How to Break in New Shoes
We’ve all been there – you buy a new pair of shoes, only to find that they’re uncomfortable and cause blisters and sore feet. Breaking in new shoes can be a frustrating and painful process, but it doesn’t have to be. In this article, we’ll provide you with some tips on how to break in new shoes effectively and make them comfortable to wear. Whether you’ve bought new sneakers, boots, or high heels, these tips will help you avoid the pain and discomfort of wearing new shoes. So let’s dive in and learn how to break in new shoes the right way.
Choose the Right Shoes
One of the most important steps in breaking in new shoes is selecting the right pair in the first place. Proper fit is key to ensuring comfort, so taking the time to find the right pair of shoes is essential. Here are some tips to help you choose the right shoes:
Measure your feet
Before you buy new shoes, measure your feet to ensure you get the right size. Our feet change over time, so don’t assume that you’re the same size as you were a few years ago. Measure both feet, as one foot may be slightly larger than the other. Find out how to measure your feet.
Try shoes on at the end of the day
Feet tend to swell throughout the day, so it’s best to try on shoes at the end of the day when your feet are at their largest. This will ensure that you get a good fit.
Walk around in the shoes
Take a walk around the store to see how the shoes feel. Make sure there’s enough space in the toe box and that the heel isn’t slipping out of the shoe. If you plan on wearing the shoes for extended periods, make sure they’re comfortable and supportive.
By taking the time to choose the right shoes, you’ll be well on your way to breaking them in effectively and avoiding discomfort.
Wear Them Around the House
Once you’ve found the right pair of shoes, it’s time to start breaking them in. One of the best ways to do this is by wearing them around the house. This will help your feet get used to the shoes gradually and avoid discomfort. Here are some tips to help you wear new shoes around the house:
Wear socks
Wearing socks with your new shoes can help reduce friction and prevent blisters.
Walk on different surfaces
Walking on different surfaces can help the shoes stretch and mold to your feet. Try walking on carpet, hardwood floors, and tile to help the shoes adjust.
Take breaks
It’s important to take breaks when wearing new shoes to avoid overusing your feet. Take the shoes off and rest your feet periodically.
By wearing your new shoes around the house, you’ll be able to break them in gradually and ensure they’re comfortable to wear. Don’t be afraid to take your time and wear them for short periods until they feel comfortable.
Use Inserts or Insoles
If you’re still experiencing discomfort after wearing your new shoes around the house, using inserts or insoles can help. Inserts and insoles can provide additional cushioning and support, making your shoes more comfortable to wear. Here are some tips for using inserts or insoles with your new shoes:
Choose the right inserts or insoles
There are many different types of inserts and insoles available, so it’s important to choose the right ones for your shoes. Look for ones that fit properly and provide the right level of support. Read more about the popular insoles from SuperFeet.
Try different materials
Inserts and insoles come in different materials, including gel, foam, and cork. Try different materials to see which ones work best for your feet and shoes.
Replace them regularly
Inserts and insoles can wear out over time, so it’s important to replace them regularly to ensure they’re still providing adequate support and cushioning.
By using inserts or insoles, you can make your new shoes more comfortable and avoid discomfort. Don’t be afraid to try different types and replace them regularly to ensure they’re still effective.
Stretch Them Out
If your new shoes still feel a little tight or uncomfortable, you may need to stretch them out. This can help to make them fit better and reduce discomfort. Here are some tips for stretching out your new shoes:
Use a shoe stretcher
Shoe stretchers are designed to stretch out shoes to make them more comfortable. You can find shoe stretchers online or at your local shoe store.
Use the freezer method
This may sound strange, but placing your shoes in the freezer overnight can help to stretch them out. Fill a plastic bag with water, place it inside your shoes, and put them in the freezer. As the water freezes, it will expand and stretch out your shoes.
Wear thick socks
Another way to stretch out your shoes is to wear thick socks and walk around in them. The extra thickness of the socks will help to stretch out the shoes.
Be sure to use the right method for your shoes and don’t overstretch them, as this can damage the material.
Take Them for a Test Drive
Once you’ve broken in your new shoes around the house and added any necessary inserts or insoles, it’s time to take them for a test drive. This means wearing them out for a longer period and testing them in different situations. Here are some tips for taking your new shoes for a test drive:
Start with short trips
It’s best to start with shorter trips to give your feet time to adjust to the shoes. Wear them for a few hours at a time and gradually increase the duration of your outings.
Walk on different surfaces
Walking on different surfaces can help you see how the shoes perform in different environments. Try walking on concrete, grass, and gravel to see how the shoes feel.
Bring a backup pair
If you’re planning on wearing your new shoes for an extended period, it’s a good idea to bring a backup pair just in case. This way, you’ll be prepared if your feet start to hurt or if the shoes don’t perform as expected.
