drenched. Once your boots are wet, wear them until they are dry. This will help them stretch to the shape of your feet.

How to stretch shoes with a hair dryer? ›

Apply a little heat

Put on a thick pair of socks with the shoes, then aim your blow dryer at the tight spots, using medium heat to soften the shoe until it fits comfortably. It usually takes a couple of minutes to stretch the shoe a little more (just keep the hair dryer's nozzle moving to avoid damaging the leather).

Does wetting shoes stretch them? ›

Another method of stretching shoes is to wear your boots while they are wet. Although this method is very cost effective, it can be an extremely uncomfortable process. These are just a few of the ways that you can stretch your shoes to make sure they fit comfortably and look great.

How to make bigger shoes fit? ›

Wearing thicker socks or even doubling up with a couple of pairs is a genius way to make big shoes fit. The thicker the padding, the more tightly your feet will sit in the shoe.

How do you make your own shoe stretch spray? ›

Make a rubbing alcohol and water mixture with one part isopropyl alcohol and three parts water. Shake it up in a spray bottle and apply it to the areas of the boots where you want to stretch. After application, wear the boots with thick socks or use your hands to manipulate the area manually.

What tool is used to put on tight shoes? ›

A shoe horn is a tool used to help your foot glide easily into your shoe. Basically, the tool provides a smooth ramp that pulls back the heel of your shoe, stopping it from snagging your ankle as you slide your foot in. In the past, shoe horns earned their moniker because they were made from animal horns and hooves.

How to make your shoes fit bigger? ›

Wearing thicker socks or even doubling up with a couple of pairs is a genius way to make big shoes fit. The thicker the padding, the more tightly your feet will sit in the shoe.

How to stretch sneakers immediately? ›

There are a few ways you can stretch out sneakers so they fit your feet comfortably. If you're in a rush, you can freeze water inside the shoes or stretch them with heat. Or, simply wear them around your home for a few days, use special shoe-stretching inserts, or take the shoes to a cobbler for a professional fix.

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