Breaking in new shoes can be a painful and uncomfortable experience, especially if you’re not used to wearing them. Casual man shoes are no exception, and it’s important to know how to properly break them in to avoid blisters, sore feet, and other discomforts. In this article, we will explore some tips and tricks on how to break in casual man shoes.
Wear Them Around the House
The first step in breaking in casual man shoes is to wear them around the house. This will allow your feet to get used to the shoes without putting too much strain on them. Start by wearing them for short periods of time, and gradually increase the amount of time as your feet become more accustomed to the shoes. This will also help to identify any areas that may cause discomfort or rubbing.
Thick Socks
Wearing thick socks can help to stretch out the shoes and provide additional cushioning. This will help to reduce friction and prevent blisters. Thick socks also help to absorb moisture and keep your feet dry, reducing the risk of developing foot odor.
Use Shoe Trees
Shoe trees are wooden inserts that help to maintain the shape of the shoes while they’re not being worn. They can also help to stretch out the shoes and reduce stiffness. Insert the shoe trees into the shoes when you’re not wearing them to help the shoes maintain their shape and soften the leather.
Wear Them on Short Walks
Once you’ve worn the shoes around the house for a few days, it’s time to take them on short walks. Start with short walks around the block and gradually increase the distance as your feet become more accustomed to the shoes. Walking in the shoes will help to stretch out the leather and loosen up any tight spots.
Use a Shoe Stretcher
A shoe stretcher is a device that helps to stretch out tight spots in the shoes. It can be used to widen the shoes in specific areas where you feel discomfort. Insert the shoe stretcher into the shoes and tighten it until it stretches out the tight spots. This should be done gradually over a few days to avoid damaging the shoes.
Apply Leather Conditioner
Leather conditioner helps to soften the leather and make it more pliable. Apply a small amount of leather conditioner to the shoes and massage it into the leather. This will help to break in the leather and make it more comfortable to wear.
Avoid Getting the Shoes Wet
Getting the shoes wet can cause the leather to shrink and become stiff. Then this can undo any progress made in breaking in the shoes. If the shoes do get wet, let them dry naturally and avoid exposing them to heat or direct sunlight.
Take Breaks
It’s important to take breaks from wearing the shoes, especially during the initial break-in period. This allows your feet to rest and recover, reducing the risk of developing blisters or sore feet. Alternate between wearing the new shoes and your old, comfortable shoes until the new shoes are fully broken in.
Use Moleskin
Moleskin is a self-adhesive fabric that can be applied to areas of the shoes that cause discomfort or rubbing. Then this will provide additional cushioning and reduce friction, preventing blisters and sore spots. Apply moleskin to the areas of the shoes that need extra cushioning, such as the heels or toes.
In conclusion, breaking in casual man shoes takes time and patience, but it’s worth it to avoid uncomfortable and painful feet. Follow these tips and tricks to break in your new shoes and make them more comfortable to wear. Remember to wear the shoes around the house, use thick socks, and take breaks to avoid developing blisters or sore feet. With proper care and attention, your new shoes will be broken in and comfortable in no time.