Knowing that you can expect genuine leather shoes to stretch and shrink, you may be wondering what size to buy to limit the issues you face with proper fitting. In this article, you\u2019ll learn how to choose the best fit and how you can stretch or shrink them when necessary, among other relevant information.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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Are Leather Shoes Supposed to Be Tight? How to Choose the Best Fit<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"buying](\"https:\/\/helpshoe.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Canva-Young-couple-buying-winter-shoes-in-a-shoe-store.jpg\" "\\"Young")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nChoosing your shoe size might help you when you start looking for leather shoes, but remember that there are seams and varying manufacturers to think about. The following tips should help you get leather shoes that fit you even when they stretch and shrink:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Get professional measurements.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Take note of the seams.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Try on the shoes in the afternoon.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Choose a slightly smaller size.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Consider the type of shoe.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Walk around in the new shoes.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nGet Professional Measurements<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"3D](\"https:\/\/helpshoe.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Canva-3D-foot-scanner.jpg\" "\\"3D")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nYou can use a foot scanner<\/a> or even get expert advice from shoemakers and sellers in your area. This will help you fit into any shoes regardless of the type of measurements the particular manufacturer uses. You may be able to get two different-sized shoes, split-sized shoes<\/a>, (article) from some stores. <\/p>\n\n\n\nYou can get measured using a Brannock device near your home or get one of your own. A Brannock Device<\/a> (AD) will help you measure your foot in all dimensions using the instructions that come with it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nTake Note of the Seams<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"shoe](\"https:\/\/helpshoe.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Canva-One-Shoe-Isolated.jpg\" "\\"One")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nAlthough leather stretches, seams<\/a> (article) don\u2019t. Therefore, don\u2019t count on a leather shoe with multiple seams to stretch over time if it squeezes and hurts around the time of purchase. Even if leather stretches, too many tight-fitting seams can render the stretchability of the leather shoes useless.<\/p>\n\n\n\nFor instance, if you get full brogue<\/a> (article) and seamless<\/a> (article) leather shoes derived from the same leather, the seamless ones will stretch more than the full brogue ones. Therefore, counting on the full brogue types to lessen their squeeze and fit like the seamless ones might lead to disappointment.<\/p>\n\n\n\nNot all leather shoe seam designs will fit you simply because the shoes are the same size. Some will squeeze too much without stretching over time, while others may overstretch if they feel too loose when new. So, keep the seam designs in mind when choosing a leather shoe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nTry on the Shoes in the Afternoon<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nScience states<\/a> (article) that your feet reach their maximum size during the afternoon when the temperature is often at its peak. Therefore, this is the perfect moment to try on leather shoes since you\u2019ll find those that \u201chug\u201d your feet the right way. If the leather shoes fit your feet when they are at their largest size, they can fit when they are at their smallest.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nChoose a Slightly Smaller Size<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"Man](\"https:\/\/helpshoe.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Canva-Man-Trying-on-Shoes.jpg\" "\\"Man")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nLeather shoes stretch with use over time<\/strong>. Therefore, choosing a bigger size than your feet will result in a loose shoe over time. That\u2019s why you need to let the shoes \u201chug\u201d you instead of providing your feet with wiggle room when they\u2019re new. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nConsider the Type of Shoe<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nAre your shoes laced or not? Has the leather extended high above your ankles? Loafers need a tighter fit than laced shoes since they have nothing to enhance the grip other than the shoe fit itself. Therefore, choosing leather loafers and laced oxfords of the same size will be a bad idea. For instance, if your shoe size lies around 8, it\u2019s best to choose a loafer that\u2019s a size 8 and an oxford that\u2019s a size 8.5.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nWalk Around in the New Shoes<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nWhen a leather shoe is new, it can feel too tight if you choose your standard shoe size, but don\u2019t give up just yet. Walk around<\/a> (article) on a soft carpet in your new shoes to avoid scratches on the sole. This helps you adjust them around your feet and determine if they can be comfortable in the long run<\/a>. (article)<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nShrinking and Stretching Leather Shoes<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"walk](\"https:\/\/helpshoe.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Canva-Black-shoes-standing-at-the-cross-road.jpg\" "\\"Black")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nYou now know that leather shoes shrink or stretch depending on the conditions they are subjected to. Is it wise to buy big or small leather shoes<\/a> (article) simply because they\u2019re a steal and you can stretch or shrink them? Definitely not. However, sometimes it\u2019s the only necessary measure for a perfect fit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nHow to Stretch Leather Shoes<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nEven though the first remedy of tight leather shoes is to wear them, further stretching may be needed when long walks don’t work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n\nLet a Pro Stretch Them<\/strong> <\/h4><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\nIf you think you\u2019re not good at DIY practices, it\u2019s better to leave the stretching job to a pro. Most shoemakers and repairers understand leather shoes and how to stretch particular materials in the best manner. They are the best option if you want to avoid ruining expensive leather shoes with DIY hacks gone wrong.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n\nStretch the Shoes with Professional Tools<\/strong> <\/h4><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\nIf you\u2019ve been wearing the shoes for days and you still get resistance from the leather walls, consider getting professional leather stretching tools to achieve a comfortable fit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You can use a versatile shoe stretcher<\/a> (AD) plus a shoe stretch spray<\/a>. (AD) The shoe stretcher can be adjusted to expand the shoes in length and width while the spray helps to make the leather more workable.<\/p>\n\n\n\nHere\u2019s how to stretch your shoes using professional shoe-stretching tools:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Apply the shoe stretch spray evenly to relax the leather fibers on the inside out. <\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Put stretching plugs in areas that squeeze most to bring discomfort and inflammations.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Insert the shoe stretcher and mildly adjust its stretch size to achieve the one you desire.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Wait for six to eight hours for the new stretch to settle in and check the fit.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Repeat the process until you get the desired fit.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nUse the Freezer Method<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n![\"Shoe](\"https:\/\/helpshoe.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Canva-Shoe-in-the-refrigerator.jpg\" "\\"Shoe")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nIn this DIY hack, you only need a ziplock bag and water. You\u2019ll be taking advantage of the water’s characteristics to expand by nine percent when frozen<\/a>. (article)<\/p>\n\n\n\nHere\u2019s how to stretch a leather shoe using frozen water:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Fill a ziplock bag with water, leaving some space for the expansion.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Insert it in your leather shoes, making sure to stuff the target areas that need stretching.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Put the shoes in the freezer for at least eight hours.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- After eight hours, take the shoes out of the freezer and thaw the ice.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Try the shoes on for some time and repeat the process if they aren\u2019t stretched enough.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
You need to thaw the ice before pulling the ziplock bag out to avoid tearing or other damage to your leather shoes. Also, ensure that you use durable zip lock bags to avoid tearing since the water can damage the leather.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nChoosing your shoe size might help you when you start looking for leather shoes, but remember that there are seams and varying manufacturers to think about. The following tips should help you get leather shoes that fit you even when they stretch and shrink:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Get professional measurements.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Take note of the seams.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Try on the shoes in the afternoon.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Choose a slightly smaller size.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Consider the type of shoe.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Walk around in the new shoes.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nGet Professional Measurements<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n
\n<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nYou can use a foot scanner<\/a> or even get expert advice from shoemakers and sellers in your area. This will help you fit into any shoes regardless of the type of measurements the particular manufacturer uses. You may be able to get two different-sized shoes, split-sized shoes<\/a>, (article) from some stores. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
You can get measured using a Brannock device near your home or get one of your own. A Brannock Device<\/a> (AD) will help you measure your foot in all dimensions using the instructions that come with it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nTake Note of the Seams<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n
\n<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nAlthough leather stretches, seams<\/a> (article) don\u2019t. Therefore, don\u2019t count on a leather shoe with multiple seams to stretch over time if it squeezes and hurts around the time of purchase. Even if leather stretches, too many tight-fitting seams can render the stretchability of the leather shoes useless.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For instance, if you get full brogue<\/a> (article) and seamless<\/a> (article) leather shoes derived from the same leather, the seamless ones will stretch more than the full brogue ones. Therefore, counting on the full brogue types to lessen their squeeze and fit like the seamless ones might lead to disappointment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Not all leather shoe seam designs will fit you simply because the shoes are the same size. Some will squeeze too much without stretching over time, while others may overstretch if they feel too loose when new. So, keep the seam designs in mind when choosing a leather shoe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nTry on the Shoes in the Afternoon<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Science states<\/a> (article) that your feet reach their maximum size during the afternoon when the temperature is often at its peak. Therefore, this is the perfect moment to try on leather shoes since you\u2019ll find those that \u201chug\u201d your feet the right way. If the leather shoes fit your feet when they are at their largest size, they can fit when they are at their smallest.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nChoose a Slightly Smaller Size<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n
\n<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nLeather shoes stretch with use over time<\/strong>. Therefore, choosing a bigger size than your feet will result in a loose shoe over time. That\u2019s why you need to let the shoes \u201chug\u201d you instead of providing your feet with wiggle room when they\u2019re new. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nConsider the Type of Shoe<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Are your shoes laced or not? Has the leather extended high above your ankles? Loafers need a tighter fit than laced shoes since they have nothing to enhance the grip other than the shoe fit itself. Therefore, choosing leather loafers and laced oxfords of the same size will be a bad idea. For instance, if your shoe size lies around 8, it\u2019s best to choose a loafer that\u2019s a size 8 and an oxford that\u2019s a size 8.5.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nWalk Around in the New Shoes<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
When a leather shoe is new, it can feel too tight if you choose your standard shoe size, but don\u2019t give up just yet. Walk around<\/a> (article) on a soft carpet in your new shoes to avoid scratches on the sole. This helps you adjust them around your feet and determine if they can be comfortable in the long run<\/a>. (article)<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nShrinking and Stretching Leather Shoes<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n
\n<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nYou now know that leather shoes shrink or stretch depending on the conditions they are subjected to. Is it wise to buy big or small leather shoes<\/a> (article) simply because they\u2019re a steal and you can stretch or shrink them? Definitely not. However, sometimes it\u2019s the only necessary measure for a perfect fit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nHow to Stretch Leather Shoes<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Even though the first remedy of tight leather shoes is to wear them, further stretching may be needed when long walks don’t work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n- \n
Let a Pro Stretch Them<\/strong> <\/h4><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
If you think you\u2019re not good at DIY practices, it\u2019s better to leave the stretching job to a pro. Most shoemakers and repairers understand leather shoes and how to stretch particular materials in the best manner. They are the best option if you want to avoid ruining expensive leather shoes with DIY hacks gone wrong.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n- \n
Stretch the Shoes with Professional Tools<\/strong> <\/h4><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
If you\u2019ve been wearing the shoes for days and you still get resistance from the leather walls, consider getting professional leather stretching tools to achieve a comfortable fit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You can use a versatile shoe stretcher<\/a> (AD) plus a shoe stretch spray<\/a>. (AD) The shoe stretcher can be adjusted to expand the shoes in length and width while the spray helps to make the leather more workable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Here\u2019s how to stretch your shoes using professional shoe-stretching tools:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Apply the shoe stretch spray evenly to relax the leather fibers on the inside out. <\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Put stretching plugs in areas that squeeze most to bring discomfort and inflammations.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Insert the shoe stretcher and mildly adjust its stretch size to achieve the one you desire.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Wait for six to eight hours for the new stretch to settle in and check the fit.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Repeat the process until you get the desired fit.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nUse the Freezer Method<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n
\n<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nIn this DIY hack, you only need a ziplock bag and water. You\u2019ll be taking advantage of the water’s characteristics to expand by nine percent when frozen<\/a>. (article)<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Here\u2019s how to stretch a leather shoe using frozen water:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Fill a ziplock bag with water, leaving some space for the expansion.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Insert it in your leather shoes, making sure to stuff the target areas that need stretching.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Put the shoes in the freezer for at least eight hours.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- After eight hours, take the shoes out of the freezer and thaw the ice.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Try the shoes on for some time and repeat the process if they aren\u2019t stretched enough.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
You need to thaw the ice before pulling the ziplock bag out to avoid tearing or other damage to your leather shoes. Also, ensure that you use durable zip lock bags to avoid tearing since the water can damage the leather.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- Insert it in your leather shoes, making sure to stuff the target areas that need stretching.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Put stretching plugs in areas that squeeze most to bring discomfort and inflammations.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Apply the shoe stretch spray evenly to relax the leather fibers on the inside out. <\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Take note of the seams.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
![\"Woman](\"https:\/\/helpshoe.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Canva-Woman-hands-hold-blue-hair-dryer-on-mint-blue.jpg\" "\\"Woman")
![\"Shoemaker](\"https:\/\/helpshoe.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Canva-Shoemaker-sews-shoes.jpg\" "\\"Shoemaker")
![\"Old](\"https:\/\/helpshoe.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Canva-Old-dirty-black-and-white-sneakers-shoes-with-water-in-wash-bucket..jpg\" "\\"Old")
![\"Top](\"https:\/\/helpshoe.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Canva-Top-view-of-a-man-cleaning-monk-shoes.jpg\" "\\"Top")
![\"men's](\"https:\/\/helpshoe.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Canva-mens-wooden-shoe-stretcher.jpg\" "\\"men's")
![\"socks](\"https:\/\/helpshoe.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Canva-A-girl-in-jeans-and-beautiful-leather-shoes-steps-over-the-marble-steps-of-the-staircase.jpg\" "\\"A")
![\"choose](\"https:\/\/helpshoe.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Canva-Shoes.jpg\" "\\"choose")