Stretch for shoes made of genuine leather and artificial leather

06/18/2018 Category: Shoe care Author: Ksenia Kalugina

It often happens that after buying a pair of shoes you like, you put them on and feel discomfort. In such situations, all that remains is disappointment, and your favorite shoes go on the shelf. But instead, you can try various effective methods of stretching and breaking in shoes, which will help get rid of the problem in the shortest possible time.

• 2 Effective ways
  2.1 Tools at hand

  2.1.1 Tools at hand - gallery

What is a shoe stretcher?

Often people come across excellent shoes, ankle boots, boots that suit almost all parameters, but are a little too tight. Stretching is a device or means thanks to which you don’t have to give up the option you like. It can be mechanical or chemical. Previously, shoes were stretched using various improvised means and even folk methods. Stretching helps to adjust the shape or size of a pair as safely as possible.

Kinds

Previously, folk methods were used to correct the shape and size of a product, some of them are relevant now. The most popular options:

1. Treating the product with cologne or alcohol. A generous amount of liquid is applied to the inside and outside. It is convenient to do this with a spray bottle. Then the pair is put on the feet with one or more socks and worn until completely dry.
2. Vaseline or castor oil. Any of these products should be used to treat the product inside and out, then wear it for several hours. The oil will remove not only tightness, but also the creaking of the sole.
3. Boiling water. In the absence of the above remedies, the couple can simply be treated with very hot water. This method is only suitable for natural leather products. You need to quickly pour boiling water over the pair, cool slightly and put it on a thin sock.
4. Vinegar. Suitable for treating individual pressure areas from the inside.
5. Wet newspapers. To stretch the product, fill it with damp paper from the inside and wait until it dries completely under natural conditions.

Conventionally, all specialized stretch marks can be divided into two types: mechanical and chemical. They can be used either individually or in combination. Chemical stretchers are represented by sprays, foams, and solutions. They are produced by companies that produce shoe care products. Such compositions should be applied according to the instructions indicated on the packaging. As a rule, the product should be sprayed onto pressure areas from the inside or outside, and then immediately put on shoes and walk in them for a certain amount of time. Benefits of household stretch marks:

1. Various options are available for natural and artificial leather, nubuck, suede, and other materials.
2. The product does not leave traces in the form of spots, streaks, or change color.
3. They not only stretch, but also soften the leather surface, avoiding cracks and tears.

Professional mechanical stretchers are sold in shoe stores. You can also order them in the online store with delivery by mail from St. Petersburg, Moscow, and other cities. They often offer discounts, promotions, and sales. Shoe stretching machine - equipment in the form of a screw spacer. Made from wood, impact-resistant plastic, aluminum and other materials. The device works very simply. The spacer must be inserted into the semi-pair and the screw must be turned to set a certain width. Advantages:

1. Mechanical shoe stretchers can be used in combination with chemical ones.
2. Some models, especially wooden ones, have holes on the surface and are equipped with plastic convex covers. The holes are made in those places where, as a rule, shoes press. By inserting pads into them, you can adjust the shape to the individual characteristics of your own foot.
3. Shoe racks can be used for seasonal storage. Just pair the fixtures and put them away for a few months. This will protect against creases and other deformations.

Traditional methods

Similar methods have been known for a long time. They are used in everyday life using tools that are always at hand. These include heat and ice, lubricants, alcohol and newspapers. Let's consider several methods in order to choose the most effective one for a particular situation.

Butter

The shoes are lubricated inside and left for several hours. After this, excess oil is removed with a napkin, and the shoes are put on and broken in.

Kerosene

This substance helps to break in tight shoes. Before putting it on, you need to lubricate it inside or in problem areas. But kerosene can leave an odor, which is a side effect.

Paraffin

The product is applicable to different types of shoes. The shoes are polished inside and put on. Wear until the desired condition is achieved. A layer is formed that makes it easier to wear. If you rub a candle and pour it into your shoes, the paraffin will come into contact with the warmth of your feet and melt. This will naturally soften the shoe material.

Wool sock

Thick wool socks are moistened with warm water. Then you need to put them on and wear tight shoes in them. You should walk until it dries. At the end of the procedure, the shoes are stuffed with paper to absorb any remaining moisture.

Vaseline or castor oil

The oil method is good for natural leather. Castor oil is used to impregnate the shoes, after which the size is adjusted with socks. Vaseline is also a good softener.

Mechanical stretcher for shoes

Many manufacturers offer such adjustment devices. Mechanical stretching - screw strut. This device is inserted into a semi-pair. The width of the block is adjusted by a certain number of turns of the screw. The product can be made of durable plastic, metal, or wood. Often holes are made on the surface and the spacer is equipped with convex pads. By inserting them into the holes, you can adjust the product to the individual structure of the foot.

For women's shoes

Manufacturers produce separate stretchers for different genders. Women should pay attention to this device for stretching shoes:

• model name: Avel, female mechanical stretcher, YF004/5;
• price: 650 rubles;
• characteristics: production - China, 1 product, temperature and shelf life are not limited, made of wood with metal and polyurethane elements;
• pros: stretches in length and width, all parameters are easily adjustable, high-quality workmanship, includes anatomical inserts for stretching separately in the area of ​​the little finger, thumb joint, can be used either independently or in combination with a chemical stretcher;
• cons: weak design.

Below is a description of another wooden spacer for women's shoes and boots. Brief information:

• model name: Nico, female stretcher, 178039;
• price: 2230 rub.;
• characteristics: made of beech and metal, consists of a screw spacer, for the correction of leather products taking into account the foot, width adjustment from 7 to 9 cm, includes 1 last and 3 oval plastic inserts, increases fullness;
• pros: suitable for left and right legs, high-quality performance, quick results;
• cons: expensive.

The following shoe extender is made of metal and is durable and wear-resistant. Description:

• model name: ES, aluminum women's shoe stretcher, YM004/5;
• price: 3200 rub.;
• characteristics: aluminum, for all sizes, mechanical, stretches in length and width;
• pros: durable, easy to use;
• cons: not found.

For boots

To stretch tall products with high tops, special devices are needed. This option would be suitable:

• model name: Avel, mechanical boot stretcher, YF010W/M;
• price: 850 rub.;
• characteristics: for men, 1 pc., made of wood, metal and polyurethane, wide stretch, anatomical parameters are adjustable with plastic inserts;
• pros: comfortable, practical;
• cons: not found.

Below is another very effective shoe spreader. Description:

• model name: SL SLH02, stretch for women's boots, 79110;
• price: 2100 rub.;
• characteristics: sizes 36-42, silver, aluminum alloy;
• pros: effectively stretches boots wide, does not deform the material;
• cons: not found.

The next product is inexpensive because it is made of plastic with increased resistance to damage. Description:

• model name: SL SPH02, stretch for women's boots, 79105;
• price: 1000 rub.;
• characteristics: sizes 34-31, made of impact-resistant yellow plastic, for stretching across the width;
• pros: durable, high quality;
• cons: none.

For men's shoes

Representatives of the stronger sex, no less often than women, suffer from tight shoes and boots. If you encounter this problem, pay attention to the following spacer:

• model name: Collonil Classic, men's stretch pads, 9361 423, 136606150;
• price: 2730 rub.;
• characteristics: 2 pcs., size 42-43, beige, made of unvarnished beech, to increase the size, maintain shape and remove moisture, with a screw-on device;
• pros: durable, effective;
• cons: not adjustable in width.

The next product is made of beech, suitable not only for stretching, but also for storage. Description:

• model name: Nico, men's stretcher, 178040;
• price: 2620 rub.;
• characteristics: size 41-43, included 1 block with 7 holes and 3 plastic oval nozzles, made of beech, with metal and plastic elements, screw spacer for shape correction;
• pros: reliable, durable;
• cons: not found.

The next option is intended for men whose leg width is very large. Description:

• model name: SL SPM02, men's wide stretch, 79104;
• price: 1100 rub.;
• characteristics: for wide feet, size 41-45, yellow, made of impact-resistant plastic, several plastic attachments included, three holes for them on the last;
• pros: stretches well;
• cons: none.

Spray

Special chemicals are very popular now; they help solve the problem quickly and safely. If you are looking for an inexpensive option, pay attention to this:

• model name: Spray stretcher Pregrada, HS.05006, 135925179;
• price: 130 rub.;
• characteristics: 100 ml, product for stretching shoes at home made of natural and artificial suede, leather, gives elasticity, sprayed on pressure points from the inside before wearing;
• pros: stretches well, economical consumption, cheap;
• cons: none.

Reviews of the following product are very good; people note that this spray helps no worse than more expensive options. Description:

• model name: Stretcher Shtrikh “Comfort” universal, T0001389, 13615554;
• price: 180 rub.;
• characteristics: 125 ml, for softening and stretching uncomfortable tight products, for smooth leather, suede, velor, nubuck, textiles, combined materials, rubber products;
• pros: leaves no traces after use, helps well;
• cons: high consumption.

The following product has been on sale for several years and has proven itself well. Brief information:

• model name: Spray stretcher Collonil Stretch, 1521000, 136605961;
• price: 460 rub.;
• characteristics: 100 ml, for natural, artificial or coated leather;
• pros: does not leave contours or spots;
• cons: not found.

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The manufacturer has a large list of shoe care products, including stretchers. For example, this spray:

• model name: Salamander Shoe Stretch, 671351, 141122593;
• price: 235 rub.;
• characteristics: 75 ml, for suede and genuine leather, with a balanced complex of active substances;
• pros: softens the skin, helps avoid chafing;
• cons: none.

The following spray stretches natural and artificial leather well and does not leave stains on it. Description:

• model name: Spray-stretch for shoes Casablanca, 1311, 136454699;
• price: 285 rub.;
• characteristics: 160 ml, for artificial and natural leather;
• pros: adjusts products well, leaves no marks, effective, using a shoe stretcher is very convenient;
• cons: not found.

Manufacturers

Today on sale you can find universal stretchers from a variety of manufacturers that can be used for all types of shoes, with the exception of fur boots. Among them are:

• Salamander;
• Damavik;
• Silver;
• Salton;
• Pregrada.

Some products, according to consumers, are considered the most effective.

• Shoe Stretch. This spray is designed to stretch shoes. To carry out the treatment, you should spray the inner surface of the pair with the composition and pull it on with thick socks. You should walk like this for 35-40 minutes - you will notice the result immediately.

We draw special attention to the fact that when using the spray on shoes made of expensive materials, you need to be careful. Do not forget to protect your eyes from contact with the composition during processing.

• Salton. The spray is suitable for stretching the material and softening it. Optimal for shoes made of a wide variety of materials. To achieve the effect, a pair of shoes should be sprayed every time before putting them on; as a rule, after 3-4 treatments it takes a shape that is comfortable for the foot. Try to avoid inhaling aerosol particles.

• Kiwi. This composition is intended for stretching all types of shoes; the aerosol is sprayed only in the place where shoes, shoes or boots press. After this, you should wear the shoes for 30-40 minutes, and repeat the treatment if necessary. The spray has a pungent and rather unpleasant smell, so try to avoid inhaling its vapors.

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Foam

Products in this form of release are no less effective than sprays. If they interest you, take a closer look at the following option:

• model name: Foam stretcher for shoes Silver, SG3001-00, 5318113;
• price: 175 rub.;
• characteristics: 150 ml, for natural and artificial materials, leather, suede, nubuck;
• pros: quickly and effectively eliminates the problem, for all types of materials, does not leave marks, stains, or outlines;
• cons: none.

Damavik is a well-known manufacturer of care products for natural and artificial leather. Its line includes the following product:

• model name: Damavik foam stretcher, 19004, 142405064;
• price: 175 rub.;
• characteristics: 150 ml, for suede and natural and artificial leather;
• pros: helps to quickly soften pressure areas, stretches and fixes in the desired position;
• cons: none.

The Collonil company produces not only a spray, but also a good foam. Description:

• model name: Collonil, foam for stretching tight shoes;
• price: 575 rub.;
• characteristics: 100 ml, colorless, leaves no streaks or outlines, applied only to a hard area from the outside or inside, depending on the material;
• pros: helps quickly, is economical;
• cons: not found.

The following foam works well and is relatively inexpensive. Brief information about the product:

• model name: Twist Casual, stretch foam, 400387058;
• price: 175 rub.;
• characteristics: 100 ml, for all skin types, with golden amber oil;
• advantages: carefully and effectively softens tight areas, increases elasticity, restores;
• cons: none.

The foam, the description of which you will see below, is difficult to find on sale, but if you are lucky enough to buy it, you will not regret it. Description:

• Model name: Sitil, stretch foam;
• price: 190 rub.;
• characteristics: 150 ml, contains natural softening oils, for all types of natural leather;
• pros: effective, works quickly;
• cons: difficult to find on sale.

Security measures

Improper use of shoe stretchers often leads to the most unpleasant consequences for the life and health of the user. Thus, when inhaling spray vapors, swelling and irritation of the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract and eyes can occur. Do not apply foam and cream with bare hands; be sure to wear gloves. Correctly carry out the treatment outdoors or on the balcony.

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If you do not follow the rules for using the stretcher, you can not only not get the expected result, but also hopelessly ruin your shoes without any possibility of restoring them in the future. First of all, this applies to tapping with a hard object, such as a hammer. Of course, if we process army combat boots in a similar way, then perhaps only this method will be effective, but in the case of ordinary men's and women's shoes and boots, most likely the result of such stretching will be broken seams, dents on the surface and creases.

Prohibited methods also include stretching shoes until they tear; mechanical stretching should not be done by pushing hard objects into the shoes - such actions often result in deformation of the glued parts.

How to choose a shoe stretcher

The product should be in every home, because no one is immune from purchasing an imperfectly fitting pair. Which shoe stretcher to buy: mechanical or chemical, decide at your own discretion. The first option is preferable to people who have naturally wide feet or have clearly protruding bunions. The chemical product will come in handy if a particular pair is a little oppressive to you. General tips for choosing and using stretchers:

1. The shoes practically do not stretch in length. If a pair is too small for you, choose a different size. You won’t be able to stretch it to such a state that your toes stop resting on the toe and the heel stops rubbing your heel.
2. Expensive models made of genuine leather are not recommended to be stretched too vigorously mechanically. This may damage them. It is better to take them to a professional workshop.
3. Try the leather shoe stretcher first on an inconspicuous area, for example, the edge of the tongue. Modern formulations should not change the color of the product or leave marks, but it is better to be safe.
4. After stretching, natural leather loses its natural oils and becomes more brittle. After the procedure, treatment with cream or conditioner is required.

For genuine leather

Products made from such material must be treated with great care. Mechanical stretchers are not recommended for use on very thin and patent leather. It may not withstand the load and simply become covered with cracks and tears. On the contrary, it is better to stretch nubuck, suede or velor products mechanically or even wear them in, because any chemicals, even the most gentle ones, can leave marks on them that will be impossible to get rid of.

For artificial leather

Products made from non-natural materials are difficult to correct. The result can be unpredictable, because it is never known for certain what specific raw materials the shoes are made from. Sometimes materials are used that are not stretchable at all. The safest option in this case would be to purchase a chemical stretcher for artificial leather products. Mechanical methods are allowed to be used only at your own peril and risk.

Tips and tricks

Some useful tricks and recommendations:

1. If old shoes begin to pinch, then most likely the material from which they are made is of poor quality. To stretch your favorite pair, you can use the freezing method or hold the shoes over steam and then wear them wearing thick tights.
2. To effectively break in shoes, it is recommended to wear socks of different thicknesses. First thin, then a little thicker and the densest there is. This way, your favorite pair will not be harmed, but will stretch slowly and safely for the material.
3. To prevent shoes from stinging, you need to store them correctly. Under no circumstances should you put a wet pair of shoes or boots into the box. Before doing this, you need to wait until the shoes are thoroughly dry.

Leather shoes are easy to wear

In order for your favorite pair to last as long as possible, you need to use professional care products. It is not recommended to get shoes or boots too wet when washing. The surface can only be wiped with a damp cloth.