How to Break-In New Dress Shoes

Picking up a new pair of dress shoes can be both exhilarating and excruciating. While you might be excited to wear your new shoes to an upcoming event or around the town, you're probably also dreading the prospect of breaking them in.

Since shoes are produced in batches of all the same shape while every human foot is different, there is going to be a period of time where the shoe needs to stretch and mold to your individual needs. New dress shoe discomfort is an issue that plagues many men, but it doesn't have to be. There are several tried-and-true ways to break in your new dress shoes and make them comfortable right away, as well as reliable products to soften new shoes.

The Sock Method

This is one of the most common hacks to avoid new shoe pain. First, slip on your thickest pair of socks. Then, grab a hair dryer and blast one of the shoes all over for at least a minute until it is soft and warm. Put the shoe on and repeat with the other foot. Then, walk around the house until the shoes have cooled, or even longer if possible. If you can do this a couple of times before your event, even better! The combination of the thick socks and heat from the hair dryer will help to mold and stretch your shoe into the shape of your foot.

The Freezer Method

The freezer method is a more extreme way to stretch out your shoes, but if you're in a pinch, it might be worth a try. By placing bags of water into your shoes and putting them in the freezer overnight, the water will freeze and the ice will expand to stretch out your shoe. While this method sounds okay in theory, it only works every now and then. There is a big risk for potential damage, something you want to avoid if you just bought a new pair of dress shoes! We would recommend the sock method above the freezer method almost every time.

The Spritz Method

This method is a quick-fix solution to help stiff leather dress shoes if you're in a hurry. Mix up a solution of rubbing alcohol and water and rub it into the inside of your shoes, then immediately put them on. The shoe will mold to the shape of your foot and feel more comfortable, but only temporarily. This method is okay if you're in a pinch, but you may find that the shoe still need breaking in after that initial wear.

Try break-em-in

If these methods haven't worked for you, break-em-in might be the perfect solution. The design was developed after years of detailed observation, market research, and tons of trial and error. You can use break-em-in regardless of the size or style of your shoe, as it can be trimmed to fit most shoe sizes. With features like an extra cushioned center, extension panel, and ankle support at the top, this is the most innovative and effective way to break in your stiff leather dress shoes. If you've been searching for products to make new shoes comfortable, the journey stops here.