The basic techniques for stretching shoes at home. How to stretch uncomfortable shoes: professional and folk methods

Universal options for stretching shoes

There are several ways to influence tight shoes that are suitable for products made from different materials (genuine leather, substitute, suede,). These stretching methods are also the safest for all possible models, except for fur-lined boots.

Special emollients for shoes. They are applied from the inside of the shoes to the problem areas. (If the shoes are made of genuine leather, then you can apply it on the outside). Immediately after treatment, the shoes should be worn with a tight toe box until the desired areas are dry, taking the shape of the foot. This stretching option can be repeated several times to achieve the best result.

Stretching with castor oil is also a versatile way to work on tight shoes. After oil treatment from the inside, you need to walk around in shoes for several hours. The oil softens problem areas, so that the shoe acquires the exact shape of the foot. This method is inconvenient because after the procedure, shoes that are greasy from the inside must be thoroughly cleaned. You can replace the oil with an alcohol solution (with water one to one), cologne, and even kerosene. But this method is even more inconvenient, since the smell after processing will persist for a long time.

How to stretch leather shoes

Genuine leather products are the strongest and most durable. Therefore, they can withstand more aggressive methods of influence. For example, high and low temperatures.

Under the influence of high temperature, genuine leather is able to expand and become softer. You can heat the shoes with a hair dryer, or hold them for a while over boiling water. Heated shoes should be worn until completely cool and dry. Warm skin immediately acquires the desired shape and retains it for a long time. After the procedure, so that the skin does not dry out, it should be treated with a nourishing shoe cream.

You can also stretch shoes made of genuine leather under the influence of low temperature, by freezing. First, plastic bags are inserted into the shoes (2 in each, in case the bag breaks). Then water is poured into the inner bag. It is necessary to ensure that large folds do not form inside the shoes; for this, the packages should be straightened as much as possible. Water should completely fill the space inside the shoe. The water bag is tied and the other is left open. In this position, the shoes are placed in the freezer at least overnight. During the freezing process, the water will gradually increase in volume, while stretching the shoes.

After processing the shoes in one way or another, it is necessary to apply the cream.

As a rule, shoes made of genuine leather can break in on their own after a few weeks of wearing. Therefore, perhaps you should not rush with such drastic stretching measures.

How to Stretch Faux Leather or Substitute Shoes

Such shoes are much more difficult to stretch than natural ones. When exposed to high temperatures, such products become unusable. Therefore, you need to act more carefully. The most effective and safest way to stretch is to fill with damp paper or cloth. The fabric (paper) must be moistened in hot water, quickly wrung out and filled in the interior of the shoe. When stuffing shoes, you need to carefully design the shape so that there are no distortions or deformations. Shoes with padding should be completely dry, and away from heat sources. This will take quite a lot of time. But, after drying, the shoes will retain their shape.

If non-natural shoes rub the heels, you can rub the inside of the back of the heel with paraffin or laundry soap.

How to stretch boots

For boots without fur lining, you can apply the same stretching methods as for shoes.

And lined boots can only be treated with leather softeners or oils on the outside. The safest way is to put on several pairs of socks (for greater effectiveness, you can soak them in hot water) and wear them for several hours. The procedure will have to be repeated several times, since it is impossible to wear wet winter boots with fur lining until completely dry. After taking off worn boots, you should immediately fill them with paper or pieces of soft cloth. Dry your boots naturally, away from heat.

How to stretch suede and patent leather shoes

Such products can only be processed from the inside. Any impact on the outer surface can damage the shoes.

You can use only stretching methods with a soft, gentle effect without thermal stress. It is best to break in shoes in warm, damp socks (previously soaked in hot water) until completely dry. Alternatively, padding with damp paper or cloth can also be used.

Suede shoes are quite elastic, so they can be broken in by simply wearing them at home often. After a while, she will ideally "sit down" in the shape of the leg.

How to buy the right shoes

How to avoid unwanted surprises when buying new shoes:

In the morning, almost every person's leg is more refined than in the afternoon. During the day, tired legs swell a little. Therefore, it is better to buy new shoes in the afternoon. Shoes purchased in the morning can be very tight in the evening.

When choosing a new pair of shoes, you also need to pay attention to the fullness, width and rise. Perhaps the model you like in the right size will not fit in other parameters. If your shoes are too tight, don't buy a size up. Calluses form on the feet from sliding back and forth.

You should not immediately go out into the street after buying a new pair of shoes. Before that, you need to walk around in a new dress at home for some time. If you feel discomfort, shoes that were not worn on the street can be returned or exchanged for a more comfortable model.

When stretching shoes in conditions, you need to act with extreme caution. You can stretch the shoes, while not harming them, only half the size, no more.

Genuine leather shoes are best suited for stretching. It is almost impossible to stretch shoes or sandals made of textile fabric, a strong impact will only break the structure of the material.

Cracks may appear on leatherette shoes after freezing or simply wet processing. Shoes made of poor-quality, poorly processed leather, after wet processing, will become even more rigid and warp when dried.

Very expensive shoes should not be stretched by yourself. It is better to contact the workshop, where special shoe lasts of different sizes are used.

Shoes that fit well when bought often turn out to be tight, narrow, or too stiff the next time you try them on. In such a new thing, the legs experience constant discomfort, swell, corns and calluses appear.

It will not be possible to return the purchase to the store if the pair has already been worn. In this case, the question arises, how to stretch the shoes to size? You can use the services of a workshop where there are special devices, or you can deal with the problem.

In the article, we will learn how to stretch shoes at home.

Before you apply folk methods to increase the size of a close couple, you should use professional tools. Manufacturers recommend a special shoe stretching spray.

For the desired effect, shake the can and spray the product on the surface of the shoes. Then you need to put on processed shoes and walk around the apartment in it for 15 minutes. If the shoes continue to cause discomfort to the feet, the process must be repeated.

Shoe departments and repair shops use wooden blocks to stretch shoes. They allow you to effectively change the size of the shoes in length, width, and also in the rise. Such stretchers can also be used.

It must be remembered that most methods for increasing the size apply to shoes made of genuine leather. Synthetic materials are difficult to stretch and are damaged during this process. Patent leather shoes should only be treated on the inside. The desired effect is easier to achieve if the pair needs to be stretched no more than one size. It should be borne in mind that the width of the shoes stretch better than the length.

Ways to stretch shoes

If a special tool for stretching shoes is missing or does not work, you can use one of the folk methods:

1. Liquid soap. It should be diluted in hot water in a ratio of 1: 4 and moisten the surface of the shoes well with the resulting solution. Wearing woolen socks on your feet, you need to put on a tight pair and walk in it until it dries.

2. alcohol solution, triple cologne or vinegar. After soaking 2 cotton swabs with any of these products, you need to put them inside the shoes, wrap each shoe in a bag and leave for 10 hours. To remove an unpleasant smell, shoes can be held on the balcony or outside for a day.

3. Freezing. You can fill a bag or balloon with water, put the shoes inside and place them in the freezer or in the snow. This method is suitable for those who do not know how to stretch the shoes in width. It should be remembered that frozen water can damage the material.

4. Castor or any vegetable oil. By lubricating tight shoes with oil inside and out, you can achieve not only an increase in size, but softening of the skin. However, this method has 2 side effects: an unpleasant odor will persist for a long time, and the product may darken.

5. Fen. Wearing tight shoes, you can warm them up outside with a hot hairdryer, and then walk in shoes until they cool completely. The process must be repeated several times.

6. Wet newspapers. Having tightly stuffed each shoe with them, you need to leave the shoes in this state until completely dry. In this case, it is impossible to dry the steam on a battery or heater: strong heat can deform the material.

7. Corn. It should be poured into each shoe, pour water and leave for a day. Having freed the shoes from the grain, you should put them on your feet and walk around in them until the discomfort disappears.

8. Paraffin. It is necessary to rub the inner surface of the shoes with a candle, leave it overnight, and clean it in the morning. It is important to use a regular candle, without dyes.

When choosing new shoes in a store or on the market, you should be very careful. It is necessary to look not only at the size and color of the shoes, but also at their width and rise. Having acquired a pair, you need to vilify it for some time at home, appreciating the convenience of a new thing. In case of any problems, the shoes will not be difficult to return to the seller.

Many people are familiar with the problem of shoes that are too tight. At the present time, it can be solved with the help of stretching. This is a device for mechanical action or a chemical agent. Both options are designed to correct men's, women's and children's shoes from different materials in width. Each of them has its own characteristics, requires proper application.

What is shoe stretch

Often people come across excellent shoes, ankle boots, boots that suit almost all parameters, but are a little tight. Stretching is a device or means by which you do not have to give up the option you like. It can be mechanical or chemical. Previously, shoes were stretched with various improvised means and even folk methods. Stretch marks help to adjust the shape or size of the pair as safely as possible.

Kinds

Previously, folk methods were used to correct the shape and size of the product, some of them are relevant now. Most popular options:

Treatment of the product with cologne or alcohol. A generous amount of liquid is applied to the inside and outside. It is convenient to do this with a spray gun. Then a pair is put on the feet on one or more socks, worn until completely dry.
Vaseline or castor oil. Any of these means need to process the product from the inside and out, then wear it for several hours. The oil will remove not only tightness, but also the creak of the sole.
Boiling water. In the absence of the above means, the steam can simply be treated with very hot water. The method is suitable only for natural leather products. You need to quickly pour boiling water over a couple, cool a little and put on a thin sock.
Vinegar. Suitable for processing individual pressure areas from the inside.
Wet newspapers. To stretch the product, fill it with damp paper from the inside and wait for it to dry completely in natural conditions.

Conventionally, all specialized stretch marks can be divided into two types: mechanical and chemical. They can be used both individually and in combination. Chemical stretchers are represented by sprays, foams, solutions. They are produced by companies that produce shoe care products. Apply such compounds should be according to the instructions indicated on the package. As a rule, the product should be sprayed on the pressure areas on the inside or outside, and then immediately put on shoes and walk in them for a certain amount of time. Benefits of household stretch marks:

Various options are available for natural and artificial leather, nubuck, suede, and other materials.
The tool does not leave marks in the form of stains, streaks, does not change color.
Not only stretch, but also soften the leather surface, avoiding cracks, tears.

Professional mechanical stretch marks are sold in shoe stores. You can also order them in the online store with delivery by mail from St. Petersburg, Moscow and other cities. They often make discounts, arrange promotions, sales. Shoe stretching machine - equipment in the form of a screw strut. It is made of wood, impact-resistant plastic, aluminum, and other materials. The device works very simply. The spacer must be inserted into a half-pair and the screw must be turned, setting a certain width. Advantages:

Mechanical stretch marks for shoes can be used in combination with chemical ones.
Some models, especially wooden ones, have holes on the surface and are equipped with plastic convex overlays. Holes are made in those places where, as a rule, shoes crush. By inserting overlays into them, you can adjust the shape to the individual characteristics of your own foot.
Shoe spacers can be used for seasonal storage. Just pair the fixtures and put them away for a few months. This will protect against creases and other deformations.

Mechanical stretch for shoes

Many manufacturers offer such adjustment devices. Mechanical stretching - screw strut. This device is inserted into a half-pair. The pad width is adjusted by a certain number of turns of the screw. The product is made of durable plastic, metal, wood. Often, holes are made on the surface and the spacer is completed with convex overlays. By inserting them into the holes, you can adjust the product to the individual structure of the foot.

For women's shoes

Manufacturers produce separate stretchers for different genders. Women should pay attention to such a device for stretching shoes:

model name: Avel, female mechanical stretcher, YF004/5;
price: 650 rubles;
characteristics: production - China, 1 product, temperature and shelf life are not limited, made of wood with metal and polyurethane elements;
pluses: stretches in length and width, all parameters are easily adjustable, high-quality performance, anatomical inserts for stretching separately in the area of the little finger, thumb joint, can be used both independently and in combination with a chemical stretcher;
cons: weak design.

Below is a description of another wooden spacer for women's shoes, boots. Brief information:

model name: Nico, female stretcher, 178039;
price: 2230 rubles;
characteristics: made of beech and metal, consists of a screw strut, for correcting leather products taking into account the foot, width adjustment from 7 to 9 cm, 1 block and 3 oval plastic inserts included, increases fullness;
pluses: suitable for left and right legs, high-quality performance, fast results;
cons: expensive.

The following shoe expander is made of metal, durable and wear-resistant. Description:

model name: ES, women's shoe stretcher, aluminum, YM004/5;
price: 3200 rubles;
characteristics: aluminum, for all sizes, mechanical, stretches in length and width;
pluses: durable, easy to use;
cons: not found.

For boots

To stretch high products with a high shaft, special devices are needed. This option will do:

model name: Avel, mechanical boot stretcher, YF010W/M;
price: 850 rubles;
characteristics: for men, 1 pc., made of wood, metal and polyurethane, stretching in width, anatomical parameters are regulated by plastic inserts;
pluses: convenient, practical;
cons: not found.

Below is another very effective shoe strut. Description:

Model Name: SL SLH02, Women's Boot Stretch, 79110;
price: 2100 rubles;
specifications: sizes 36-42, silver, aluminum alloy;
pluses: effectively stretches the boots in width, does not deform the material;
cons: not found.

The following product is inexpensive because it is made of plastic with increased resistance to damage. Description:

Model Name: SL SPH02, Women's Boot Stretch, 79105;
price: 1000 rubles;
characteristics: sizes 34-31, made of impact-resistant yellow plastic, to be stretched across the width;
pluses: durable, high-quality;
cons: none.

For men's shoes

Representatives of the stronger sex, no less than women, suffer from tight shoes and boots. If you encounter such a problem, pay attention to the following spacer:

model name: Collonil Classic, men's stretching pads, 9361 423, 136606150;
price: 2730 rubles;
characteristics: 2 pieces, size 42-43, beige, unvarnished beech, for size increase, shape retention and moisture removal, with screw-on device;
pluses: durable, effective;
cons: not adjustable in width.

The following product is made of beech, suitable not only for stretching, but also for storage. Description:

model name: Nico, male stretcher, 178040;
price: 2620 rubles;
characteristics: size 41-43, complete with 1 block with 7 holes and 3 plastic oval nozzles, made of beech, with metal and plastic elements, screw spacer for shape correction;
pluses: reliable, durable;
cons: not found.

The next option is for men whose leg width is very increased. Description:

model name: SL SPM02, men's wide brace, 79104;
price: 1100 rubles;
characteristics: for a wide leg, size 41-45, yellow, made of impact-resistant plastic, several plastic nozzles are included, there are three holes for them on the block;
pluses: stretches well;
cons: none.

Spray

Special chemicals are very popular now, they help to solve the problem quickly and safely. If you are looking for an inexpensive option, pay attention to this:

model name: Spray-stretcher Pregrada, HS.05006, 135925179;
price: 130 rubles;
characteristics: 100 ml, means for stretching shoes at home for natural and artificial suede, leather, gives elasticity, sprayed on pressure points from the inside before wearing;
pluses: stretches well, economical consumption, cheap;
cons: none.

Reviews about the next remedy are very good, people note that this spray helps no worse than more expensive options. Description:

model name: Stretcher Bar "Comfort" universal, Т0001389, 13615554;
price: 180 rubles;
characteristics: 125 ml, for softening and stretching uncomfortable tight products, for smooth leather, suede, velor, nubuck, textiles, combined materials, rubber products;
pluses: does not leave marks after application, it helps well;
cons: high consumption.

The following tool has been on sale for several years and has proven itself well. Brief information:

model name: Collonil Stretch Spray, 1521000, 136605961;
price: 460 rubles;
characteristics: 100 ml, for natural, artificial or coated leather;
pluses: does not leave contours, stains;
cons: not found.

The manufacturer has a large list of shoe care products, among which there are stretchers. For example, this spray:

model name: Salamander Shoe Stretch, 671351, 141122593;
price: 235 rubles;
characteristics: 75 ml, for suede and genuine leather, with a balanced complex of active substances;
pluses: softens the skin, helps to avoid chafing;
cons: none.

The following spray stretches natural and artificial leather well and does not leave stains on it. Description:

model name: Casablanca Shoe Stretching Spray, 1311, 136454699;
price: 285 rubles;
characteristics: 160 ml, for artificial and natural leather;
pluses: it corrects products well, leaves no marks, effective, it is very convenient to use a shoe stretcher;
cons: not found.

Foam

Means of this form of release are no less effective than sprays. If they are of interest to you, take a look at the following option:

model name: Shoe Stretch Foam Silver, SG3001-00, 5318113;
price: 175 rubles;
characteristics: 150 ml, for natural and artificial materials, leather, suede, nubuck;
pluses: quickly and effectively eliminates the problem, for all types of materials, does not leave wiring, stains, contours;
cons: none.

Damavik is a well-known manufacturer of natural and artificial leather care products. In his line there is such a product:

model name: Damavik foam stretcher, 19004, 142405064;
price: 175 rubles;
characteristics: 150 ml, for suede and natural and artificial leather;
pluses: it will help to quickly soften the pressing areas, stretches and fixes in the desired position;
cons: none.

Collonil produces not only a spray, but also a good foam. Description:

model name: Collonil, foam for stretching tight shoes;
price: 575 rubles;
characteristics: 100 ml, colorless, does not leave streaks and contours, is applied only to a hard area from the outside or from the inside, depending on the material;
pluses: quickly helps, economically spent;
cons: not found.

The following foam works well and is relatively inexpensive. Product Brief:

model name: Twist Casual, stretch foam, 400387058;
price: 175 rubles;
characteristics: 100 ml, for all skin types, with golden amber oil;
pluses: gently and effectively softens tight areas, increases elasticity, restores;
cons: none.

The foam described below is hard to find on the market, but if you are lucky enough to buy it, you will not regret it. Description:

model name: Sitil, stretch foam;
price: 190 rubles;
characteristics: 150 ml, contains natural emollient oils, for all types of genuine leather;
pluses: effective, works quickly;
cons: hard to find on sale.

How to choose a stretch for shoes

The tool should be in every home, because no one is immune from acquiring an imperfectly sitting pair. What kind of stretching for shoes to buy: mechanical or chemical, decide at your discretion. The first option is preferable to people who naturally have a wide foot or have clearly protruding bumps. A chemical agent will come in handy if a particular pair presses you a little. General tips for choosing and using stretchers:

In length, the shoes practically do not stretch. If the pair is too small for you, choose another size. You will not be able to stretch it to such a state that the fingers stop resting on the toe, and the heel counter rubs the heel.
Expensive models made of genuine leather are not recommended to be stretched too actively mechanically. This may damage them. It is better to take them to a professional workshop.
Try the leather shoe stretcher first on an inconspicuous area, such as the edge of the tongue. Modern compositions should not change the color of the product or leave traces behind, but it is better to play it safe.
After stretching, natural skin loses natural fats and becomes more brittle. After the procedure, treatment with a cream or conditioner is required.

For genuine leather

Products made from such material must be treated with great care. Mechanical stretchers are not recommended for very thin and patent leather. It may not withstand the load and simply become covered with cracks, breaks. And nubuck, suede or velor products, on the contrary, are better to stretch mechanically or even wear them in, because any chemicals, even the most gentle ones, can leave marks on them that cannot be removed.

For artificial leather

Products made from non-natural materials are difficult to correct. The result can be unpredictable, because it is never known for certain what specific raw materials shoes are made from. Sometimes materials are used that are generally not able to stretch. The safest option in this case would be to purchase a chemical stretcher for faux leather products. Mechanical methods are allowed to be used only at your own peril and risk.

Video

It often happens that you are madly in love with shoes, but they are not that small, but a little tight. Gotta take it! But the legs do not have to be tormented by wearing inconvenient purchases. There are many ways to stretch shoes. The first thing that comes to mind is stretching in a shoe shop.

This method should be used if your new thing turned out to be too narrow or half a size too small. In the workshop, your shoes will be treated with a special stretching agent, they will insert a block of the desired size and fullness into it, and they will withstand it for at least a day. If the question is simply in an uncomfortable or very rigid model, then stretching shoes at home can really help.

Ways to stretch shoes at home

1. The most proven way is to treat the shoes with alcohol or cologne. It is necessary to moisten both the inner surface of the shoe and the outer surface with alcohol. It is more convenient to do this with a spray bottle, for example, with which you spray flowers. Then put on your shoes and walk around the house in them until completely dry. If it only presses in one place, then moisten only that part. It would be nice to wear a model moistened with alcohol on a thin sock.

2. Castor oil or petroleum jelly stretches shoes very well. In the same way, treat it inside and out with oil, and walk around the apartment in it for several hours. The oil also helps to remove the squeak of the sole. Lubricate it with oil and leave to dry.

3. How to stretch the shoes if there is no alcohol and oil? Just boil it down. But this is only possible for genuine leather products. Shoes are quickly poured with boiling water, the remaining water is carefully drained from the inside, then they are slightly cooled and put on their feet on a thin sock. Wear until completely dry. If you really feel sorry for chic shoes, then soak a cloth in boiling water and wrap your shoes in it for a while. Then grease all the same with oil and walk around the house a little in it.

4. How can you stretch the shoes in those places where it is narrow for you? This problem is easily fixed with regular vinegar. It is necessary to moisten or sprinkle vinegar abundantly on the inside of the shoe in narrow places. Do not treat the outer surface with vinegar so as not to spoil the paint. You can smear the surface with oil for a better effect.

5. If there is no time to break in shoes while walking around the house, you can use wet newspapers. Hold the shoes over the steam and stuff them tightly with wet newspapers. A wet cloth instead of newspapers also helps well, but it will take longer to dry. Be careful not to deform your shoes by filling them with newspapers or a wet cloth. In no case do not dry it by the battery or in the sun.

6. If the backs of shoes rub, wipe them with paraffin or soap. Do this every time

Yes, put on shoes, and you will forget about corns.

7. Surely everyone knows how to stretch shoes with a hair dryer. Direct the hot air from the hair dryer inside the shoes and warm them up for a minute. Then immediately lubricate the inside and outside of the shoe with oil or a special stretching agent. Then put on the toe shoes. After the shoes have cooled down, repeat the procedure. Do this several times until the shoes are stretched.

Using professional shoe stretchers

It is most convenient to use professional products for stretching, which are sold in shoe stores. These products help both stretch the shoe and soften its leather surface. Spray or foam on problem areas on the outside and inside of the model, then put it on socks. Continue like this until the product is completely dry.

Each of us at least once in a lifetime faced the problem of tight shoes. How it turns out: you seem to come to the store, try it on, and everything sits down wonderfully, and when you return home it’s cramped, uncomfortable, crushing. What to do in this case?

First of all, let's talk about how to avoid such unpleasant moments:

If possible, give preference to leather or It is stronger and rather quickly sits on the leg. In addition, if necessary, you can carry out some procedures to increase comfort (but about that, at home, later).

Go shopping in the afternoon or at the end of the work day. Your feet swell a little after a hard day at work, and therefore shoes need to be wider.

Carefully inspect the model you like, be sure to try on both shoes and walk around or, if necessary, run.

However, if the trouble did occur, and the shoes are so to your liking that there can be no question of returning, then human ingenuity comes to the rescue.

My advice is go to a professional! Almost every shoe repairer has a special device for stretching shoes and will be happy to help you.

But if there is no desire or opportunity to contact a specialist, you can try to cope on your own.

There are many different tips on how to stretch shoes at home. I'll only talk about the ones that really work. Important! If your shoes are made of suede or velor, in no case should you use alcohol, cream, vinegar, or any other means (except for specially designed ones) on its surface.

How to stretch shoes at home

1. There is a small stretch for shoes on sale, which you can buy in special departments for or on the market. The thing is very useful and inexpensive.

2. Use a solution of alcohol and water (1:1). Spray on the surface and inside, put on shoes with a tight toe and walk until dry.

Attention! For patent leather, it is necessary to use a solution of alcohol and water in proportions of 2: 1.

3. For smooth skin, you can use a fat cream, castor oil, glycerin, petroleum jelly or vegetable oil. Apply to the surface and problem areas inside, let stand for about 2 hours, peel and then put on a tight sock. Under the influence of fatty acids, the skin will become more elastic and easily sit down on the leg.

4. Steam your shoes, put on a thick sock and walk around for a few hours.

5. Insert plastic bags filled with water inside the shoes and leave in the freezer overnight. Under the influence of low temperatures, the water expands and stretches the walls of the shoe. Take the shoes out of the freezer in the morning and let them sit until the ice begins to melt. Then remove the packages and you can safely put on shoes.

6. Lubricate problem areas on the model with paraffin and put on a tight sock.

7. Spread a 3% vinegar solution over the surface of problem areas, put on a tight sock and walk until dry.

If you don't have the time or inclination to break in tight shoes, you can always stuff your models with damp newspaper and leave to dry.

Now you know how to stretch shoes at home. However, be careful when buying. Do not forget that stretching shoes in length is possible only by half a size. If you try to fit shoes that are too small for you, you run the risk of ruining either them or your feet.