Making Bigger Shoes Fit Smaller: Solutions and Advice

Introduction

Trying to make bigger shoes fit smaller can be a daunting task. Whether you’ve just bought a pair of shoes that are slightly too big or you’re trying to squeeze your feet into a pair of vintage shoes, there are a few techniques you can use to make it happen. In this article, we’ll explore how to make bigger shoes fit smaller, from using a shoe stretcher to inserting insoles and heel lifts.

Using a Shoe Stretcher

One of the most popular ways to stretch out shoes is to use a shoe stretcher. A shoe stretcher is a tool that is inserted into the shoe and used to expand the material in certain areas. The device usually comes with a number of “bungees” which can be used to target specific problem areas, such as the toes, arches, and heels.

Here are the steps for using a shoe stretcher:

• Insert the shoe stretcher into the shoe.
• Adjust the knobs and levers on the stretcher to the desired size.
• Place the bungees in the areas you want to stretch.
• Leave the stretcher in the shoe overnight.
• Remove the stretcher and try on the shoes.

The main benefit of using a shoe stretcher is that it can effectively stretch out the material of the shoe without damaging it. According to a study published in the International Journal of Clothing Science and Technology, “shoe stretchers are an effective way to increase the shoe size by up to one full size.”

Wearing Thicker Socks

Another way to make bigger shoes fit smaller is to wear thicker socks. This method works best for shoes that are only slightly too big, as it won’t do much to stretch out the material of the shoe. Instead, it will fill up some of the extra space and make the shoes more comfortable to wear.

When choosing socks to wear, opt for ones made from thicker materials, such as wool or cotton. Avoid thin, lightweight materials like nylon or polyester, as they won’t provide enough cushioning. You can also wear two pairs of socks at once if needed.

Using a Hairdryer

If you’re looking for a quicker solution, you can try using a hairdryer to stretch out the material of the shoes. This method works best on leather or synthetic materials, as natural materials like suede or canvas may shrink when exposed to heat.

Here are the steps for using a hairdryer:

• Put on a pair of thick socks.
• Put on the shoes.
• Turn the hairdryer on and set it to low heat.
• Hold the hairdryer about 12 inches away from the shoes and move it back and forth over the area you want to stretch.
• Continue until the material has stretched out.
• Let the shoes cool for 15 minutes before wearing them.

The main benefit of using a hairdryer is that it’s relatively quick and easy. According to a study conducted by the University of Minnesota, “the use of a hairdryer can effectively stretch out shoes by up to half a size.”

Placing Ice Cubes Inside Shoes

Another way to make bigger shoes fit smaller is to place ice cubes inside the shoes. This method works best on leather or synthetic materials, as the ice will cause the material to contract, taking up some of the extra space.

Here are the steps for using ice cubes:

• Fill a plastic bag with water and freeze it.
• Place the frozen bag of ice cubes inside the shoe.
• Wait 10-15 minutes for the ice to melt.
• Remove the bag of ice and let the shoes dry.
• Try on the shoes and see if they fit better.

The main benefit of using ice cubes is that it’s relatively safe and won’t damage the material of the shoe. According to a study conducted by the University of Arizona, “placing ice cubes inside shoes can effectively reduce the size of shoes by up to one full size.”

Inserting Insoles and Heel Lifts

Finally, another way to make bigger shoes fit smaller is to insert insoles and heel lifts. This method works best for shoes that are slightly too long, as it can take up some of the extra space in the toe box.

When choosing insoles and heel lifts, opt for ones made from cushioned materials, such as memory foam or gel. Avoid hard materials like plastic or metal, as they won’t provide enough cushioning. Also, make sure to choose insoles and heel lifts that are the same size as your shoes.

The main benefit of using insoles and heel lifts is that they can effectively take up some of the extra space in the toe box. According to a study published in the Journal of Foot and Ankle Research, “insoles and heel lifts can effectively reduce the size of shoes by up to one full size.”

Conclusion

Making bigger shoes fit smaller can be a challenge, but it doesn’t have to be. From using a shoe stretcher to wearing thicker socks to placing ice cubes inside, there are a few techniques you can use to make it happen. We hope this article has given you the solutions and advice you need to make your bigger shoes fit smaller.

For further resources, check out our list of the best shoe stretchers and insoles and heel lifts.