Difference between revisions of "Stretch Boots"
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#Learn how to use this method properly. This is an easy and effective method for small to medium adjustments, but you shouldn't expect a full size change. For that you'll need a shoe stretching liquid and/or boot stretcher. | #Learn how to use this method properly. This is an easy and effective method for small to medium adjustments, but you shouldn't expect a full size change. For that you'll need a shoe stretching liquid and/or boot stretcher. | ||
#*This method works because the water will expand when frozen, pushing into the shoe. It has nothing to do with the boots becoming wet, which could actually shrink or damage them. | #*This method works because the water will expand when frozen, pushing into the shoe. It has nothing to do with the boots becoming wet, which could actually shrink or damage them. | ||
| − | #Fill two resealable bags partially with water. Fill two Ziploc bags or other freezer-safe plastic bag roughly 1/3 full of water. Squeeze out as much of the air as possible before sealing.<ref>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5mcqj5iUplo</ref> | + | #Fill two resealable bags partially with water. Fill two Ziploc bags or other freezer-safe plastic bag roughly 1/3 full of water. Squeeze out as much of the air as possible before sealing.<ref name="rf1">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5mcqj5iUplo</ref> |
#*Use a bag that will fit snugly into the part of the boot that needs stretching. A quart (liter) bag works for most toes and heels, while you may need a gallon (4 liter) bag to stretch the calf of the boot. | #*Use a bag that will fit snugly into the part of the boot that needs stretching. A quart (liter) bag works for most toes and heels, while you may need a gallon (4 liter) bag to stretch the calf of the boot. | ||
#*To remove the air, seal most of the way and leave a small gap. Gently press the portion of the bag containing air until most of the air has exited and the plastic is nearly flat. | #*To remove the air, seal most of the way and leave a small gap. Gently press the portion of the bag containing air until most of the air has exited and the plastic is nearly flat. | ||
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#*Leather stretching liquids will '''not''' work for synthetic boots, and vice versa. Some are specialized for patent leather or other subtypes, so read the label carefully. | #*Leather stretching liquids will '''not''' work for synthetic boots, and vice versa. Some are specialized for patent leather or other subtypes, so read the label carefully. | ||
#*Check the label for special instructions. If a specific product requires a different method, follow its instructions. | #*Check the label for special instructions. If a specific product requires a different method, follow its instructions. | ||
| − | #*Dilute the rubbing alcohol with equal parts water before using to avoid abrading the boot's material.<ref>http://lifehacker.com/5855028/quickly-break-in-a-new-pair-of-shoes-with-rubbing-alcohol</ref> | + | #*Dilute the rubbing alcohol with equal parts water before using to avoid abrading the boot's material.<ref name="rf2">http://lifehacker.com/5855028/quickly-break-in-a-new-pair-of-shoes-with-rubbing-alcohol</ref> |
#Prepare a work surface. Lay down some black and white newspapers to catch spills and drips, or work over concrete where they won't matter. | #Prepare a work surface. Lay down some black and white newspapers to catch spills and drips, or work over concrete where they won't matter. | ||
#*Don't use colored newspapers, as the ink can transfer onto the boots. | #*Don't use colored newspapers, as the ink can transfer onto the boots. | ||
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===Using Boot Stretchers=== | ===Using Boot Stretchers=== | ||
| − | #Select the correct stretcher. Pick one designed to stretch the area you need, or you'll expand the boot in the wrong places.<ref>http://www.heelingtouch.com/how-to-stretch-shoes.html</ref> Stretchers are an excellent way to achieve significant stretching, especially when paired with shoe stretching liquid. | + | #Select the correct stretcher. Pick one designed to stretch the area you need, or you'll expand the boot in the wrong places.<ref name="rf3">http://www.heelingtouch.com/how-to-stretch-shoes.html</ref> Stretchers are an excellent way to achieve significant stretching, especially when paired with shoe stretching liquid. |
#*A two-way stretcher will stretch the foot's length and width. | #*A two-way stretcher will stretch the foot's length and width. | ||
#*A toe stretcher lifts the toe portion higher. | #*A toe stretcher lifts the toe portion higher. | ||
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#Be aware of the risks. Too much heat can damage boots, so never hold the hairdryer against them or heat them too long. This method is good for making your boot more comfortable, but cannot stretch it to a new size. | #Be aware of the risks. Too much heat can damage boots, so never hold the hairdryer against them or heat them too long. This method is good for making your boot more comfortable, but cannot stretch it to a new size. | ||
#Wear thick socks inside the boots. A second pair of socks will allow for greater stretch. You won't need to wear the boots for long, so don't worry too much about hurting your feet. | #Wear thick socks inside the boots. A second pair of socks will allow for greater stretch. You won't need to wear the boots for long, so don't worry too much about hurting your feet. | ||
| − | #Turn on the hair dryer. Aim the hair dryer at the area of the boot that needs stretching. Hold it a few inches (about 10 cm) away from the boot and only turn it on for a few seconds.<ref>http://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2009/aug/23/how-to-stretch-tight-shoes</ref> | + | #Turn on the hair dryer. Aim the hair dryer at the area of the boot that needs stretching. Hold it a few inches (about 10 cm) away from the boot and only turn it on for a few seconds.<ref name="rf4">http://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2009/aug/23/how-to-stretch-tight-shoes</ref> |
#*Move your foot around inside the boot or curl and stretch your toes for better stretching. | #*Move your foot around inside the boot or curl and stretch your toes for better stretching. | ||
#Wear them until they cool down. Walk until the boots have lost the heat from the hair dryer. | #Wear them until they cool down. Walk until the boots have lost the heat from the hair dryer. | ||
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== Warnings == | == Warnings == | ||
*Once stretched, leather boots will not go back to their previous shape. | *Once stretched, leather boots will not go back to their previous shape. | ||
| − | *If your leather boots get soaked in water, let them dry out naturally instead of applying heat to minimize shrinking.<ref | + | *If your leather boots get soaked in water, let them dry out naturally instead of applying heat to minimize shrinking.<ref name="rf4" /> |
== Things You'll Need == | == Things You'll Need == | ||
