Extend the tops of the boots in the workshop. How to stretch the bootleg at home: effective methods, methods and recommendations. How to stretch leather boots

30.10.2019

How to stretch the bootleg? This question arises in the head of a fashionista who has purchased model boots that are slightly out of the size of the lower leg. Such situations are not uncommon for many women who follow fashion, trying to look as spectacular as possible, but do not think about their own comfort.

Everyone knows that boots are sewn taking into account the average woman's legs, they are mainly designed for a very narrow shin, which does not always correspond to reality. It's no secret that every beauty wants to look attractive at any time of the year. In winter, you have to walk in boots every day for at least 3-4 months. Therefore, boots should be comfortable: first of all, they should be comfortable, and secondly, beautiful. But often women, when choosing a new thing, do the opposite. This leads to the fact that after a while the boots in the boot begin to squeeze the legs strongly, it is uncomfortable to walk in them. To resolve the situation, women are looking for any way to stretch the tops of narrow boots.

Now on the shelves of shoe stores you can find a wide variety of models of women's boots. Boots are considered to be such models that cover the shin on the leg. It is hard to imagine that at the beginning of the twentieth century, such shoes were not yet in use. Nobody can say exactly when women's boots first appeared. Scientists suggest that the ancient Greek summer sandal boots with high lacing served as the prototype for this type of footwear. At that time in ancient Greece, they were worn by men and women. It was in Greece that the over-the-knee boots and summer models with open toes were later invented. They were worn only for special occasions: at dinner parties or for going out. It was only in the middle of the twentieth century that the first women's boots with zippers began to be sewn, which were decorated with all kinds of ribbons, applique and embroidery.

Times have changed a lot now. For more than 1 century, the technology of modern footwear production has undergone dramatic changes. Today, shoe manufacturers are trying to please fashionistas by releasing a variety of models.

To choose a suitable demi-season and winter footwear, taking into account the individual characteristics of the foot, it is necessary not only to select boots according to the size of the foot, but also to take into account the fixation of the zipper in the ankle zone. This is a very important point, as the boot leg should not feel discomfort when walking.

If a woman nevertheless bought winter or autumn boots that crush, and for nothing in the world does not want to part with them, then there is only one thing left - to stretch the boot on her own or go to a shoe shop.

Anyone who prefers to solve the problem on their own can be advised several ways to stretch the tops of leather or suede boots at home.

Before starting work, you need to clearly know what material the model of boots in need of repair is made of. The fact is that you can stretch the bootleg only for models made of genuine leather and suede. This can be achieved both with the help of special store tools, and by folk methods.

Stretching narrow boots in the boot at home

To independently stretch a model of boots that is narrow in the boot at home, you need to act in this way.

Make sure the boots are made from genuine leather and suede.
Even at the stage of buying shoes, you need to ask the seller if it is possible to stretch the bootleg of this model, and whether such a service is provided in this store.
The bootlegs stretch in the area of the locks, as they are the first to suffer if the shoe does not fit the foot.
One boot can be stretched only 2-3 centimeters, no more. First of all, it is almost impossible to stretch the product for a greater distance, and secondly, it is not recommended. Do not stretch the top of a leather boot for more than 3 centimeters, because the material may tear.
It is advisable to purchase those models in which there are insert cuts with an elastic band on the sides. It is much more comfortable to walk in such boots.

To stretch the boot on your own, you can use professional shoe care products such as Salamander, Twist, Salton and Kiwi. They are produced mainly in the form of a gel, foam or spray. All of these tools are able to solve the problem with the tight tops of the boots. The action of the funds is aimed at softening problem areas of leather and suede products. How to use them is indicated on the packaging. It is enough to follow the manufacturer's recommendations exactly.

Shoes made of artificial material are difficult and very risky to stretch. The structure of the fabric will be severely damaged, this can lead to premature wear and loss of the original shape of the boots. Before starting to wear out such models, you need to carefully weigh all the risks that may arise, and only then start work so as not to completely ruin your shoes.

When the bootleg of demi-season or winter shoes is not enough for you (unless the leg has recovered from the previous season), then the reason for this may be one thing: the shoes were stored under improper conditions.

In order to prevent this from happening, you need to follow this recommendation:

after the end of the season, it is necessary to put extremely clean and thoroughly dried shoes into the closet;
inside the products it is necessary to put a thick layer of paper or newspapers.

These tips will help you avoid the problem of deformation of the boots after the change of season.

How much we can stretch the tops of the boots, we have decided. Now the hostess can choose one of the proposed methods and get to work.

We offer several effective options:

Product name	Mode of application
	It is necessary to treat the inside of the boots with table vinegar. A store-bought product can be applied to the outside of the leather model.
	Boots made of genuine leather are doused with boiling water in the area of the bootleg and put on the legs. Very hot water can soften boots. After this procedure, the boot will acquire the required size.
Castor oil	Castor oil perfectly softens leather shoes, it also takes care of the condition of the boots. To enhance the effect, castor oil is poured into a suitable container, heated over a fire to a temperature of 50 ° C. Then the boots are rubbed with heated oil with a sponge, socks or knee-highs are put on the legs. Then you need to put on boots and walk in them for about three hours. If after that the boots could not be stretched to the desired size, then the procedure is repeated again until the result becomes positive.
	For models made of kid leather and patent leather, ironing is suitable as an extension of the bootleg. To do this, you need to take an iron, ironing board and a flannel napkin. The boots are unbuttoned, the boot is straightened and placed on the ironing board. The napkin is strongly moistened and through it the bootleg is stroked with steaming movements. After the material has steamed and becomes wet, it is necessary to stretch the fabric with gentle movements with your hands to the required size. Then the boots need to be stuffed tightly with newspaper or brown paper and zipped. In this form, the shoes should stand for at least three days.
Wet socks	For this method, socks are moistened in the place that needs to be stretched. Then they are put on their feet, and on top - boots. The shoes can be removed after 30 minutes. To achieve a 100% result, the procedure must be repeated.
Paper or newspapers	Shoes are stuffed fairly tightly with damp paper or newspaper and left to dry at room temperature. Putting boots on a radiator or heater is strictly prohibited. The material can be severely deformed and deteriorated.

As you can see, you don't need to be a first-class craftsman or wizard to stretch narrow tops of boots. An ordinary hostess can also cope with the problem that has arisen.

Leather models

I would also like to dwell on leather models. Leather boots are the most popular and versatile footwear in any season, be it autumn or winter. Moreover, in order to stretch the tops of leather boots, special skills and knowledge are not required. You can use proven methods that work quite well.

Let's consider some options.

Freezing. Quite a simple way to solve the problem of discomfort in the shaft area. At the stage of preparatory work, you need to prepare a large plastic bag, on which a plastic reusable zipper is provided. All the air is pumped out of it, keeping only a small space in one of the corners, and filled with water to the middle. Then the so-called plastic zipper is closed with a plastic fastener. If you need to stretch the bootleg, you must choose a bag with a capacity of three to four liters. Then the inventory filled with water must be inserted into the boot shaft. To enhance the effect, the bottom of the shoe can be stuffed tightly with paper or newspaper, and a prepared bag can be inserted on top. The water must be distributed in equal parts over the entire area of the boots. Then the product is placed in the freezer for a while. It is very important to make sure that water does not leak out of the bag, as the skin can crack during freezing. If there are no special bags with fasteners, freezers with helium filling will do. You cannot immediately take out the bags from the boots, let them stay inside for some time so that the frozen water does not spoil the structure of the skin. Once the ice has melted slightly, the bags can be removed.
Glass container and sticks. For this method, you will need to find such a vessel that will match the width of the boot tops. The container is placed inside the boot, filled with hot water, then the shoes are zipped. Sticks are inserted along the outer circumference of the vessel with water (as much as possible). In this position, the shoes must be kept for several days. You can use pencils instead of sticks.
Alcohol. For this method, you will need a drug at a concentration of 70%. Alcohol must be poured into a bottle with a spray bottle and sprayed evenly on the bootleg area. After that, you need to put boots on your feet and stay in them for several minutes so that the alcohol is completely absorbed into the product.

To dry your shoes, do not speed up the process and place them near a heating radiator. If the result is unsatisfactory, the procedure is repeated several times.

Natural suede

It is quite possible to stretch the tops of boots made of natural suede fabric. Suede does not stretch as much as leather, but the boot can still be extended for a short distance.

This will require the following tools at hand.

Industrial special products. Store-served stretchers are applied to the inside of suede shoes. Then you should put on leggings or socks on your feet, over them - boots. In this form, you need to walk until the product is completely absorbed and dried.
Weak vinegar solution. Apply 3% vinegar solution to the outer surface of the boots in the area of the ankle joint. The inside of the product should be treated with a special store-bought product for stretching shoes. Then the boots are put on their feet and walk in them until the components are completely dry.
Steam steaming. For this method, the boots must be doused with steam from the iron, covering the shoes on top with a dense cloth. After this procedure, the suede will become more elastic and will be able to stretch a little. To enhance the effect after steaming, you can put on socks along with boots and walk in them for a while.

Do not forget that suede shoes are almost always stretched not from the outside, but from the inside. Otherwise, stains, traces from special compounds and cracks will appear on the suede surface. The procedure can be carried out as many times until the result is achieved.

In order for boots to serve faithfully for more than one season, you need to know a few tips for caring for shoes from specialists.

They are as follows:

after the goal is achieved and the problem of narrow boots is resolved, the shoes must be filled with paper and allowed to dry properly;
it is unacceptable to dry boots near heating devices;
if a new pair of shoes rubs heavily on the heel or toe, you can use any of the above methods to eliminate discomfort;
after the process of stretching boots under the influence of a high temperature regime, it is necessary to treat the skin from the outside with a solution of glycerin or shoe polish;
you should not invest newspapers in light-colored boots, since under the influence of special means or folk methods, prints may remain on shoes from printing ink;
winter or autumn boots soaked in the rain should be dried at room temperature by placing a thick layer of paper or newspapers inside;
you can purchase a special shoe dryer;
if the weather outside the window is damp, then before going outside it is better to treat leather or suede boots with a special agent that can repel water;
boots made of genuine leather should be regularly rubbed with leather care cream;
store shoes in a closet or other place unfolded and with tightly packed paper inside.

These are all the tricks and secrets of caring for boots. Summing up, we can say with confidence that everyone is quite capable of stretching the tops of boots at home, if you just want to and work a little. By following exactly all the recommendations, you can easily achieve the desired result.

Often, after the purchase, the shoes begin to rub heavily. This material is rubbing against the skin or the size is really the wrong one. It remains to either take the shoes back to the store, or try to stretch them. The work process depends on the type of material. Leather will stretch slightly differently than leather substitute or combination. Craftsmen have come up with many ways to warm up shoes

How to stretch leather boots with hot water

In order to stretch leather boots, you should unlace them or open the zipper to the end. The principle of operation is as follows: water is heated to a hot state and poured onto the sock. Next, the shoes are pulled on a long stick, you can take the leg of a wooden mop. A shoe sock is gradually put on this stick. Movements should not be strong so that the material is not injured. This option is only suitable for real leather boots with a stitched sole, which will probably not melt from hot water. You also need to take into account that the process at high temperatures is not suitable for boots with soles glued to hot melt glue. This type of attachment does not allow the use of shoes near bonfires, hot springs, etc.

How to stretch leather boots with thick socks

To do this, you need a pair of warm socks, better knitted, they are bulkier and softer for the legs. Multiple socks can be used if comfortable. Tight shoes are worn all day around the house, work or the street. Stretch out an hour and rest for 15 minutes. At night, a tightly crumpled damp newspaper and paper are placed in the shoes that are being worn so that the boots do not lose their acquired shape. The wear duration is determined by the wearing comfort.

How to stretch boots with castor oil

This stretch option is only suitable for leather, in the absence of insulation from the inside of the boots. Castor oil is applied to the inside and outside of the shoe. The process of breaking is the same as when using warm socks: wear during the day, and stuff with damp paper for the evening. Darkening of the material is possible after oil.

How to stretch patent leather boots

Patent leather shoes are difficult to stretch. Such material is very easy to deteriorate from home experiments. So in this case, it is better to use sprays and foams that are purchased in shoe stores.
If possible, you can try using petroleum jelly. It acts gently on the inner surface of the boot and does not injure the shoes, such as boiling water, which is used for natural leather. After applying Vaseline, the boots are worn out until the end of the day on a warm sock. Patent shoes stretch more easily than leather, you need to be careful with the stretch so as not to oversize.

How to stretch summer boots

Shoes, which are made of thin leather or leather substitute, are stretched with a hair dryer. To do this, the boots are put on thick socks and a stream of hot air is supplied to the places that need to be carried. Heating should be regulated. If your feet get hot, the blow dryer ends. The process then continues until the posting is complete.

How to stretch boots with rubbing alcohol

The pharmacy purchases 70% alcohol. Higher percentages of alcohol can damage the surface. Since alcohol wears out quickly, the action should be quite active. Part of the alcohol should be poured into a spray bottle and sprayed over the boots. After applying alcohol to problem areas, you need to put them on immediately. At night, paper is placed in the shoes, and the next day it is worn out again with the use of alcohol.

How to stretch boots with groats

A trash bag without holes is placed in the shoes and rice groats are poured. Rice is poured overnight with plain water. The principle of operation is as follows: the croup swells with moisture and stretches the boots, especially the thinner part of the lower leg. Action time 10 hours.

The simplest option for stretching boots is a shoe atelier, where specialists professionally deal with shoe problems. But it is not at all necessary to resort to outside help, because at home it is very easy to stretch boots with your own hands. It is not recommended to walk in unworn boots, such a sock can lead to painful calluses. If one method is not suitable for boots, then you can try another until you succeed. Different types of material wear out differently.

The freezing method allows you to effectively expand leather shoes. This is one of the easiest ways to stretch the boot shaft at home.

Beforehand, the shoes must be prepared for the procedure. To do this, take a large bag with a plastic fastener and fill it halfway with water. Squeeze all the air out of the bag, leaving a small gap in the corner. Connect both plastic sides to close the bag.

The size of the bag should be selected based on the size of the shoe and the part to be stretched. If only the heel or toe needs to be expanded, a liter pack is sufficient for the procedure. For stretching the tops of high boots, a 3-4 liter bag is suitable.

Place the filled bag in the boot in the place that needs to be enlarged. For example, to stretch the bootleg, you can fill the entire lower part with unnecessary paper, and put the prepared inventory on it. It is necessary to distribute the water evenly over the entire stretch area and place the boots in the freezer.

When the water is completely frozen, remove the shoes from the chamber and leave to thaw the ice.

This method will help both to stretch the bootleg at home and to stretch the foot. We'll need a tight plastic bag, a freezer bag is best, as it is less likely to break through. Remember, frozen water can be detrimental to shoe materials.

So, let's get started, we select the package according to the need. For example, if you need to stretch the sock or foot, a liter package will be enough, for the boot you need more, about 3-4 liters.

Pour about a third or half of water into the bag, fasten it in such a way as to squeeze out almost all the air from it.
Freezer gel bags can be a great tool at hand; they are easier to work with.
We place the prepared bag in a problem area, if the bootlegs are pressed, then crumpled newspapers crumpled into spools will help to fix the bag in the right place.
Make sure the bag is evenly positioned to avoid deforming the shoes.
We place it in the freezer for about 8-10 hours, the freezing water will expand and gradually stretch the boot.
At the end, you need to wait until the ice thaws, you should not rush so as not to damage the boots.

This way you can stretch leather, suede or artificial leather boots.

When to take a chance

When asked whether it is possible to stretch the tops of the boots, we will immediately answer: yes! However, you should not count on the fact that a real bell can be made from a pencil shaft. The material used to make shoes is not highly elastic. The desire to stretch more will only lead to the divergence of the seam. When assessing the chances of success, you need to be guided by two considerations.

If the zipper on the boot has come together, albeit with difficulty and on the pulled leg, you can easily take the pair you like: it will stretch to the desired fullness. A little more doubt if the lightning has not reached the top by a centimeter and a half. But if it is only half-buttoned, put it aside. Your experiments will fail.
Give up immediately the thought of leatherette shoes, since it is unrealistic to stretch the bootleg at home from it. Rather, the material will crack or deform, than will agree to change a little.

And get ready for rather lengthy shoemaking procedures: the process will not be quick.

How to stretch boots at home: suede, leather, rubber

There is an equally effective way to stretch your boots at home. Before the procedure, you must put on 3 pairs of thin socks on your feet and pull on your shoes. If you find it difficult to get your feet in, you can remove one pair of socks.

When the shoes are on their feet, you need to warm up the part that is pressing with a hairdryer. The warm-up time for the leather boot should be at least 30 seconds. It is recommended to select the maximum power on the hairdryer. Warmed skin must be stretched, fixing a comfortable position with your feet. Do not take off your shoes until the leather has completely cooled down, otherwise it will return to its previous shape. Then take off any extra socks and try on the boots.

This method can be used to stretch all parts of the shoe. It is also suitable for widening the shaft of high boots.

70% alcohol is often used to expand leather shoes. In such a concentration, alcohol does not harm even suede products.

How can you stretch the tops of your boots at home using rubbing alcohol? It is necessary to spray with a spray bottle on the area of the shoe that needs to be stretched. Alcohol should be applied evenly over the entire area to be treated. Then put the shoes on your feet and wait 30 seconds. During this time, the alcohol is absorbed into the skin.

In order for the shoes to stretch properly, it is recommended to remain in them for a while after the alcohol has dried. Many people think that this is the cheapest and easiest method to quickly stretch the tops of boots at home. In most cases, the desired result is achieved the first time.

Treat leather boots with boiling water. The high temperature makes the skin softer and easier to stretch. Put on your shoes and walk around the apartment in them.

If suede is pressed, wet them with vodka inside and out, put on and walk for several hours. Wait until the inside is dry before removing. This procedure can be repeated several times.

There is another effective way to stretch suede garments. Pour vegetable oil into a saucepan and let it boil. Very carefully so as not to burn yourself, moisten a sponge in it, wipe the material until a glossy shine appears. Put on and do not take off for two hours. Lubricate the tight spots every 30 minutes. After that, thoroughly wash the oil off the surface, leave to dry.

Video to help the fashionista

Today, when buying shoes at the salon, you may be asked to stretch them a little, if necessary. Specialists use a special apparatus for these procedures, which can cope with the task in a few minutes. But is it possible to achieve a positive effect at home? Of course you can.

The easiest thing to do is to buy a special spray from the store that helps to stretch the product.
Boots are put on the leg, after putting on socks, the surface is treated with a product, and they walk for a short time.
Some sprays are used to treat the inner surface of the shoe. But you can do without expensive funds, and use, as they say, "grandmother's methods." Alcohol-containing products help well in this matter, they include alcohol, vodka, cologne, etc. After wetting the surface of your shoes, put on socks, boots and walk for 5-10 minutes, this is enough for a slight stretch.
You can stretch the boots using the cold for this purpose. A very interesting way. Take a plastic bag, fill it with water and put it in your shoes. Next, put the steam in the freezer. When freezing, water increases in volume, that is, it expands, therefore, it will stretch your favorite boots.
Some people use beer to stretch suede products, which is moistened with their inner part, shoe on pre-dressed socks and walk for a while.

Currently, special devices have appeared in stores that help to increase the volume of shoes without causing unnecessary problems for you. The result exceeds all expectations.

Comfortable and properly sized shoes - not only a comfortable attitude, but also the health of the legs, spine, and beautiful posture. If you really like the boots (and they really are, since they are purchased), there is an opportunity to solve the problem. To do this, you need to know some tricks for handling both leather and other materials.

It is in vain to give advice when there is already a couple that requires immediate action, but when buying any shoe, you should first of all be guided not by considerations of fashion or special beauty, but by the assessment of your own legs and the suitability of these products for it. The structure of the limbs of each person has individual characteristics, and boots with a wide bootleg are hardly appropriate for thin calves, while a tight product stretched to a full leg disrupts blood circulation and contributes to damage to accessories.

Often there is a need to stretch exactly the bootleg, because when buying shoes, a woman does not pay attention to whether it is fully fastened on the leg. Or draws, but thinks that the skin will stretch to the desired volume when worn. Having decided on where exactly the boots are squeezing, it is best to take them to the workshop, but you can stretch the tops on your own, at home.

There are some pretty simple ways. For example, you can:

Pull on several pairs of socks, then put on shoes that require an increase and walk around the room in them for a while. Having identified problem areas, warm them up with a hair dryer for at least 30 seconds each, then thoroughly stretch your legs in boots and repeat the procedure for a room walk again. Walking continues until the shoes cool completely, after which the procedure can be repeated after a while. If these are winter boots with thick natural fur inside, then one may be enough, because the pile is crumpled in the sock in the shape of the leg, which can give the millimeters necessary for comfort.
Apply a special stretching spray. There are such products for different types of skin. Apply the substance in the form of foam to problem areas of the boots, then stuff them from the inside with newsprint crumpled into dense lumps, leaving them at room temperature overnight. The spray is prepared with ingredients that are absorbed into the skin overnight without a trace, and, if necessary, repeating the procedure again, the boots can be worn.
Correct the situation when the boots are not just tight, but small in size. The same plastic bags, into which an equal amount of water is poured, are placed inside the shoes, which are then placed in the freezer or on the balcony if it is cold outside. Before the procedure, it is necessary to lubricate the boots with a thick layer of boot cream or glycerin. This method is good for fur shoes, but it can also be used for non-insulated shoes. The main secret is to let the ice thaw, not pull it out immediately with the bag. This can rip the seams off the shoe.
Use alcohol solution. Any alcohol-containing liquid (vodka, cologne, alcohol lotion) is applied from the inside of the product, after which the boots are put on toes. Alcohol, by softening the skin, makes it take the shape of the leg. This method is especially good when you need to spread the bootlegs.
Wrap the shoes in a cotton cloth soaked in hot water for half an hour, then smear it liberally with castor oil, stuff it with newspapers and leave it that way for a day. This method is great for stretching the leather even in cases where the shoes have shrunk due to improper preparation for storage in the summer.
Purchase a special stretching apparatus. They are made of wood, of a rather simple design, which allows you to increase the size of the boot on a special wedge using a rotary handle. The device can be left in the product for a while, gradually increasing the wedge in diameter.

Everyone has come across a situation when the pair of boots they liked so much was the last in the store. And the desire to buy it is much stronger than doubts about the not quite suitable size. Like, they spread.

However, upon coming home, we are increasingly worried about the idea of how to stretch the boots so as not to suffer in the first days, and maybe weeks of wearing them.

There are several methods available to accomplish this task.

So, here are some of the most famous and time-tested ways to stretch boots at home.

Freezing

This method involves freezing the shoes. However, you must first carry out some preparatory activities. Take a resealable plastic bag and fill it with water. In this case, it is necessary to fill no more than half, and you can even one third.

All possible air should be squeezed out of the bag. To do this, you need to close most of the package. This leaves only a modest gap in the corner section. The part without water should be squeezed until the plastic sides come together completely. After connecting both sides, you can close the rest of the bag.

For the procedure, it is better to choose special bags designed for freezing. Otherwise, they can be damaged in the freezer compartment of the refrigerator.

Instead of water bags, gel freezer bags can be selected if available.

Remember not to leave ice or water on your skin. The skin can become very fragile.

After filling, the bag should be placed in the boot in the right place. If you only need to stretch the bootleg, you can fill the bottom of the boot with newspaper to keep the bag from sliding down. It is necessary to monitor the uniformity of water distribution over the stretched area.

After being pulled out of the freezer, the water should thaw. Otherwise, the product may be damaged. If, after trying on, it is found that the shoes are still tight, then the procedure must be repeated.

Warming up

Freezing

Method number 5. Iron

This is the simplest method for stretching the boot shaft at home. However, it is only applicable to a limited range of shoes. The skin on the boots should not be thin - this time. The material doesn't have to be varnished - that's two. The way is not good for like - that's three. If all conditions are met, we act according to this algorithm.

The boot is unbuttoned and placed on the ironing board as flat as possible.
Flannel is well moistened and squeezed out so that water does not drip, but the rag was exactly wet, not damp.
The iron is heated to a medium temperature, and the boots are steamed with it through the fabric.
When the skin becomes soft and damp, the boot is pulled to the sides in the right place. The desired dimensions are measured in advance. You can even just make marks on the board to which you need to reach the boot.

No jerking, just uniformity and perseverance! If the bootleg begins to dry out and tan ahead of time, the steaming is repeated. When the goal is achieved, the zipper closes, the paper is packed tightly inside (to prevent shrinkage), and the shoes are left out of the batteries until they dry completely.

Stretching technology is designed for medium to thick skin. Do not treat lacquered shoes, products made of Lycra or too thin leather in this way. For the procedure, you will need a cotton or gauze cloth and an iron. If possible, involve an assistant in the stretching, since the procedure is best done together.

Set up your ironing board, unbutton your boot and place it zip up. Heat the iron, soak a cloth in filtered (!) Water and place in the inside of the boots on the shin area. Do not spare the steam, start ironing the product, make sure that liquid does not drain from the iron. It is important to remember forever: only drinking water must be poured into the iron. It does not contain impurities and heavy metals, therefore it will not leave streaks.

When you have moistened the leather of your boots enough, set the iron aside, then begin to stretch the boot shaft in different directions. Try to perform the procedure without jerking, smoothly and evenly. In order not to overdo it with stretching, after steaming, measure the shin index, then pull the skin to the required mark.

At the end of processing, button the boot, stuff it with a cloth or paper, and leave to dry at room temperature. The newspaper must be tamped tightly, otherwise the skin will shrink. Optionally, you can replace the paper with a wooden block of the required size. The drying time after such a procedure is approximately 2-3 days.

Expansion of shoes with special devices

For those who are interested in how to stretch the boot shaft at home with minimal damage to the shoe, there is a special device. Different types of stretch marks are used for the soles and tops. Such devices are a wedge with a turning handle. The device is inserted into the boot and opened for a few minutes to stretch the skin to the desired width.

Stretching devices are commonly used in shoe shops. But they can also be used at home. Special skills and knowledge are not required to use a wedge. The main thing is to fix the boot correctly.

With a professional wedge, you can stretch shoes made of leather, suede and even rubber.

Freeze shoes

For more delicate materials, another method has been devised for how to stretch winter boots in the bootleg. It will not work for leatherette and rubber. The bottom of the boot, which will not stretch, is stuffed with newspapers so that it does not deform. A bag of dense polyethylene is placed in the top, into which water is poured.

Its volume should correspond to the current thickness of the bootleg. Air is released from the bag, but it is tied so that there is free space inside. The boot hides in the freezer for the night. The water will expand and stretch the boot. If it turns out that the volume is still insufficient, the process is repeated.

Stretching chemicals

If it is not possible to use home remedies, you need to stretch the shoes in length or if they are small in the foot, you can contact a shoe shop. The specialist will use wooden blocks to stretch the shoes in length and width.

This method will help you stretch your boots the first time.

To expand individual parts of leather shoes, special products are produced in the form of sprays. Before use, you should read the instructions from the manufacturer. It describes in detail how you can stretch the tops of your boots. The manufacturer also indicates a list of materials that can be processed with a specific tool. Most of these sprays cannot be used on suede shoes.

It is also important to pay attention to the composition of the sprays. Some manufacturers add alcohol to the product.

Before use, it is recommended to apply a small amount of spray to the inner part of the lower leg or other inconspicuous place and observe the reaction. If the skin has not changed color and appearance, the product is suitable for use.

The distance for applying the stretching spray is up to 15 cm. Immediately after spraying the product, you need to put on boots and walk in them for a while.

Therefore, boots should be comfortable: first of all, they should be comfortable, and secondly, beautiful. But often women, when choosing a new thing, do the opposite. This leads to the fact that after a while the boots in the boot begin to squeeze the legs strongly, it is uncomfortable to walk in them.

To resolve the situation, women are looking for any way to stretch the tops of narrow boots.

Nobody can say exactly when women's boots first appeared. Scientists suggest that the ancient Greek summer sandal boots with high lacing served as the prototype for this type of footwear. At that time in ancient Greece, they were worn by men and women.

It was in Greece that the over-the-knee boots and summer models with open toes were later invented. They were worn only for special occasions: at dinner parties or for going out.

It was only in the middle of the twentieth century that the first women's boots with zippers began to be sewn, which were decorated with all kinds of ribbons, applique and embroidery.

To choose a suitable demi-season and winter footwear, taking into account the individual characteristics of the foot, it is necessary not only to select boots according to the size of the foot, but also to take into account the fixation of the zipper in the ankle zone. This is a very important point, as the boot leg should not feel discomfort when walking.

Stretching narrow boots in the boot at home

To independently stretch a model of boots that is narrow in the boot at home, you need to act in this way.

Make sure the boots are made from genuine leather and suede.
Even at the stage of buying shoes, you need to ask the seller if it is possible to stretch the bootleg of this model, and whether such a service is provided in this store.
The bootlegs stretch in the area of the locks, as they are the first to suffer if the shoe does not fit the foot.
One boot can be stretched only 2-3 centimeters, no more. First of all, it is almost impossible to stretch the product for a greater distance, and secondly, it is not recommended. Do not stretch the top of a leather boot for more than 3 centimeters, because the material may tear.
It is advisable to purchase those models in which there are insert cuts with an elastic band on the sides. It is much more comfortable to walk in such boots.

To stretch the boot on your own, you can use professional shoe care products such as Salamander, Twist, Salton and Kiwi. They are produced mainly in the form of a gel, foam or spray.

All of these tools are able to solve the problem with the tight tops of the boots. The action of the funds is aimed at softening problem areas of leather and suede products. How to use them is indicated on the packaging.

Shoes made of artificial material are difficult and very risky to stretch.

Before starting to wear out such models, you need to carefully weigh all the risks that may arise, and only then start work so as not to completely ruin your shoes.

In order to prevent this from happening, you need to follow this recommendation:

after the end of the season, it is necessary to put extremely clean and thoroughly dried shoes into the closet;
inside the products it is necessary to put a thick layer of paper or newspapers.

These tips will help you avoid the problem of deformation of the boots after the change of season.

How much we can stretch the tops of the boots, we have decided. Now the hostess can choose one of the proposed methods and get to work.

Product name	Mode of application
Vinegar	It is necessary to treat the inside of the boots with table vinegar. A store-bought product can be applied to the outside of the leather model.
Boiling water	Boots made of genuine leather are doused with boiling water in the area of the bootleg and put on the legs. Very hot water can soften boots. After this procedure, the boot will acquire the required size.
Castor oil	Castor oil perfectly softens leather shoes, it also takes care of the condition of the boots. To enhance the effect, castor oil is poured into a suitable container, heated over a fire to a temperature of 50 ° C. Then the boots are rubbed with heated oil with a sponge, socks or knee-highs are put on the legs. Then you need to put on boots and walk in them for about three hours. If after that the boots could not be stretched to the desired size, then the procedure is repeated again until the result becomes positive.
Iron	For models made of kid leather and patent leather, ironing is suitable as an extension of the bootleg. To do this, you need to take an iron, ironing board and a flannel napkin. The boots are unbuttoned, the boot is straightened and placed on the ironing board. The napkin is strongly moistened and through it the bootleg is stroked with steaming movements. After the material has steamed and becomes wet, it is necessary to stretch the fabric with gentle movements with your hands to the required size. Then the boots need to be stuffed tightly with newspaper or brown paper and zipped. In this form, the shoes should stand for at least three days.
Wet socks	For this method, socks are moistened in the place that needs to be stretched. Then they are put on their feet, and on top - boots. The shoes can be removed after 30 minutes. To achieve a 100% result, the procedure must be repeated.
Paper or newspapers	Shoes are stuffed fairly tightly with damp paper or newspaper and left to dry at room temperature. Putting boots on a radiator or heater is strictly prohibited. The material can be severely deformed and deteriorated.

As you can see, you don't need to be a first-class craftsman or wizard to stretch narrow tops of boots. An ordinary hostess can also cope with the problem that has arisen.

Leather models

I would also like to dwell on leather models. Leather boots are the most popular and versatile footwear in any season, be it autumn or winter. Moreover, in order to stretch the tops of leather boots, special skills and knowledge are not required. You can use proven methods that work quite well.

Let's consider some options.

Freezing. Quite a simple way to solve the problem of discomfort in the shaft area. At the stage of preparatory work, you need to prepare a large plastic bag, on which a plastic reusable zipper is provided. All the air is pumped out of it, keeping only a small space in one of the corners, and filled with water to the middle. Then the so-called plastic zipper is closed with a plastic fastener. If you need to stretch the bootleg, you must choose a bag with a capacity of three to four liters. Then the inventory filled with water must be inserted into the boot shaft. To enhance the effect, the bottom of the shoe can be stuffed tightly with paper or newspaper, and a prepared bag can be inserted on top. The water must be distributed in equal parts over the entire area of the boots. Then the product is placed in the freezer for a while. It is very important to make sure that water does not leak out of the bag, as the skin can crack during freezing. If there are no special bags with fasteners, freezers with helium filling will do. You cannot immediately take out the bags from the boots, let them stay inside for some time so that the frozen water does not spoil the structure of the skin. Once the ice has melted slightly, the bags can be removed.
Glass container and sticks. For this method, you will need to find such a vessel that will match the width of the boot tops. The container is placed inside the boot, filled with hot water, then the shoes are zipped. Sticks are inserted along the outer circumference of the vessel with water (as much as possible). In this position, the shoes must be kept for several days. You can use pencils instead of sticks.
Alcohol. For this method, you will need a drug at a concentration of 70%. Alcohol must be poured into a bottle with a spray bottle and sprayed evenly on the bootleg area. After that, you need to put boots on your feet and stay in them for several minutes so that the alcohol is completely absorbed into the product.

Gentle heating

The exact opposite option for how to stretch the bootleg at home: now we will use the increased temperature. The method can be called a relaxed version of the very first. Suitable for all natural materials, but heavier for the mistress of the boots. Stubborn shoes with difficulty and with a creak pull on their feet.

Moreover, you need to put on thick socks under it, which will restrain shrinkage a little later. In places where the bootleg does not fit well, it is diligently, for at least half an hour, warmed up with a hair dryer turned on to the maximum. After that, the owner of the shoe should walk in it until the boots are cold. At the same time, it is advisable to actively move, this will help the boot to take the shape as close as possible to your leg. If your leather or suede boots were not fastened to the top the first time, after cooling the zipper is brought to the stop, and the manipulations are repeated.

Applying primitive chemistry

The following technique can also help in the case of stretching artificial leather shoes. You will need vodka (pure, without any additives like birch buds or quail eggs) or medical alcohol. The latter will need to be diluted to 70% strength. In a more concentrated form, alcohol can damage natural materials.

Some craftsmen use vinegar essence. However, in addition to a strong and persistent odor, it can discolor the surface. Suede is especially vulnerable in this respect - even its structure can be broken. The desired areas are generously sprayed or generously coated with a solution. It is advisable that it does not fall on non-stretchable areas.

Alcohol evaporates very quickly, so it is best to carry out the procedure on boots already on, with the participation of a sympathetic family member. And, again, thick socks should be worn under them. To consolidate the effect, you need to walk in shoes for half an hour (more is better, but not necessary, since the alcohol will have time to evaporate during this time). If necessary, you can repeat the process the next day.

Castor oil use

This remedy is often used to soften rough skin. Therefore, many masters, when asked how to stretch the bootleg at home, advise this remedy. Castor oil perfectly stretches the skin with minimal harm to the product.

To enlarge the bootleg, you need to pour castor oil into a glass or ceramic container and heat it to 50 degrees. Wipe the previously washed and dried boots with a sponge dipped in oil. Then you need to put on tight socks or knee-highs on your feet and put on shoes on them. It is recommended to walk in boots for about 3 hours.

Many people use castor oil to soften rough skin, but not everyone knows that a similar product can be used as a stretcher.

You can increase the bootleg as follows: pour castor oil into a ceramic or glass bowl, heat it in the microwave to a temperature of 45-50 degrees. Wash and dry your shoes, soak a foam sponge in oil, and scrub the outside and inside of the boots.

Put on knitted knee socks, leggings or tight high socks, button up your boots, and walk in them for about 3 hours. After the expiration of the period, without taking off your shoes, again walk over the surface with a sponge soaked in oil. The holding time depends on how much you need to stretch the bootleg.

After all the manipulations, take off your shoes, stuff the boots with a cloth or newspaper, leave to dry completely. After the expiration date, wipe the outside with a flannel cloth, stretch again if necessary.

Important points

You can expand the shoes yourself if you know the features of stretching procedures.

Only natural suede and leather shoes can be stretched.
When buying shoes, you should inquire whether the store provides a boot stretch service. It happens that it can be free.
It is almost impossible to stretch the shoe while wearing it.
Be sure to expand the tops of the boots with zips. In narrow shoes, locks break quickly, which give in to mechanical damage each time they are put on.
It is not necessary to use a workshop to stretch your shoes. There are many effective and safe ways to enlarge the tops of your boots at home.
One pair can be expanded by 2-3 cm. It is undesirable to stretch the skin more, as it can tear.
When buying boots, you should pay attention to the presence of cuts with an inserted elastic band. They add comfort and stretch to the cuff.

If nothing works

It's one thing if you just buy boots - you can refuse to purchase them even before going to the checkout, if it didn't work to fasten. However, what if your calves recovered (for example, due to pregnancy), and your boots are new, expensive and loved? If none of the following recipes for how to stretch the bootleg at home worked, go to a shoemaker.

How and how can you stretch the tops of boots (made of genuine leather and suede) at home? - folk and professional ways; care tips

Before you start stretching a new pair of shoes, there are some rules to keep in mind:

1. Improper stretching can damage the boots.
2. You should try to spread them first.
3. It is necessary to buy boots in the evening. During this time, the legs usually swell a little, and it will be easier to choose a pair that suits the size.
4. Don't make a purchase without trying it on. Manufacturers' sizes may vary.
5. After all the stretching manipulations in the store, you will not be able to hand over your shoes.
6. After stretching the boots should be treated with oil or greasy shoe polish.
7. It is necessary to buy shoes made of quality materials in trusted stores.

When freezing boots, it is important that water does not come into contact with the skin, otherwise it may crack.
Gel-filled freezer bags can be used instead of water bags.
When stretching by freezing, do not immediately pull out ice packs from boots. Frozen water expands and can damage the product.
If after the first time the boots are not stretched, you should repeat the method used.
When stretching shoes under high temperature, wipe the leather with glycerin or cream. This will restore the required moisture level.

Leather models

Natural suede

It is quite possible to stretch the tops of boots made of natural suede fabric. Suede does not stretch as much as leather, but the boot can still be extended for a short distance.

This will require the following tools at hand.

Industrial special products. Store-served stretchers are applied to the inside of suede shoes. Then you should put on leggings or socks on your feet, over them - boots. In this form, you need to walk until the product is completely absorbed and dried.
Weak vinegar solution. Apply 3% vinegar solution to the outer surface of the boots in the area of the ankle joint. The inside of the product should be treated with a special store-bought product for stretching shoes. Then the boots are put on their feet and walk in them until the components are completely dry.
Steam steaming. For this method, the boots must be doused with steam from the iron, covering the shoes on top with a dense cloth. After this procedure, the suede will become more elastic and will be able to stretch a little. To enhance the effect after steaming, you can put on socks along with boots and walk in them for a while.

Do not forget that suede shoes are almost always stretched not from the outside, but from the inside. Otherwise, stains, traces from special compounds and cracks will appear on the suede surface. The procedure can be carried out as many times until the result is achieved.

In order for boots to serve faithfully for more than one season, you need to know a few tips for caring for shoes from specialists.

They are as follows:

after the goal is achieved and the problem of narrow boots is resolved, the shoes must be filled with paper and allowed to dry properly;
it is unacceptable to dry boots near heating devices;
if a new pair of shoes rubs heavily on the heel or toe, you can use any of the above methods to eliminate discomfort;
after the process of stretching boots under the influence of a high temperature regime, it is necessary to treat the skin from the outside with a solution of glycerin or shoe polish;
you should not invest newspapers in light-colored boots, since under the influence of special means or folk methods, prints may remain on shoes from printing ink;
winter or autumn boots soaked in the rain should be dried at room temperature by placing a thick layer of paper or newspapers inside;
you can purchase a special shoe dryer;
if the weather outside the window is damp, then before going outside it is better to treat leather or suede boots with a special agent that can repel water;
boots made of genuine leather should be regularly rubbed with leather care cream;
store shoes in a closet or other place unfolded and with tightly packed paper inside.

These are all the tricks and secrets of caring for boots. Summing up, we can say with confidence that everyone is quite capable of stretching the tops of boots at home, if you just want to and work a little. By following exactly all the recommendations, you can easily achieve the desired result.

Whatever the good method, always be careful, it can always hurt if you have old shoes, experiment on them first.

Do not strive to achieve results the first time, you may have to repeat the procedure, it will be better than ruining your favorite boots with excessive efforts.

The above tips can be combined, but always think about the material itself so that the two methods are compatible.

And the last thing - if the efforts have reached a dead end, you can always turn to a professional, in a shoe shop.

Did you like the boots, but are they too narrow in the boot? Are you missing a couple of centimeters for a perfect fit and won't zip?

It is possible to solve this problem. You can use the services of a shoe workshop, where the master will stretch the boot to the required volume.

But you can stretch the boot on your own.... There are many ways you can make your boots look perfect at home. The most common ones are:

1. Manufacturers of cosmetics for shoe care Twist, Salton, Salamander, Kiwi and others offer to solve our "close" problem using special means for stretching. They are aimed at softening the skin in the pressing places.

Apply the foam to the outside of the boot shaft. After that, putting on a thick terry sock on your leg, put on your shoes and wear until completely dry. Repeat the procedure for several days in a row until the result is achieved. If you want to stretch shoes with a lacquered or suede surface, then the product must be applied internally.

2. You can use diluted 3% vinegar- lubricate the inside of the boots with it, and on the outside apply the same special purchased product that we wrote about in paragraph 1. But this option is not suitable for winter shoes with fur lining.

3. Leather shoes can be stretched by warming them up: Pour boiling water over the top of the boot and put it on the leg. The high temperature will soften the boots, and they will take the desired shape.

4. Castor oil not only cares for leather goods, but also softens them. The application algorithm is the same as for the product purchased in the store.

5.If your boots aren't made of very thin leather, varnish or huskies, try stretching them with an iron and flannel napkin. Unbutton your boots, straighten the bootleg and place on the ironing board. Steam generously through a wet cloth. When the skin is steamed and moisturized, gently, without jerking, stretch the skin to the sides to the desired size. Then stuff tightly with paper and zip up *. After this procedure, let them stand for 2-3 days.

6. Put on high socks soaked in the right place on your feet, and then boots... Walk for about half an hour and take off. Repeat the procedure several times if necessary.

7. Stuff the boots tightly with damp, pre-moistened paper * and leave them in the room to dry completely... Do not put shoes on the battery - the skin is deformed, bumps appear.

8. The soccer ball tube and pump can help you stretch tight shoes. Moisten the boot with water, place the camera inside the boot and pump it up. This method does not claim to be the most effective and fastest - rather, an alternative to the usual wearing of a wet boot on the leg.

It should be remembered that not all shoes can be “painlessly” stretched. First of all, it depends on the material, elasticity, the presence of jewelry and seams, and other details. It is very difficult and dangerous to stretch shoes made of artificial materials - the fibers are severely damaged, which leads to rapid wear and deformation. Approach this issue carefully and deliberately.
Are the tops of seasonal shoes dry again?

Improper storage of shoes can again come back to haunt with tight tops in a year. To prevent, adhere to the following recommendations:

- put dry, clean shoes in the closet;
- stuff the socks and bootlegs tightly with paper.

These simple tips will help you forget about the discomfort in your favorite boots once and for all.
Let your shoes bring you only pleasant sensations!

* For light-colored boots, use plain paper - printing ink can transfer to the skin.

You can stretch your boots to the desired size at home, since there are a lot of methods. At the same time, in order not to be mistaken when choosing the most effective method, it is worth starting from the material of the shoe. If simple methods do not help, you can resort to alternative solutions.

How to stretch leather boots?

There are several proven ways to stretch genuine leather boots:

How to stretch suede boots?

Suede shoes are pretty capricious. When stretching suede boots, you need to be extremely careful. There are several ways to stretch delicate suede shoes:

Foam ... In a shoe store, you need to purchase a special foam to stretch suede. Following the directions on the label, you must treat the boots with the agent both outside and inside. Put them on and walk for about half an hour.

You cannot put on a boot treated with foam on your bare foot!

Use wet socks ... Hot water and regular socks can also work wonders. Moisten socks made of natural fibers with hot water, put them on. Then put on your boots and walk around the apartment for a while.
Treat with vegetable oil ... It is necessary to warm up the oil in a water bath and apply it to the outer surface of the boots worn on the feet. It is recommended to walk in oiled boots for several hours, renewing the oil every 30 minutes.
Treat with alcohol ... Combine alcohol with water in a 1: 1 ratio, apply liberally to the inner and outer surfaces of the boots. Put on socks and boots, walk like that for several hours.

You can use vodka instead of alcohol!

Also, suede boots can be stretched with damp newspapers, as is the case with leather boots.

How to stretch rubber boots?

Recently, rubber boots "from the grandmother's chest" are returning to fashion. If the size of rubber boots does not suit you, then you can stretch them only in one case - if they are made of polyvinyl chloride. You can find out what exactly your boots are made of by touching, for example, a hot needle to the boot. If the material melts, then it is prone to stretching.

You can stretch rubber boots in the following way:

fill boots with boiling water;
wait a couple of minutes until the material softens;
put on woolen socks and fill a large basin with cold water;
when the water in the boots has cooled down a little, it must be drained and immediately put on the shoes;
in boots, stand in a basin of cold water.

Stretching leatherette boots

Leatherette footwear is particularly flexible. Therefore, stretching it is not as difficult as products made from other materials. So, there are several effective methods:

Use laundry soap ... Artificial leather will quickly soften under the influence of this soap. So, you need to dilute the laundry soap until a pasty foam is formed. Apply this foam to the inside of the boots. Leave on for a couple of hours, optimally for 5-6. Then, using a sponge, remove the soap residue from the boots, put on socks and boots on your feet, walk until the shoes are completely dry.
Apply a building hair dryer ... Warm up the boots with a construction hair dryer, put on heated shoes on your feet (with a thick toe), wear for a while.
Newspaper method also perfect for leatherette boots.
The use of alcohol and alcohol-containing ... Alcohol is also capable of softening leatherette boots, as well as any alcohol-containing substances. Moisten the inside of the boots with vodka or cologne, put on your feet, walk until completely dry.

How to stretch faux leather boots?

Faux leather boots are relatively inexpensive and therefore very popular. But they can be too small.

You can stretch artificial leather boots in the following ways:

Spray for artificial leather. The product is sold in specialized stores and can soften the surface of the product. To do this, you just need to spray the boots with a spray.
The method of stretching with alcohol and wet newspapers, freezing and processing with castor oil is also suitable for artificial leather.
Raw potatoes stretch the toe of the boot nicely. The peeled tuber is tightly inserted into the boot for a couple of hours or even overnight. After - carry the boots.

How to stretch the tops of your boots at home?

A narrow bootleg is a serious problem that can also be dealt with at home:

Professional shoe stretchers are available in many brand stores. Best of them: Salton, Salamander, Kiwi. The product is applied to the shaft from the outside. Then boots are put on a terry sock and worn until the product is completely absorbed.
You can rub the bootleg of a narrow product with castor oil, put on and wear until it is completely dry.
The greasy cream must be applied on both sides of the boot, placed in the bootleg with a plastic bottle of warm water and left overnight.
The tops of leather boots can be stretched by pouring boiling water over it and putting the boot on the leg.
The tops of thick leather boots can be stretched with flannel and an iron. To do this, straighten the bootleg and place the boot (unbuttoned) on the ironing board. Steam the bootlegs thoroughly through a damp flannel napkin.

If the boot is narrow right after purchase, do not rush to resort to stretching methods. Perhaps in a few days it will disperse by itself to the desired size.

How to stretch winter boots?

It is difficult to stretch winter boots, since they have fur inside, and not all processing methods can have a beneficial effect on its condition. the way out will be warm socks and warming up with a hairdryer. You can also use special sprays or stretchers for winter shoes. These are the safest and most reliable methods of stretching fur shoes.

Alternative methods of stretching boots

There are a couple of alternative methods on how to stretch the shoe one size. For instance:

You can organize a "steam room" for boots at home. To do this, you need to hold the boot over steam, for example, over a boiling kettle or a pot of water. Quickly put on steamed boots and walk for a couple of hours.
Especially risky ones can try to lubricate suede boots with hot vegetable oil. After that, put on your boots and leave them on for several hours.
Paraffin candles will help stretch your boots. To do this, melt the wax, pour it into bags (as in the freezing method) and place it in boots. Wait for hardening.
If the heels or side walls of the boot are rubbed, you can treat them with laundry soap.
Another remedy is kerosene treatment for those who are not afraid of an unpleasant odor. Boots are abundantly moistened with kerosene and worn out for several hours.

On methods of stretching other shoes -. In the issue "All will be good" experts talk about ways that will allow you to stretch boots:

So, buying small boots is not a reason to be upset. Various methods of stretching your boots can help you cope with this problem. The only thing to consider is the material of the product and compatibility with one or another method of stretching.