Leather shoes are comfortable, durable, stylish, along with a suite of other benefits. But they can be uncomfortable in the early days, during the breaking in process where they eventually soften and shape themselves to your feet.
If you’ve got a pair of leather shoes causing you discomfort and you’re wondering how to soften them, let us help. This detailed guide will tell you everything you need to know to soften your leather shoes, whether they’re sandals, boots or anything in between.
Here’s what we’ll cover in this guide to softening leather shoes:
- Understanding leather types and characteristics
- Preparing your leather shoes for softening
- Methods for softening leather shoes
- Natural methods for softening leather
- Aftercare for your leather shoes
You can also browse our cosy and classic shoes, and our premium comfort features, over at The Comfort Hub.
Understanding Leather Types and Characteristics
There are several different types of leather, all of which are used in shoe manufacturing. Depending on which type(s) of leather are present in your shoes, you may need to use different methods for softening to prevent damage and to maximise comfort.
Here are the different types:
- Full-grain leather: a high-quality type of leather that is very durable. It’s very thick and stiff but softens well with time and care are taken in the softening process.
- Top-grain leather: has a smoother surface than full-grain and is slightly less durable. It is easier to soften than full-grain.
- Patent leather: a type of leather with a glossy finish that is resistant to softening treatments but can be softened with the right approach.
- Suede: a soft type of leather that responds best to softening treatments that use minimal moisture.
Identifying the types of leather in your shoe is important before moving onto softening treatments. Check the product label, read the manufacturer information about the shoe or, if you’re feeling confident, examine them yourself.
How to Prepare Your Leather Shoes for Softening
Getting your shoe ready for softening is an important part of the process. Clean, well-prepared shoes will respond better to softening treatment, and you’ll protect other parts of the shoe from exposure.
Here’s what you need to do:
1. Clean the surface of the shoe with a soft, damp cloth or a special leather cleaning wipe. Be gentle and avoid covering the shoe with excess moisture - this can cause damage.
2. Remove the laces, if your shoe has them. For boots and other laced leather shoes, removing the laces will keep them away from the softening treatment and avoid damage.
3. Let the shoes dry completely before applying any softening products - this takes time, so make sure to factor it into the overall process.
With shoes cleaned and prepared, it’s time to move on to the softening process itself.
Methods for Softening Leather Shoes
As we mentioned, there are various methods available and the most appropriate depends on the type of leather in your shoe. In this section we’ll cover the methods and the types of leather they’re best suited to.
Using Leather Conditioner
Leather conditioner is a substance that penetrates the leather fibre, adds moisture, and makes them more pliable. The result is a softer, better fitting shoe.
For leather conditioner, it’s important to choose the right type: there are many available, with each designed to work on a specific type (or types) of leather. When conditioning shoes, avoid products with harsh chemicals as they can cause damage.
When applying conditioner, use small amounts. Apply with a soft or microfiber cloth and use circular motions to gently cover the entire surface.
Then, once applied, let it absorb fully - best results occur after a few hours, so leaving the shoes overnight is recommended.
Use Leather Oil or Balm
Leather balm is similar to conditioner, and the application process is similar as well. Balms work well for thicker materials like full-grain leather boots.
1. Use small amounts: dab some balm onto a clean cloth, then rub it into the surface of your shoe with circular motions. Avoid over-application as this can lead to stretching.
2. Let it rest: give it a few hours to ensure maximum softening can take place.
3. Buff the shoes when you’re done: use a soft cloth to buff the surface of your shoes and restore their natural shine
Use Leather Stretching Spray
Leather stretching sprays are designed specifically to relax the fibres in the leather of your shoes, making it easier to soften them. This is great for shoes that are too tight.
As with the previous two methods, a light application is recommended: spray only the areas of the shoe that feel tight or stiff, and make sure to read the product instructions beforehand.
Once the spray is on, wear the shoes. The natural motion of your walking will help to stretch the leather in accordance with your gait and the shape of your foot. Wear them for at least 30 minutes and walk as much as possible during this time.
If the first application doesn’t soften your shoes enough, repeat the previous steps. Tough leather may need a few applications to soften the desired amount.
Natural Methods for Softening Leather
Each of the methods above relies on a manmade product, whether it be conditioner, balm, or spray. If you’d rather try natural remedies first, then this section is for you.
Soften Leather with Heat
Used with caution, heat can be effective in softening leather shoes. Here’s how:
- Use a hairdryer on a low setting to gently warm the leather, keeping it at least 6 inches away from the shoe to prevent damage.
- Massage the leather gently with your hand as it warms to loosen the fibres and improve flexibility.
Wear Your Shoes to Break Them In
If you’re reading this guide, you’ve probably tried this method already, but we’ve included it just in case. Wearing your leather shoes is actually one of the best ways of softening them and breaking them in and will lead to them being moulded to the shape of your feet.
- Wear for short periods initially, as you may find longer periods are uncomfortable or even painful. This will let the leather stretch gradually, and you should feel your shoes becoming comfier as you go.
- Wear thick socks while wearing the shoes: this has the combined benefit of stretching the leather and keeping your feet more protected against soreness and blistering.
Post Care for Leather Shoes
When your leather shoes have been sufficiently softened, taking good care of them will help to extend their life and maximise their comfort. We recommend conditioning them regularly, storing them in a cool, dry place away from damp and direct sunlight, and avoiding excessive moisture. Leather is susceptible to water damage, so use waterproofing spray for prevention or adequate drying techniques for cure.
Enjoy the Soft and Comfy Leather
Leather is a timeless shoe material, and for good reason. Not only is it comfortable and stylish, it’s also incredibly durable, waterproof, and easy to take care of. And while it’s true that breaking a pair of leather shoes in can be uncomfortable, there are ways to ease the process, and the payoff is more than worth it. We hope our guide to softening leather shoes has been helpful in equipping you with the knowledge you need to get your leather shoes to maximum comfort.
If you’d like to add a pair of leather shoes to your collection, take a look at our range today- it contains boots and sandals and everything in between. You can also check out our other guides and blog posts, or get in touch with our team if you have any other questions about shoe care - we’ll be happy to help.