How To Break In New Boots and Avoid Blisters

Nothing is more exciting than finding that perfect pair of boots. Yet, nothing is as disappointing as when those same boots take forever to break in and leave your feet blistered. Breaking in new boots can be tricky, especially when you want to wear them as soon as you buy them. Learn our secrets to breaking in new boots and avoiding those pesky blisters. Give your feet the comfort they deserve!

The Importance of Breaking In Your New Boots

Like most footwear, your new boots won’t be a perfect fit straight out of the box. They’ll adapt to the unique contours and features of your feet over time. Therefore, breaking in your boots is essential for your comfort.

If you wear your new boots for a fun night out without a break-in period, you will likely experience discomfort, rubbing, and painful blisters. While it might be tempting to sport your new boots the day after you buy them, remember that patience can go a long way in ensuring your feet’s comfort.

How To Break In New Boots

Chose Your Footwear Carefully

Choosing quality footwear is a crucial first step toward comfort. High-quality boots are designed with superior materials and techniques, promoting a better fit. They typically feature structured insoles, arch support, and durable materials that mold to your feet over time. While these boots may require a break-in period of days or weeks, they provide great support for your feet and reduce the likelihood of discomfort and blisters.

Conversely, low-quality boots often lack these features, leading to an uncomfortable fit and potential discomfort no matter how long you try to break them in.

Investing in quality footwear not only contributes to foot comfort but also saves you the hassle of dealing with pain and blisters. When selecting new boots, prioritize quality to ensure long-term comfort and a painless break-in experience.

Soak the Boots in Water

Soaking your boots in water can expedite the break-in process. The logic behind it is quite simple: Water softens the material of the boots, making them more pliable and allowing them to mold to the shape of your feet. Submerge your boots in water for at least 30 minutes or until they’re thoroughly soaked, then wear them for a few hours until they dry.

Approach this method with caution. Not all boot materials can withstand being submerged in water for extended periods. High-quality leather boots can handle this method, but boots made of synthetic materials or delicate fabrics may sustain damage from a soak.

It’s always best to check the manufacturer’s instructions or consult a footwear professional before trying this method. Remember that the goal is to increase your comfort, not shorten the lifespan of your boots!

Gently Warm the Material

Warming up the material of your boots is another effective method of speeding up the break-in process. Applying gentle heat to your shoes can soften the materials, making them more flexible and easier to mold to the shape of your feet. To do this, put on a pair of thick socks (to protect your feet from the heat) and put on your boots. Use a hairdryer to blow warm air over the tight areas of the boots for about 20–30 seconds. Then, keep the boots on your feet until they cool down.

This technique works particularly well with real leather boots, as the heat makes the leather more supple and allows it to adapt to the contours of your feet. However, exercise caution when applying heat. Too much heat can dry out the leather, which may lead to cracks and cause irreparable damage to your boots.

Keep in mind that you should gently warm the material, not make it hot. Use a low heat setting on your hairdryer, and hold it at a safe distance from the boots to prevent overheating.

Wear the Boots for Small Periods at a Time

Gradually wearing your new boots is another effective strategy to break them in. Initially, wear your boots for short periods of time, such as around the house or for brief outings. This will allow your feet to get accustomed to the new footwear and give the boots time to adjust to the shape of your feet.

As the boots get more comfortable, you can wear them for longer periods of time. As the boots adjust to your feet, you’ll notice less discomfort. Putting in this effort can help you make sure your new boots feel as good as they look!

How To Avoid Blisters With New Boots

Wear Thick Socks

Wearing thick socks is an effective way to prevent blisters when breaking in new boots. The thickness of the material creates a buffer between your foot and the boot, reducing friction that can lead to blister formation. When your shoes are new and not yet perfectly molded to the shape of your feet, this extra layer can be a lifesaver, or rather a foot-saver! Remember to wear comfortable socks made from breathable materials.

Use Gel Insoles

Utilizing gel insoles is another approach for minimizing the possibility of developing blisters during the break-in process. The cushioning properties of gel insoles enhance the comfort of your boots and reduce friction between your feet and the shoes. This drastically decreases the chance of hot spots and blisters forming. Additionally, gel insoles distribute pressure evenly across your foot when walking or standing, which alleviates stress in certain areas prone to blistering.

Put Bandages on Blisters

Applying bandages is a simple yet effective way to alleviate pain from blisters when breaking in your new boots. You should apply bandages on areas prone to blistering to create a protective layer between your skin and the shoe. This reduces friction and prevents the formation of blisters. If you already have blisters, applying a bandage can protect the sensitive area from further friction and speed up healing.

Breaking in a new pair of boots can be painless! With patience and a willingness to dedicate time to the process, you can comfortably break in your new boots and avoid blisters. Arrow Twenty-Two has a wide array of Corkys women’s shoes and boots that will elevate your wardrobe. If you need to break in these fabulous boots, remember our tips to make your new shoes as comfortable as possible.