Breaking in heels is the process of making them more comfortable to wear. This can be important for preventing blisters, pain, and other foot problems. There are a few different ways to break in heels, including wearing them for short periods of time, stretching them out, and using a shoe stretcher.
Breaking in heels can also help them to last longer. When shoes are not properly broken in, they are more likely to develop cracks and other damage. By taking the time to break in your heels, you can help them to look their best for longer.
Here are a few tips for breaking in heels:
Start by wearing your heels for short periods of time, such as 30 minutes to an hour. Gradually increase the amount of time you wear your heels as they become more comfortable. Stretch out your heels by wearing them around the house and doing simple exercises, such as walking up and down stairs. Use a shoe stretcher to help stretch out your heels. Apply a leather conditioner to your heels to help keep them soft and supple.
1. Time
Breaking in heels takes time and patience. It is important to start by wearing your heels for short periods of time, such as 30 minutes to an hour. This will help your feet to adjust to the height and shape of the heels. As your feet become more comfortable, you can gradually increase the amount of time you wear your heels.
Wearing your heels for short periods of time will also help to prevent blisters and other foot problems. When you wear heels for too long, your feet can become compressed and irritated. This can lead to blisters, corns, and other painful foot problems. By wearing your heels for short periods of time, you can give your feet a chance to rest and recover.
Once your feet have adjusted to the height and shape of your heels, you can start to wear them for longer periods of time. However, it is important to listen to your body and take breaks when needed. If your feet start to hurt, take off your heels and give them a rest. Wearing heels for too long can lead to serious foot problems, so it is important to be careful.
2. Stretching
Stretching is an important part of breaking in heels. When you wear heels, your feet are forced into an unnatural position. This can cause your muscles and tendons to tighten up, which can lead to pain and discomfort. Stretching can help to loosen up your muscles and tendons, which can make wearing heels more comfortable.
There are a number of simple exercises that you can do to stretch your heels. One simple exercise is to stand with your feet flat on the floor and then raise up onto your toes. Hold this position for 30 seconds and then release. Repeat this exercise 10-15 times.
Another simple exercise is to sit on the floor with your legs extended out in front of you. Then, reach forward and try to touch your toes. Hold this position for 30 seconds and then release. Repeat this exercise 10-15 times.
Stretching your heels regularly can help to break them in more quickly and make them more comfortable to wear. Stretching can also help to prevent foot problems, such as blisters, corns, and bunions.
3. Conditioning
Conditioning your heels is an important part of breaking them in. Leather conditioner helps to keep the leather soft and supple, which makes the shoes more comfortable to wear. It also helps to prevent the leather from cracking or peeling, which can extend the life of your heels.
- Prevents blisters and other foot problems: When leather is soft and supple, it is less likely to rub against your skin and cause blisters. Conditioning your heels regularly can help to prevent blisters and other foot problems.
- Makes the shoes more comfortable to wear: Soft, supple leather is more comfortable to wear than dry, stiff leather. Conditioning your heels can make a big difference in how comfortable your heels are to wear, especially if you are wearing them for long periods of time.
- Extends the life of your heels: Leather conditioner can help to extend the life of your heels by preventing the leather from cracking or peeling. This is especially important if you wear your heels frequently.
Conditioning your heels is a simple and effective way to break them in and make them more comfortable to wear. It is also a good way to extend the life of your heels.
4. Protection
Wearing bandages or moleskin on areas of your feet that are prone to blisters is an important part of breaking in heels. Blisters are caused by friction between your skin and the shoe, and they can be very painful. By protecting your feet with bandages or moleskin, you can reduce the risk of developing blisters.
There are a few different ways to apply bandages or moleskin to your feet. One way is to cut a small piece of bandage or moleskin and place it over the area of your foot that is prone to blisters. Another way is to wrap a bandage or moleskin around your entire foot. If you are wearing heels with a strap, you can also place a bandage or moleskin between your foot and the strap.
Wearing bandages or moleskin can help to prevent blisters, but it is important to note that it is not a foolproof method. If you are wearing heels for a long period of time, you may still develop blisters. However, wearing bandages or moleskin can help to reduce the risk of developing blisters and make your heels more comfortable to wear.
FAQs on How to Break In Heels
Breaking in heels is a common concern for many people, especially those who wear heels infrequently. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about how to break in heels:
Question 1: How long does it take to break in heels?
The time it takes to break in heels varies depending on the material, construction, and fit of the shoe. Generally, it takes several wears to break in a new pair of heels. However, some heels may require more time to break in than others.
Question 2: What is the best way to break in heels?
There are several methods to break in heels, including wearing them for short periods of time, stretching them out, and using a shoe stretcher. It is important to start by wearing the heels for short periods of time and gradually increase the duration as they become more comfortable.
Question 3: Can I wear heels without breaking them in?
Wearing heels without breaking them in can be uncomfortable and may lead to blisters or other foot problems. It is recommended to take the time to break in heels properly before wearing them for extended periods of time.
Question 4: What should I do if my heels are too tight?
If your heels are too tight, you can try stretching them out using a shoe stretcher or by wearing them with thick socks. You can also try applying a leather conditioner to the shoes to soften the leather and make them more pliable.
Question 5: What should I do if my heels are too loose?
If your heels are too loose, you can try adding heel grips or insoles to the shoes. You can also try wearing the heels with thicker socks to fill out the space.
Question 6: How can I prevent blisters when wearing heels?
To prevent blisters when wearing heels, you can wear bandages or moleskin on areas of your feet that are prone to blisters. You can also try applying a lubricant, such as petroleum jelly, to your feet before putting on your heels.
Summary: Breaking in heels takes time and patience. By following the tips above, you can break in your heels safely and comfortably. Remember to start by wearing your heels for short periods of time and gradually increase the duration as they become more comfortable. You can also try stretching them out, using a shoe stretcher, or applying a leather conditioner to the shoes.
Next Article Section: Caring for Heels
Tips on How to Break In Heels
Breaking in heels is an essential process for ensuring comfort and preventing foot problems. Here are five tips to help you break in your heels safely and effectively:
Tip 1: Start by wearing your heels for short periods of time
When you first get a new pair of heels, it is important to start by wearing them for short periods of time. This will help your feet to adjust to the height and shape of the heels. Start by wearing your heels for 30 minutes to an hour, and gradually increase the amount of time you wear them as they become more comfortable.
Tip 2: Stretch out your heels
Stretching your heels can help to break them in more quickly and make them more comfortable to wear. There are a number of simple exercises that you can do to stretch your heels. One simple exercise is to stand with your feet flat on the floor and then raise up onto your toes. Hold this position for 30 seconds and then release. Repeat this exercise 10-15 times.
Tip 3: Apply a leather conditioner to your heels
Conditioning your heels is an important part of breaking them in. Leather conditioner helps to keep the leather soft and supple, which makes the shoes more comfortable to wear. It also helps to prevent the leather from cracking or peeling, which can extend the life of your heels.
Tip 4: Wear bandages or moleskin on areas of your feet that are prone to blisters
Wearing bandages or moleskin on areas of your feet that are prone to blisters can help to prevent blisters from forming. Blisters are caused by friction between your skin and the shoe, and they can be very painful. By protecting your feet with bandages or moleskin, you can reduce the risk of developing blisters.
Tip 5: Use a shoe stretcher
If your heels are too tight, you can use a shoe stretcher to help stretch them out. Shoe stretchers are available at most shoe stores. To use a shoe stretcher, insert it into the heel of the shoe and then turn the knob to stretch the shoe. Allow the shoe to stretch for several hours or overnight.
Summary: Breaking in heels takes time and patience. By following the tips above, you can break in your heels safely and comfortably. Remember to start by wearing your heels for short periods of time and gradually increase the duration as they become more comfortable. You can also try stretching them out, using a shoe stretcher, or applying a leather conditioner to the shoes.
Next Article Section: Caring for Heels
Conclusion
Breaking in heels is an important process for ensuring comfort and preventing foot problems. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can break in your heels safely and effectively. Remember to start by wearing your heels for short periods of time and gradually increase the duration as they become more comfortable. You can also try stretching them out, using a shoe stretcher, or applying a leather conditioner to the shoes.
Once your heels are broken in, you can enjoy wearing them for many years to come. With proper care and maintenance, your heels will last longer and look their best.
