How To Stretch Leather Boots: 13 Steps (with Pictures) - WikiHow

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Terms of Use wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Learn why people trust wikiHow How to Stretch Leather Boots PDF download Download Article Use boot stretchers or at-home hacks to reshape tight boots Co-authored by Moe Draper

Last Updated: January 24, 2025 Approved

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  • Using a Boot Stretcher
    • |
  • Exploring DIY Stretching Options
    • |
  • Expert Q&A
    • |
  • Tips
|Show more |Show less X

This article was co-authored by Moe Draper. Moe Draper is a Shoe Care and Repair Specialist based in Detroit, Michigan. Moe is the Owner of Detroit Shoe Shine and Shoe Repair. With over 20 years of experience as a cobbler, Moe specializes in shoe shining, cosmetic restorations for quality leather goods, and minor/major shoe repair services. Moe and his staff at Detroit Shoe Shine and Repair have over 30 years of combined experience and knowledge. In addition to his brick and mortar business, Moe has a mobile shoe repair business where he travels to perform shoe shines for clients. Moe frequently gives back to his community by offering his services to law enforcement officers and other valued patrons. Moe and his business were featured for their work in the community in the Detroit Free Press. There are 10 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. This article received 25 testimonials and 96% of readers who voted found it helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 1,111,110 times.

If that new pair of leather boots doesn’t fit quite right or if your favorite pair of hiking boots have shrunk, there is no need to despair! There are quite a few ways you can stretch out the leather so your boots will fit like a dream. From using a boot stretcher to wearing extra socks or even freezing your boots, chances are you can salvage your shoes and save yourself the expense of having to buy a new pair.

Best Ways to Stretch Leather Boots

  • Use a boot stretcher to widen and lengthen your boots, leaving it in the boot for 6-8 hours.
  • Wear thick socks to break in new boots that are a little tight.
  • Spray the insides of your boots with leather-stretching spray before wearing.
  • Reshape the leather with a hairdryer for 3-5 minutes while wearing the boots.

Steps

Method 1 Method 1 of 2:

Using a Boot Stretcher

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  1. Step 1 Pick a 1-way stretcher to expand the width of your boots. 1 Pick a 1-way stretcher to expand the width of your boots. There are a few different types of stretchers, and it’s important to pick the right kind based on how your boots need to be stretched. If your boots are too narrow but otherwise fit great, you can use a 1-way stretcher to make the soles wider.
    • Many shoe stores sell boot stretchers and you can also find them online. They generally cost about $20-$40.
    • Boot stretchers can increase your boot size by 1/2-1 size total. If your boots are 2 sizes too small, though, you may need to buy a new pair.
  2. Step 2 Opt for a 2-way stretcher to lengthen and widen your boots. 2 Opt for a 2-way stretcher to lengthen and widen your boots. When you turn the handle on a 2-way stretcher, it both expands and elongates your boots. If your shoes are too narrow and if your heels or toes are consistently getting pinched or blistered, this is a great option for you.[1]
    • Wooden stretchers are the most durable option and add a nice scent to your boots, whereas plastic stretchers are less expensive and easier to travel with. Check out the reviews of different options when you go to make your purchase.

    Tip: Make sure to purchase a boot stretcher and not a shoe stretcher. A shoe stretcher generally doesn’t include a long handle, which means it will be a lot harder to make adjustments.

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  3. Step 3 Use a boot-calf stretcher to widen the calves of your leather boots. 3 Use a boot-calf stretcher to widen the calves of your leather boots. You can buy a boot-calf stretcher on its own, or you can get one that is combined with a 1- or 2-way stretcher to adjust the fit of the entire boot at once. If just the calves of your boots are a little too tight, use a boot-calf stretcher on its own.
    • These instruments are great for both hiking boots and zip-up or slip-on boots.
    • There are even stretchers that will specifically target the instep of a boot in case that area is too tight for comfort.
  4. Step 4 Buy 2 boot stretchers so you will have one for each boot. 4 Buy 2 boot stretchers so you will have one for each boot. Most boot stretchers are sold in pairs, but some sources sell them individually. If you’re ordering online, make sure to check and see if you’ll be getting 1 or 2 stretchers with your order.
    • If you aren’t in a rush, you could purchase a single stretcher and use it over a few days and stretch each boot individually.
  5. Step 5 Insert the boot stretcher while it is unexpanded. 5 Insert the boot stretcher while it is unexpanded. You must get the stretcher into place in the boot first before you make any sizing adjustments. Slide the stretcher into the boot as far as it will go so that the tip of the toes fits snuggly into the end of the boot. You’ll use the same process for a 1-way or 2-way stretcher.[2]
    • If you’re using a calf stretcher on its own, you just need to put the stretcher down into the calf section of the boot. It shouldn’t go into the actual sole section at all.[3]

    Tip: Consider spraying the inside of your boots with a leather-stretcher before inserting the actual boot stretcher. This product will help the leather stretch even more and should keep the leather supple.

  6. Step 6 Expand the boot stretcher until you see resistance in the leather. 6 Expand the boot stretcher until you see resistance in the leather. Turn the handle clockwise to start the stretching process. Continue turning the handle until you see from the outside that the leather is being stretched. The handle will adjust both the width and the length of the stretcher if you’re using a 2-way stretcher.[4]
    • If you’re worried about over-stretching your boots, apply a light amount of pressure and then increase the amount of stretch each subsequent night until you get to the desired size.[5]
  7. Step 7 Leave the boot stretcher in place overnight for 6-8 hours. 7 Leave the boot stretcher in place overnight for 6-8 hours. If you leave the stretcher in place for less time than this, it won’t have much of an effect. It’s also totally fine for you to leave the stretcher in place for longer periods.[6]
    • Depending on how much your boots need to be stretched, it may take 2-3 nights to get them to the right size. Be patient and try the boots on every morning to see how much progress has been made.[7]
    • Boot stretchers also work well for stretching rubber boots.
    EXPERT TIP Mallika Sharma

    Mallika Sharma

    Certified Leather Care Technician Mallika Sharma is a Certified Leather Care Technician and the Founder of The Leather Laundry, a niche spa service for luxury leather gear in India. Mallika specializes in leather cleaning, coloring, repairing, and restoring for shoes, handbags, jackets, wallets, belts, and sofas. She holds a Master’s degree in Finance and Investment from the University of Edinburgh Business School. Mallika is a certified Professional Leather Care Technician and trained with the globally reputed leather care company, LTT in the United Kingdom. Mallika Sharma Mallika Sharma Certified Leather Care Technician

    Leather has an elastic nature that allows it to be gently stretched out. To increase the size of a leather item by up to half an inch, hold the base firmly with one hand while using your other hand to slowly pull the material in all directions. Just be very careful not to tear or damage the leather by aggressively overstretching it.

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Method 2 Method 2 of 2:

Exploring DIY Stretching Options

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  1. Step 1 Use a leather-stretching spray while wearing the boots for a custom fit. 1 Use a leather-stretching spray while wearing the boots for a custom fit. Spray the inside of the boots rather than the outside to keep the leather in good condition. If you spray the outside, the leather could get discolored. Put the boots on while they are still wet from the spray to get the boots to stretch to fit your foot.[8]
    • These products can be bought at shoe stores, convenience stores, and online. You can usually get a small bottle for under $10.
  2. Step 2 Spray alcohol mixed with water inside your boots to stretch the calves. 2 Spray alcohol mixed with water inside your boots to stretch the calves. This method can work for the entire body of the boot, but it works especially well for calves that are a little too tight. Mix a 1:1 ratio of rubbing alcohol and water in a clean spray bottle. Saturate the inside of your boots with the spray, and then wear the boots until they’re completely dry.[9]
    • You can repeat this method as often as you need to.
    • If you don’t want to wear the boots while they’re wet, use a calve-stretcher in conjunction with the spray for the best results.
  3. Step 3 Wear wet boots to stretch them to the size of your foot. 3 Wear wet boots to stretch them to the size of your foot. Submerge your boots completely in a bucket of water. Leave the boots to soak for 5 minutes. Then, put the boots on and wear them around for 30 minutes or until they have dried. While they’re drying, massage a conditioning cream into the leather to help them retain their new, stretched shape.[10]
    • Leather conditioning cream can be bought online, at a shoe store, or many convenience stores, usually for less than $10.
  4. Step 4 Wear thick socks to break in new boots and stretch the leather. 4 Wear thick socks to break in new boots and stretch the leather. This method works best for new shoes that are just a little too tight or that pinch your toes. Put on 1-2 pairs of thick socks (as many as you can wear while still being able to put on the boots), then put on your boots and walk around in them for 30 minutes at a time. After 4-5 days of doing this, your boots should be broken in and should fit better than they did before.[11]
    • This process can be a little uncomfortable, so do it when you’re at home and will be able to take the boots off after 30 minutes or so. Having to wear the extra socks and have that excess pressure on your feet all day long wouldn’t feel great.
  5. Step 5 Wear your boots and reshape the leather with a hairdryer. 5 Wear your boots and reshape the leather with a hairdryer. Put on a pair of thick socks and then put on your boots. Use a hairdryer to blow hot air on the boots for 3-5 minutes. Be careful to not apply heat for much longer than that as it could damage the leather.[12]
    • The heat relaxes the leather and reshapes it to fit the extra bulk provided by the thick pair of socks you put on.
    • You can repeat this process daily if needed.
  6. Step 6 Expand your toe space by freezing water in your boots overnight. 6 Expand your toe space by freezing water in your boots overnight. Take a gallon-sized plastic bag and fill it halfway with water. Settle the bag into your boot and use something to prop up the heel so that the water stays primarily in the toes. Freeze the boots overnight. In the morning, take the boots out of the freezer and let the water defrost before you remove the plastic bag.[13]
    • As the water freezes, it expands, creating a natural stretcher for your boots.
    7. Advertisement

Join the Discussion...

How do you stretch shoes without damaging them? WikiLynxWatcher304 WikiLynxWatcher304 My wife bought me these shoes when she was on vacation and she really likes the way they look on me. The problem is that they’re like half a size too small. I can’t actually tell if it’s a length or a width thing, to be honest. In any case, I can’t go back to where she bought them in Costa Rica to exchange them for a better fit, so I’ve resorted to trying to stretch them out. Any tips here? I think the shoes are leather, but they could be some kind of synthetic material, I’m not sure. Read More Carroll Kelly Carroll Kelly Shoe Care Specialist Shoe repair shops have a specially formulated shoe stretch solution that's safe for leather and doesn't discolor it. While the solution is wet, they put a wood shoe stretcher in the shoe and turn it and then crank it up till you know stretch it to the correct width. As that solution dries, the leather will stay in the new stretched position. Read More Moe Draper Moe Draper Shoe Care & Repair Specialist To stretch out leather shoes that are too tight, purchase your own wooden shoe stretcher and hand-crank them to the appropriate tension to stretch them. In order to get a good stretch, stretch them for at least three days, and you should wear them for the remainder of the day to ensure that the stretch lasts. To further maintain the stretch, use a cedar shoe tree to hold the stretch when you are not wearing your shoes.If this is too difficult, you can always google your local shoe repair or shoe cobbler and take them in to have them professionally stretched. Read More See all 11 Replies and Read Discussion

Expert Q&A

Search Add New Question
  • Question Do boot stretchers actually work? Moe Draper Moe Draper Shoe Care & Repair Specialist Moe Draper is a Shoe Care and Repair Specialist based in Detroit, Michigan. Moe is the Owner of Detroit Shoe Shine and Shoe Repair. With over 20 years of experience as a cobbler, Moe specializes in shoe shining, cosmetic restorations for quality leather goods, and minor/major shoe repair services. Moe and his staff at Detroit Shoe Shine and Repair have over 30 years of combined experience and knowledge. In addition to his brick and mortar business, Moe has a mobile shoe repair business where he travels to perform shoe shines for clients. Moe frequently gives back to his community by offering his services to law enforcement officers and other valued patrons. Moe and his business were featured for their work in the community in the Detroit Free Press. Moe Draper Moe Draper Shoe Care & Repair Specialist Expert Answer Yes. Wooden shoe stretchers are effective at stretching leather boots. Outside of taking them to a professional, it's going to be your best option. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 2 Helpful 4
  • Question Can a cobbler stretch suede Ugg boots? Community Answer Community Answer They can, but it is better to just wear them since they stretch out faster that way and have a better shape (since they conform to your foot over time). Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 6 Helpful 23
  • Question How would I stretch a leather-lined pair of riding boots? The shaft is too thin. Community Answer Community Answer Rub a leather conditioner into the inside of the boot (I like Kiwi mink oil) and wear it as long as you can tolerate. If you are not initially able to zip it all the way, heel lifts may help with positioning. I know when I put mine on, I initially have to put my heel all the way down to zip it up to the ankle, then stretch the back of my leg and create a gap under the heel to get them to zip over the calf. Be as active as you can while wearing them. Do this until you have reached the desired size. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 5 Helpful 10
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Tips

  • If you’re unable to stretch your leather boots yourself, you could also take them to a cobbler. They’ll be able to tell you if the boots can be stretched further, and if not, they may be able to add elastic or leather to the boots to make them larger. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
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References

  1. ↑ https://youtu.be/c3-hyeJEGVk?t=22
  2. ↑ https://youtu.be/U_1moQQ3p4c?t=47
  3. ↑ https://youtu.be/Z2cljeWRYvI?t=90
  4. ↑ https://youtu.be/U_1moQQ3p4c?t=81
  5. ↑ Moe Draper. Shoe Care & Repair Specialist. Expert Interview
  6. ↑ Moe Draper. Shoe Care & Repair Specialist. Expert Interview
  7. ↑ Moe Draper. Shoe Care & Repair Specialist. Expert Interview
  8. ↑ https://www.whowhatwear.com/how-to-stretch-leather-boots
  9. ↑ https://youtu.be/8sHfonfYRCg?t=101
More References (4)
  1. ↑ https://youtu.be/x8vmm-fvnB0?t=44
  2. ↑ https://www.aboutboot.com/stretching-out-shoes-wider/
  3. ↑ https://www.aboutboot.com/stretching-out-shoes-wider/
  4. ↑ https://youtu.be/oTJww_31R2g?t=15

About This Article

Moe Draper Co-authored by: Moe Draper Shoe Care & Repair Specialist This article was co-authored by Moe Draper. Moe Draper is a Shoe Care and Repair Specialist based in Detroit, Michigan. Moe is the Owner of Detroit Shoe Shine and Shoe Repair. With over 20 years of experience as a cobbler, Moe specializes in shoe shining, cosmetic restorations for quality leather goods, and minor/major shoe repair services. Moe and his staff at Detroit Shoe Shine and Repair have over 30 years of combined experience and knowledge. In addition to his brick and mortar business, Moe has a mobile shoe repair business where he travels to perform shoe shines for clients. Moe frequently gives back to his community by offering his services to law enforcement officers and other valued patrons. Moe and his business were featured for their work in the community in the Detroit Free Press. This article has been viewed 1,111,110 times. 27 votes - 96% Co-authors: 9 Updated: January 24, 2025 Views: 1,111,110 Categories: Care of Boots Article SummaryX

To stretch leather boots, start by putting on your thickest pair of socks and forcing the boots on your feet over the socks. Next, heat the areas that are tight with a hair dryer on the highest setting. As the boot warms up, stretch and flex your foot to help stretch the leather out. Then, leave the boots on your feet until they are completely cool before taking them off. Finally, apply a leather conditioner to the boots to replenish any lost moisture. For tips on to stretch your boots with a homemade leather stretching spray, keep reading! Did this summary help you?YesNo

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Reader Success Stories

  • Ali Blixt

    Ali Blixt

    Mar 29, 2021

    "My friend bought me two different sizes of boots, both of them are too small. I love them but my toes rub the..." more
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Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Moe Draper Co-authored by: Moe Draper Shoe Care & Repair Specialist Co-authors: 9 Updated: January 24, 2025 Views: 1,111,110 96% of readers found this article helpful. 27 votes - 96% Click a star to add your vote Ali Blixt

Ali Blixt

Mar 29, 2021

"My friend bought me two different sizes of boots, both of them are too small. I love them but my toes rub the..." more Tyler H.

Tyler H.

Feb 8, 2018

"I was skeptical, but the heating technique worked great for my Redwing pull-on 3505s. They were tight in the..." more Anonymous

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Jan 15, 2017

"What made it easy was having so many options in the same article and the easy-to-follow graphics. I prefer graphics..." more Norman May

Norman May

Mar 14, 2017

"I bought a beautiful pair of Boulet boots from The Salvation Army. They fit really tight and hurt my feet. I used..." more Deborah Couvier

Deborah Couvier

Nov 22, 2017

"I used the blow dryer method, it works like magic. I walked around in the boots for about 5 minutes, doing various..." more Share yours! More success stories Hide success stories

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