Have you ever bought a pair of high heels that were just a little too tight? Or maybe you have a pair that you love, but they start to hurt after a few hours of wear. If so, you’re not alone. Millions of people around the world struggle with finding comfortable high heels. But don’t despair! There are actually a few simple ways to stretch high heels to make them more comfortable. In this article, we’ll share our top tips on how to stretch high heels without damaging them.
One of the most effective ways to stretch high heels is to use a shoe stretcher. This is a device that is inserted into the shoe and then expanded to stretch the material. Shoe stretchers can be found at most shoe stores or online. When using a shoe stretcher, be sure to follow the instructions carefully to avoid damaging your shoes. You may also want to use a shoe horn to help insert the stretcher into the shoe.
Another way to stretch high heels is to use a blow dryer. This method is not as effective as using a shoe stretcher, but it can still be helpful in a pinch. To stretch high heels with a blow dryer, put on a thick pair of socks and then wear the shoes. Point the blow dryer at the areas of the shoe that are too tight and apply heat for a few minutes. As the material heats up, it will become more pliable and easier to stretch. Be careful not to hold the blow dryer too close to the shoe, as this could damage the material.
Prepare Your Feet
Choose the Right Shoes
The first step to stretching high heels is choosing the right pair. Avoid shoes that are too tight or have pointy toes, as these can put unnecessary strain on your feet. Opt for shoes that are made from soft, flexible materials and have a comfortable fit.
Wear Thick Socks
Before putting on your high heels, wear a pair of thick socks. This will help to cushion your feet and prevent blisters. You can also use a foot cream or lotion to help soften your skin and make stretching easier.
Stretch Your Calves and Achilles Tendon
Stand with your feet flat on the floor and your heels shoulder-width apart. Step forward with your right foot and bend your knee, keeping your left leg straight. Hold this position for 30 seconds, then repeat with your left foot. This stretch helps to loosen up your calf muscles and Achilles tendon, which can help to prevent discomfort when wearing high heels.
Stretch Your Toes
Sit on the floor with your legs extended in front of you. Spread your toes apart as wide as you can and hold this position for 30 seconds. This stretch helps to loosen up your toes and prevent them from cramping when wearing high heels.
Walk Around in Your Shoes
Once you have stretched your feet, put on your high heels and walk around in them for a few minutes. This will help to break them in and make them more comfortable to wear.
Use a Shoe Stretcher
A shoe stretcher is a device designed specifically to stretch shoes and make them more comfortable to wear. These devices come in various forms, but generally consist of two adjustable wooden or plastic pieces that are inserted into the shoe and expanded to apply pressure and gradually stretch the material.
Types of Shoe Stretchers
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Adjustable | Features adjustable arms that can be customized to fit different shoe sizes and widths. |
| Single-Width | Designed to stretch shoes in one specific width size. |
| Boot Stretchers | Specifically designed for stretching boots and accommodating taller footwear. |
Using a Shoe Stretcher
- Prepare the Shoe: Place the shoe on a stable surface, preferably inside a shoebox or other protective container to prevent damage.
- Insert the Expander: Insert the two adjustable arms of the shoe stretcher into the toe box of the shoe. Position the arms securely against the inside walls of the shoe.
- Apply Pressure: Gradually turn the knob or handle on the stretcher to expand the arms and apply pressure. Avoid over-stretching the shoe, as this could damage the material or break the stretcher.
- Leave Overnight: Allow the shoe to remain stretched for several hours or overnight. This will give the material time to gradually stretch and conform to the new shape.
- Repeat: If necessary, repeat the stretching process several times until the desired fit is achieved.
Freeze Water in a Bag
This is an old but effective method to stretch high heels that are tight. Follow these steps carefully:
Materials Required
|
Procedure
1. Fill two sandwich bags halfway with water and seal them tightly.
2. Place one bag inside each high heel, making sure the bag fits snugly against the entire inner surface of the shoe.
3. Place the shoes upright in the freezer and leave them there for at least 8 hours, or overnight. The water in the bags will freeze and expand, applying even pressure on the shoes and stretching them out. Make sure the freezer is set to a temperature of at least 0°F (-18°C) to ensure proper freezing.
4. Remove the shoes from the freezer and let them thaw for 30-60 minutes before trying them on. The shoes should now be stretched and more comfortable to wear.
Heat Your Shoes
It’s time to use the power of heat to stretch your high heels. There are several ways to do this:
1. Hairdryer Method
Use a hairdryer to heat the tight areas of your shoes. Focus the hot air on the spot for about 30 seconds. Once the area is warm, put on your shoes and walk around for a few minutes. Repeat the process until you achieve the desired stretch.
2. Steam Method
Steam helps soften the leather, making it easier to stretch. Fill a bowl with boiling water and hold your shoes over the steam for 15-20 minutes. Afterwards, wear your shoes and walk around until they cool down.
3. Freezer Method
This method may sound strange, but it actually works! Fill two freezer-safe bags with water and place them inside your shoes. Make sure the bags are positioned in the tight areas. Freeze your shoes overnight. The expanding ice will stretch the leather.
4. Professional Shoe Stretcher
If you’re not confident in using the methods above, you can invest in a professional shoe stretcher. These devices are designed to stretch shoes safely and effectively. Here’s a table summarizing the key features of different types of shoe stretchers:
| Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Instep Stretcher | Targets specific areas | Limited adjustability |
| Toe Box Stretcher | Expands the toe area | May not stretch the entire shoe |
| Boot Stretcher | Accommodates taller boots | More expensive |
Stuff Your Shoes with Newspaper
This is a classic method for stretching high heels. Stuffing your shoes with newspaper helps to absorb moisture and stretch the leather gradually. Follow these steps:
**1. Remove Insoles and Laces:** Take out any insoles or laces to create more space for the newspaper.
**2. Dampen Newspaper:** Lightly dampen several sheets of newspaper with water. Don’t soak them, as excessive moisture can damage the leather.
**3. Stuff Loosely:** Stuff the dampened newspaper loosely inside the shoes, filling the toes, heel, and any tight areas. Avoid overstuffing, as it can stretch the shoes too much.
**4. Wrap in Plastic:** Wrap the stuffed shoes tightly with plastic wrap or a plastic bag to retain moisture and help the stretching process.
**5. Leave Overnight or Longer:** Allow the shoes to sit overnight or for several hours. The newspaper will absorb moisture from the shoes, softening the leather and gradually stretching it. For extra stretch, you can also try the following techniques:
| Technique | How to |
|---|---|
| **Walk around with the stuffed shoes** | Put on the stuffed shoes and walk around for short periods to gradually work in the stretch. |
| **Use a shoe stretcher** | Insert a shoe stretcher into the shoes to apply targeted pressure and stretch specific areas. |
| **Apply a leather conditioner** | After stuffing with newspaper, apply a leather conditioner to help soften and moisturize the leather, making it more pliable. |
Stretch with a Hairdryer
Using a hairdryer is a quick and effective method to stretch high heels. Follow these steps:
- Put on thick socks.
- Wear the heels you want to stretch.
- Apply a small amount of leather conditioner or stretching spray to the tight areas of the shoes.
- Turn on the hairdryer to the lowest heat setting and aim it at the tight areas of the shoes.
- Move the hairdryer back and forth or in circular motions for a few minutes.
- While the leather is still warm and pliable, gently flex and wiggle your toes and ankles to stretch the shoes in the desired direction. You can also use a shoe stretcher or a pair of pliers to apply additional pressure to the tight areas.
- Repeat steps 4-6 until you feel the shoes have stretched to your satisfaction.
Additional Tips:
- Use a hairdryer with a nozzle attachment to concentrate the heat on specific areas.
- If you don’t have a leather conditioner or stretching spray, you can use a damp cloth to apply water to the tight areas.
- Stretch your shoes gradually over time to avoid damaging the leather.
- Once you’ve stretched your shoes, let them cool completely before wearing them.
Use a Shoe Stretching Spray
A shoe stretching spray can be a great way to stretch high heels without damaging them. Here are step-by-step instructions on how to use one:
1. Clean the shoes with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris.
2. Apply the stretching spray evenly to the areas of the shoes that need to be stretched.
3. Use a shoe stretcher or insert a thick rolled-up sock into the shoes to help stretch them.
4. Wear the shoes around the house for a few hours to allow the spray to work.
5. If the shoes are still too tight, you can repeat the process.
Here is a table summarizing the steps:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Clean the shoes. |
| 2 | Apply the stretching spray. |
| 3 | Use a shoe stretcher or insert a thick rolled-up sock into the shoes. |
| 4 | Wear the shoes around the house for a few hours. |
| 5 | If the shoes are still too tight, repeat the process. |
Walk in Your Shoes
Once you’ve stretched your shoes, it’s important to walk in them to break them in. This will help the shoes conform to your feet and make them more comfortable to wear.
Here are some tips for walking in your new shoes:
- Start by walking for short periods of time, gradually increasing the duration as your feet become more comfortable.
- If your feet start to hurt, take a break and give them a chance to rest.
- Don’t wear your new shoes for extended periods of time until they are fully broken in.
- If your shoes are still too tight after breaking them in, you may need to have them professionally stretched.
Tips for Walking in High Heels
Walking in high heels can be a challenge, but there are a few things you can do to make it easier on your feet:
- Choose heels that are the right size and width for your feet.
- Wear thick socks or insoles to cushion your feet.
- Take breaks throughout the day to give your feet a rest.
- Walk on soft surfaces like carpet or grass to reduce the impact on your feet.
- If you’re going to be walking in heels for an extended period of time, bring a pair of flats to change into when you need a break.
By following these tips, you can make walking in high heels a more comfortable experience.
Practice Heel Walking
To stretch your high heels, the key is to practice walking in them regularly. Start by taking short walks around your home, gradually increasing the duration and distance of your walks. This will help your feet adjust to the height and shape of the shoes and allow the leather to stretch naturally.
Heel Walking Techniques
Here are some specific techniques you can use when practicing heel walking:
- Walk on a flat surface: Walking on a flat surface will help you develop good balance and posture while wearing high heels.
- Start with a low heel height: If you’re new to wearing high heels, start with a shorter heel height and gradually increase it as you become more comfortable.
- Walk heel-to-toe: Take small, deliberate steps, placing your heel down first and then rolling your foot forward onto the ball of your foot.
- Keep your posture upright: Stand up straight with your shoulders back and your chin up. This will help you maintain your balance and prevent back pain.
- Avoid sudden movements: Take your time when walking in high heels and avoid making sudden stops or turns.
- Wear comfortable socks: Wear socks that fit well and will absorb sweat. This will help prevent blisters and keep your feet comfortable.
- Take breaks: Don’t wear high heels for long periods of time. Take breaks throughout the day to rest your feet and stretch them out.
- Use a heel stretcher: A heel stretcher can be a useful tool for stretching high heels. Insert the stretcher into the shoe and turn the knob to gradually increase the width of the shoe.
- Apply heat: Using a blow dryer or heat gun to warm up the leather of the shoes can help make them more pliable and easier to stretch.
Frequency and Duration
The frequency and duration of your heel walking practice will depend on your individual needs and how quickly your feet adjust. Aim to walk in high heels for at least 15-20 minutes each day, and gradually increase the duration as you become more comfortable.
Break in New Shoes Gradually
Breaking in new high heels can be an uncomfortable experience, but there are several methods you can employ to make the process easier. Here are 10 effective techniques for stretching high heels:
1.
Wear Thick Socks:
Slip on a pair of thick, cushioned socks and wear your heels around the house for short periods.
2.
Use a Hairdryer:
Apply heat to the tight areas of the shoe with a hairdryer, while gently stretching the material with your hands.
3.
Stuff with Newspaper or Socks:
Fill your shoes with crumpled newspaper or rolled-up socks to stretch the material gradually.
4.
Use Shoe Stretchers:
Insert shoe stretchers specifically designed for high heels to expand the width and length of the shoe.
5.
Apply Leather Conditioner:
Conditioning leather heels with a moisturizer can soften the material, making it easier to stretch.
6.
Freeze Water Bags:
Fill freezer bags with water and place them inside the heels. As the water freezes, it will expand and stretch the material.
7.
Stretch with Your Feet:
Wear your heels and wiggle your toes, bend your ankles, and flex your arches to break in the shoes naturally.
8.
Use a Shoe Stretching Spray:
Apply a specialized shoe stretching spray to the tight areas of the heel and stretch the material while the spray penetrates.
9.
Take Breaks:
Avoid wearing new heels for extended periods initially. Gradually increase the amount of time you spend wearing them.
10.
Choose the Right Size:
Prevent blisters and foot pain by choosing high heels that fit snugly but not tightly. Here’s a size conversion table to help you find the correct fit:
US UK EU 6 3 36 7 4 37 8 5 38 9 6 39 10 7 40 How To Stretch High Heels
If you’re like most women, you probably have a few pairs of high heels that you love to wear. But if you’ve ever worn heels for any length of time, you know that they can be painful. The good news is that there are a few things you can do to stretch high heels and make them more comfortable.
One of the best ways to stretch high heels is to wear them around the house for short periods of time. Start by wearing them for 15-20 minutes at a time, and gradually increase the amount of time you wear them as your feet get used to them. If you find that your feet are starting to hurt, take the heels off and give your feet a rest. You can also try stretching your feet by rolling them on a tennis ball or by doing toe touches.
Another way to stretch high heels is to use a shoe stretcher. Shoe stretchers are available at most shoe stores, and they can be a great way to stretch heels that are too tight. Simply insert the shoe stretcher into the heel and turn the knob to stretch the shoe. Be sure to follow the instructions on the shoe stretcher, and don’t overstretch the shoe, as this could damage it.
If you’re still having trouble stretching your high heels, you may want to take them to a shoe repair shop. A shoe repair shop can stretch heels professionally, and they can also make other adjustments to the shoes to make them more comfortable.
People Also Ask About How To Stretch High Heels
How can I stretch high heels quickly?
There are a few things you can do to stretch high heels quickly:
- Wear them around the house for short periods of time.
- Use a shoe stretcher.
- Apply a leather conditioner to the heels.
- Blow hot air into the heels using a hair dryer.
How can I stretch high heels without a shoe stretcher?
There are a few ways to stretch high heels without a shoe stretcher:
- Wear them around the house with thick socks.
- Stuff them with newspaper or socks.
- Use a hair dryer to blow hot air into the heels.
- Apply a leather conditioner to the heels.
How much does it cost to stretch high heels?
The cost to stretch high heels varies depending on the method used and the location of the shoe repair shop. Typically, it costs between $10 and $30 to have heels stretched professionally.
