How to Use a Shoe Stretcher

Having a shoe stretcher can help people with certain problems with their feet, including bunion, calluses, swollen feet and ill-fitting shoes. The best stretchers are made with sturdy materials and come with several holes that can be adjusted to target specific problem areas. These are useful for both women and men.

A shoe stretcher can be a very useful tool when breaking in new shoes. The first step is to select the right one for you. They come in different designs, sizes and materials. Some are adjustable and allow you to adjust the length of the shoes. They are also designed for varying types of shoes. These include men's and women's boots, work boots and dress heels.

When you are ready to use your shoe stretcher, it is important that you read the instructions carefully. These will explain the steps you need to take. Once you are comfortable with the steps, it is a good idea to practice using the stretcher on an old pair of shoes. You should also be aware that the process will require repeated adjustments. You may need to spend a few days to get the correct fit. It is a good idea to have a plan in place if you are planning to use a stretcher for a long period of time. You should also keep track of the number of times you have to turn it.

If you are trying to break in a new pair of shoes, it is a good idea to use a one-way shoe stretcher. This type of stretcher places pressure on the vamp and toe box of your shoe, which can help alleviate pain. If you have a bunion, you may want to choose a stretcher that has a built-in bunion plug. You will find that most of the shoe stretchers on the market have this feature.

You can also choose a shoe stretcher that has an adjustable length. These are generally better for women's shoes. You will need to leave the stretcher in the shoes for at least 6-8 hours before wearing them. It is important to not overstretch the shoes. This can cause the shoes to loosen and even damage them.

If you have a pair of leather or suede shoes, you may find it easier to use a plastic or wooden stretcher. Plastic ones feel like they are breaking when they are being tightened, while a wooden one will feel more natural. You will need to make sure that your stretcher has a guiding wheel that is wide enough to fit the size of your shoes. You should also take note of the number of turns you have to make to make the shoes stretch. You can usually repeat the procedure as needed.

You can also purchase a shoe stretcher that will expand the width of your shoes. These are available in seven different sizes, and they have heart-shaped handles that will allow you to push the shoe out in the area you want. This will result in a more comfortable fit.