7 ways to stretch your shoes
Reading time: 5 min | Last updated: 26 August 2025
Ouch! When you first tried on those new shoes, they felt amazing – but now you’re wearing them, it’s clear they’re just a bit too snug. And of course, the return window has closed… such a shame, especially when you really want to wear them. Luckily, there are a few handy tricks to help stretch your shoes – just a little. We’re not talking about jumping up from a size 4 to a size 7 overnight. But a few extra millimetres can make all the difference.
So, if your shoes don’t feel perfect right away – don’t panic! With a few clever tips, you might just get them comfy enough to wear all day long.
The risks of wearing shoes that are too tight
If you’ve been following us for a while, you’ll know how passionate we are about the right fit. We get it – we’ve all been tempted to squeeze into shoes that looked too good to resist. But trust us: it’s not worth it.
Too-tight shoes can cause real foot problems, such as:
Blisters – Constant rubbing causes painful blisters. No more long walks!
Ingrown toenails – Ouch. Pressure from tight shoes can push your nails into your skin.
Calluses – Your skin responds to friction by thickening. Hello, hard patches.
Bunions (also known as hallux valgus) – Pressure on the side of your foot can cause that painful bump.
Hammer toes – Tight shoes force your toes into awkward positions.
Poor circulation – Resulting in cold, tired, and aching feet.
- Heel pain/Plantar fasciitis – Too much pressure can inflame your heel. Not fun.
7 ways to stretch your shoes
You love your new shoes – but they’re too tight. What now? Good news: you’ve got options! You can take them to a cobbler or try one of these at-home tricks. Note: success isn’t guaranteed – and it’s at your own risk 😉.
1 | Let the cobbler do it
The quickest and safest way is to have your shoes stretched professionally. Cobblers have the right tools and can target specific areas, like width or toe room.
2 | Use the freezer trick
Sounds odd, but hear us out. Fill two freezer bags halfway with water, seal them tightly, pop them in your shoes, and then into the freezer they go overnight. As the water freezes, it expands – and so do your shoes. Bonus: this also helps with any lingering odours!
3 | Nifty newspaper hack
Stuff your shoes with slightly damp newspaper. As the paper dries, it expands and gently stretches the shoe. Just make sure the ink doesn’t rub off!
4 | Blow-dry them (carefully)
Pop on some thick socks, put your shoes on, and gently heat the tight spots with a hairdryer. Keep them on while they cool – the leather will hold its new shape. Just don’t overdo the heat!
5 | Try a shoe stretch spray
This softens the material and helps it stretch while wearing. Spray, slip on thick socks, and walk around the house. Be sure the spray matches your shoe material!
6 | Use shoe stretchers
An old-school but very effective method. Pop adjustable stretchers in your shoes for a few days and let them do their magic.
7 | Break them in with thick socks
A bit more ‘wearing in’ than ‘stretching’, but it helps! Wear thick socks and stroll around the house – your shoes will start to shape to your feet.
Stretching for width, instep and bunions
Too narrow?
Visit a cobbler or try stretch spray. Or skip the hassle and check out our wide fit collection – they’re comfy from the get-go.
High instep?
Use a hairdryer and thick socks or go for lace-ups and adjustable shoes – like our lace-up shoes.
Hallux valgus (bunions)?
Get your shoes professionally stretched at the pressure point or try bunion-specific stretchers. Even better? Choose shoes for bunions from our bunion-friendly range.
Stretching leather and suede shoes
Leather stretches well over time. Try any of the tricks above – especially the hairdryer, stretch spray or newspaper trick.
Suede, however, needs extra care. Avoid water or heat – use a suede-specific stretch spray or let a professional handle it.
When stretching doesn't work...
Sometimes, it’s just not meant to be. If the shape or fit is totally wrong for your foot, no amount of stretching will help – and forcing it may lead to pain and problems. Better to find a pair that’s made for your feet.
Wolky to the rescue!
All our shoes are designed for comfort – even for tricky feet. So whether you’re standing all day, walking miles for work, or just want to feel good from morning to night, we’ve got you covered. No stretching required.
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