Leather boots are a popular item in many closets, but they can often be difficult to break in. With this guide, you will learn multiple methods to soften leather boots effectively. We’ll also provide reviews of some popular products that can help with this process. So whether your leather boots are new or old, stiff or just uncomfortable, follow our tips and tricks and you’ll be wearing them in no time!
What You’ll Need to Soften Leather Boots?
Of course, there are a few items you’ll need in order to successfully soften your leather boots. To start off, you should have access to some sort of softening cream or conditioner (we’ll discuss what kind later on). You may also want to get a brush and/or sponge for applying the product.
Using the Mink Oil Process (Best Option)
The mink oil process is probably the best option for softening leather boots. Mink oil is a natural, wax-like substance that helps protect and waterproof leather while providing flexibility.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Mink oil;
- A soft cloth or sponge;
- Waterproofing sealant (optional);
Step 1: Clean the Leather
Before you can begin softening your leather boots, you need to make sure that they’re clean. Using a damp cloth or sponge, remove any dirt and grime from the surface of the boots. Let the boots dry until you’re ready to continue.
Step 2: Apply Mink Oil
Once your boots are clean and dry, you can apply the mink oil. Use a soft cloth or sponge to rub it onto the surface of the leather. Make sure to cover all parts of the boot and get into any seams or crevices. Allow the mink oil to sit on the leather for at least 30 minutes before wiping it off.
Step 3: Wipe Off Excess Mink Oil
Use a dry, soft cloth to wipe off any excess mink oil from the leather boots. Pay special attention to seams and crevices where the mink oil has pooled or hardened. Make sure you don’t leave behind any residue that could damage your leather boots.
Step 4: Wear and Break In
Put them on now so they can stretch with wear, then take some slow steps around the house or outside if possible to give those shoes some extra time under pressure from foot traffic before you debut them in public.
Using the Boot Stretcher Process (if Mink Oil Alone Doesn’t Work)
If mink oil fails to soften your work boots, consider a boot stretcher. Boot stretchers are devices that help stretch out tight leather and make it more pliable.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Boot stretcher;
- Waterproofing sealant (optional);
- Soft cloth or sponge;
Step 1: Clean the Leather
As with the mink oil process, make sure to clean your leather boots before proceeding. Wipe down the surface of the boots with a damp cloth or sponge to remove any dirt and grime. Allow them to dry before proceeding.
Step 2: Apply the Boot Stretcher
Insert the boot stretcher into your leather boots and begin to turn the handle until you feel resistance. The stretching should be even throughout each side of the boot, from the toe box down to the heel.
Step 3: Remove the Boot Stretcher
Once you’ve finished stretching your boots, remove the boot stretcher and allow the leather to rest for 15-30 minutes.
Step 4: Apply Waterproofing Sealant (optional)
If you’d like an extra layer of protection, you can apply a waterproofing sealant to your boots after stretching them. Use a soft cloth or sponge to rub it into the leather and then buff it off. Allow the sealant to dry completely before wearing your boots.
Step 5: Wear and Break In
Your leather boots should now be softened and ready to wear. Put them on and start walking around to help break them in even more. You can repeat this process as often as necessary until your boots are fully broken in.
Using the Freezer Process (Last Resort)
If all else fails, you can try the freezer method as a last resort. It involves taking your boots and placing them in the freezer overnight. This is known to cause leather fibers to relax, which will soften up stiff leather boots. However, it’s important to note that this process should be done with caution because if it’s done incorrectly, it can damage the leather beyond repair.
The freezer method involves taking your boots and wrapping them in a plastic bag to keep moisture out. Once the boots are sufficiently wrapped, place them in the freezer overnight. When you wake up, take them out of the bag and let them thaw for several hours before wearing them. [1]
Effective Methods Revealed
Leather boots are a timeless classic, but they can be tough and uncomfortable when you first get them. If your leather boots feel stiff, it’s important to soften them before they cause blisters and discomfort. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll share effective methods for how to soften leather boots:
Using A Boot Stretcher
When it comes to leather boots, a boot stretcher can be your saving grace. Boot stretchers are designed to soften leather boots, breaking them in and giving you that perfect fit. To use a boot stretcher effectively, put the boot on and insert the stretcher into the throat of the boot until it is firmly secured.
Next, turn the crank on the stretcher until it is snug. The stretching should be gradual and done over several days or weeks for the best results. Once you’ve achieved your desired fit, remove the boot stretcher and take off your boots.
Using A Stretching Spray
There are many ways to soften leather boots, but using a stretching spray is one of the most effective. When applied, it helps lubricate the material and makes them easier to stretch. This can be done by spraying the inside of your boot with the product, or by using a dedicated shoe stretcher that fits inside your boot. When choosing a stretching spray, be sure to go for one specifically designed for leather boots.
Wearing Leather Boots Indoors
Leather boots can be an excellent choice for those looking for fashion, comfort, and quality. Not only do they look great but they also provide superior protection from the elements as compared to other materials. However, leather boots that are not properly cared for can become rigid, uncomfortable, and even cracked.
One of the most common mistakes made by leather boot owners is wearing them indoors. Wearing leather boots indoors can cause the leather to dry out and become brittle, reducing its lifespan significantly. To avoid this, make sure you take your boots off when inside a building and store them in a cool, dry place.
Conditioning Leather Boots
When you buy a new pair of leather boots, it is important to start with a conditioning process that will help protect and soften the leather. This can involve using oils, waxes, or creams, depending on the type of leather and its condition. For starters, use a damp cloth to remove any dirt from the surface of the boots, then apply a thin layer of leather conditioner or wax. Use a soft, clean cloth to apply the polish evenly. Let it dry completely before putting your boots on.
Using Boot Trees in Leather Boots
To use them, simply insert one or two of them into each boot when you’re not wearing them. This will help keep the leather supple and prevent it from becoming creased or misshapen.
Stuffing Newspaper into Leather Boots
A tried and true method for softening leather boots is to stuff them with newspaper. It is critical to use paper that is unscented and without ink, like computer printer paper or newsprint. The paper should not be too thick but should still provide enough body to fill the entire boot. If you plan on keeping the boots for a long time, you should make sure that the paper does not disintegrate in the leather.
To stuff the newspaper into your boots:
- Take two pieces of paper and roll them lengthwise until they are like tubes;
- Insert one tube into each boot, making sure to push it all the way to the toe;
- Stuff more paper into each tube until the boot is completely filled and feels firm but not too tight;
- Leave them overnight and you should feel a noticeable difference in how soft they are in the morning [2];
How Do I Stretch Specific Parts Of My Leather Boots?
Use a combination of heat, moisture, and stretching techniques to lengthen specific parts of your leather boots.
The first step is to use a blow dryer on the area you want to be stretched. For this purpose, it’s best to use a hairdryer with an adjustable temperature setting and hold the nozzle to the boot for a few minutes.
The next step is to add moisture to the area you want to be stretched. To do this you can use water, lanolin-based leather conditioning cream, or a shoe stretcher spray, which helps penetrate and soften the leather fibers.
Once you’ve applied one of these products to your boots, use a shoe stretcher or your hands to stretch the leather out. Soft leather is more malleable and easier to work with than stiffer materials so don’t be afraid to apply pressure.
If you have an area of your boot that has become misshapen, you can use a shoe tree or other device intended for this purpose. A shoe tree is a wooden frame that holds the shape of your boot while it dries after being stretched or heat-treated.
Finally, if you’re having difficulty stretching areas like the toe box or ankle area, try using a leather conditioner with lanolin to soften the material further. This will help make it more pliable and easier to stretch. [3]
How Often Should I Stretch & Soften My Leather Boots?
For comfortable, long-lasting leather boots, it’s important to regularly stretch and soften them. How often this needs to be done depends on the type of boot, how much you wear them, and how aggressively you use them.
For everyday leather boots that are used moderately (worn a few times each week), it’s recommended that you stretch and soften them at least twice a year. For more heavily used leather boots, you should aim to do it once every 1-2 months. [4]
What To Take Note Of When Softening & Stretching Your Leather Boots?
When tackling the task of softening and stretching leather boots, there are a few things to take note of. To begin with, it’s important to use a quality product specifically designed for leather care. Make sure you read reviews on the product carefully so that you can get one that is most suitable for your needs.
Another thing to consider is the type of leather your boots are made of. Different types of leather respond differently to different products and methods, so it’s important to know what kind you have before beginning any softening or stretching processes.
Finally, it’s essential to be careful not to damage or over-stretch the leather when softening and stretching it. It’s best to use as gentle of a method as possible, such as a boot stretcher or conditioning cream over more extreme methods like boiling water or using a blow dryer. Additionally, avoid using any abrasive materials that could scratch the leather and cause damage. [5]
FAQ
What can you put on leather boots to make them softer?
There are a couple of ways you can make your leather boots more comfortable. The most common are conditioning the leather with a quality conditioner or cream, using warm water and a soft cloth, applying mink oil to the leather, and using saddle soap on the boots. Each method has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it is best to research the different options before deciding which one to use.
How do you soften stiff boots?
If you have a pair of stiff leather boots that are uncomfortable to wear or difficult to put on, there are several methods you can use in order to soften them and make them more comfortable. The first thing you should do is clean your boots with a soft cloth and warm water. This will remove any dirt or debris that may be making the leather stiff.
Another way is by wearing them regularly. The more you wear your boots, the softer they will become as the material conforms to your foot shape over time. Additionally, if you can’t wear them right away, make sure to stuff them with a soft material such as newspaper or cloth to help keep their shape intact.
Lastly, if you have boots that are particularly stiff, you can try using a leather-softening product specifically designed for this purpose. These products usually contain natural ingredients that will help break down the stiffness of leather without damaging the material. It’s important to remember, however, that these products should be used sparingly and with caution.
How do you break in stiff leather boots?
Breaking in stiff leather boots can be a difficult process, but you can use several techniques to help soften the leather and make them more comfortable. The most effective methods of softening leather boots include wearing them with thick socks, using a boot-stretching spray or liquid, applying oil or wax conditioners, and using heat.
What is the best leather softener?
For those who need a quick fix when their leather boots feel stiff or uncomfortable, mink oil is an ideal solution. It is applied directly to the leather, absorbs quickly, and softens the material without leaving any residue or discoloration. Mink oil also helps protect leather against water damage and creasing.
For those looking for a more comprehensive solution, there are specialty products available that offer deep conditioning of your leather boots. These products are specifically designed to soften and condition leather, providing a longer-lasting result.
Does Vaseline soften leather?
Yes, Vaseline is a great way to soften the leather. However, you have to be careful not to use too much Vaseline on leather boots as it can cause the petroleum jelly to get inside the boot and discolor or damage it. To use Vaseline for softening your leather boots, begin by cleaning the boots thoroughly with a leather cleaner and allowing them to dry. Once dry, simply apply some Vaseline to a soft cloth or sponge and use this in circular motions over the entire boot. Allow the Vaseline to sit for several minutes before wiping it off with a damp cloth and then buffing your boots with a soft brush for an even softer finish.
Is it normal for leather boots to be tight at first?
Yes, it is normal for leather boots to be tight at first. Leather is a tough material and needs time to break in and conform to your feet. With the right techniques, you can soften up leather boots quickly so that they are comfortable enough to wear with ease.
What’s the fastest way to break in boots?
One of the fastest ways to break in boots is by wearing them around the house with thick socks or socks covered with plastic bags. By following this method, your leather shoes will better contour your feet and be more comfortable as a result.
Another way to break in boots quickly is by using a softening cream or oil. These products are specially formulated to penetrate deep into the fibers of the leather and make it more pliable.
How do you break in boots in a week?
Breaking in boots can be a lengthy process, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are some tips for softening up leather boots within a week:
- Wear your boots around the house to help them conform to the shape of your foot faster. Wearing socks and walking on the carpet can help to add extra cushioning and protection;
- Flex your boots while you’re wearing them to help the leather stretch and mold around your foot;
- Apply a leather conditioner to the inside and outside of the boots. A quality conditioner can soften, nourish, and protect the leather in just one application;
- Once you’ve worn them around the house for a few days, head out and wear them on short errands. Start walking around the block, and increase your distance each day to help soften the leather quicker;
- Try putting wet towels in your boots overnight. This will not only help make them more comfortable but also break down any rigid areas that may be causing discomfort or pain;
How long do leather boots take to break in?
Breaking in leather boots is a gradual process, but how long it takes depends on the type and quality of the leather. Generally speaking, high-quality leather boots should be broken in after about 6 to 8 weeks if you are wearing them regularly. Poorly made or low-quality leather can take much longer to break in. When breaking in leather boots, it is important to be patient and allow the leather time to soften naturally.
How many hours does it take to break in boots?
Useful Video: How to BREAK IN BOOTS | FASTEST, EASIEST Method
Conclusion
Now that you have a good understanding of the process used to soften leather boots, it’s time to put it into practice. Whether you choose to use a natural method or a chemical treatment, be sure to take your time and follow the instructions carefully. With proper care and maintenance, you can keep your boots looking great for years to come!
If you’re still not sure how to soften leather boots correctly, or if you have any additional questions, feel free to leave a comment below and we’ll do our best to help! We hope you found this guide helpful and that it helps you find the perfect way to care for your leather boots.
References:
- https://bootspy.com/how-to-soften-leather-boots/
- https://www.hoodmwr.com/how-to-soften-leather-shoes/
- https://www.leatherskill.com/how-to-soften-and-stretch-leather-boots/
- https://nicksboots.com/blog/post/3-proven-methods-to-soften-leather-boots/
- https://www.timberland.co.uk/customer-care/product-faqs/how-to-stretch-and-soften-leather-footwear.html