How to Break In New Shoes Without the Pain

New shoes: full of promise, potential… and sometimes, pinching. Whether it's sandals that nip or boots that feel like a personal trainer for your toes, the first few wears can be tricky. But not all shoes demand patience. In this guide, you'll discover how to break in new shoes without breaking your stride, and why FitFlop footwear is formulated to skip the drama altogether.     ### Why Breaking In Shoes Matters     Breaking in shoes simply means easing them into your lifestyle and adapting them to your foot shape. It’s especially common with structured styles made from materials like leather or suede, where the fit feels snug at first.   That snugness can cause issues: rubbing, blisters, tight toe boxes, and the kind of heel friction that makes every step feel like a small betrayal. The break-in period allows your shoes to soften, flex, and adjust while your feet remain (mostly) blister-free.    ### ### How Long Does It Take to Break in New Shoes?     It depends on what you’re wearing and what it’s made from.     · A pair of canvas trainers or fabric sandals might mould to your feet in a day or two. · Leather shoes and boots? Expect a week or more. · Running shoes with rigid construction may need a few longer wear sessions.    The material, construction, and even the type of footwear (think ankle boots versus ballet flats) will influence how long that break-in takes.    That said, many FitFlop customers report little to no breaking-in needed. Our shoes, sandals, and boots are designed around ergonomic footbeds, cushioned midsoles, and soft yet durable uppers, providing comfort that begins with every step.    ### 7 Tried & Tested Tips to Break in New Shoes Gently    Here’s how to make new shoes feel like old favourites without the discomfort.    **Wear Them in Short Bursts at First** Start slow. Wear your new shoes indoors for short periods. It’s the “walking around your house in them” approach, ideal for softening the material gradually without suffering through a full-day wear.     **Use Thick Socks to Prevent Rubbing** Wearing thick socks adds padding and can gently stretch snug areas. It’s especially effective for breaking in boots or leather shoes where the material needs a nudge.     **Flex the Shoes by Hand Before Wearing** Help them limber up. Bend and twist the soles gently, especially at the toe crease, to make stiff materials more forgiving. Just enough movement to loosen things, without compromising the shoe structure.    **Use a Shoe Stretcher or Spray (Where Appropriate)** If your shoes feel tight in one specific area, a shoe stretcher can work wonders. For leather or suede, combine with a stretch spray designed to soften materials without cracking them.     **Try the Heat Method — Carefully** Pop on thick socks, then warm the tight areas with a hairdryer on low heat while wearing the shoes. It helps the material mould to your foot. Best for leather. Avoid using this method on delicate or synthetic materials.     **Add Cushioned Insoles or Heel Pads** Extra insoles or heel pads reduce pressure points and protect against friction. Ideal if you're prone to blisters or need more support during the early wear phase.     **Apply a Barrier Balm or Petroleum Jelly** Before you head out, dab petroleum jelly or a barrier balm on high-friction spots like heels and little toes. This reduces rubbing while your shoes adjust. Always patch-test on materials like suede to avoid stains.     ### Breaking in Different Materials: What to Expect     Not all shoes are created equal. Here’s how different materials typically behave:   Different shoes behave differently:    • **Leather shoes and boots ** - Durable and premium, but often stiff at first. FitFlop uses supple leather uppers designed to soften faster than traditional alternatives. • **Canvas shoes** - Breathable and flexible. Typically breaks within a day or two. • **Suede shoes** - Soft and stylish but require gentle care. Avoid overexposure to water or heat and use a suede protector spray to maintain softness.     FitFlop styles often feature breathable textile linings and padded construction, so even structured designs feel forgiving, for example our [Delicato Leather Mary Janes](https://www.fitflop.com/uk/en/shop/womens-ballerinas-uk), or [Rally Leather Trainers](https://www.fitflop.com/uk/en/shop/rally-sneakers-all-uk).     ### How to Stop New Shoes Rubbing Your Heel     If there’s a universal shoe struggle, it’s heel rubbing. Caused by stiff backs, poor fit, or low socks, it’s the reason so many of us have plasters in every handbag.     Here’s how to fix it:   · Try heel grips or gel pads to cushion the contact point. · Use anti-friction balm or plasters in high-risk spots. · Check if your shoes are actually the right size.     ### How to Break In FitFlop Shoes, Sandals and Boots     The truth? Most FitFlop styles don’t need breaking in. But if you like to ease into things, here’s how to make that first wear even more comfortable:     • Sandals: Adjust the straps gradually across the first few wears for a truly personalised fit.   • Boots: Wear indoors with socks to help warm and soften the structure.   • Shoes: Flex them lightly by hand before heading out.   *“Very comfortable! Used them from day one and didn’t even have to break them in.” - Ruth Stewart, 5-star review*   From day one comfort to long-wear support, our biomechanically engineered footwear makes the break-in phase feel like a thing of the past.   ### When to Seek a Better Fit Instead    Still experiencing rubbing or pressure after a few wears? It might not be a break-in issue. It could simply be the wrong shoe size or fit.     At FitFlop, we offer wide-fit styles and an easy 28-day return policy so you can try them on and take your time.   Not sure about your size? Use our helpful chart and keep in mind:   “At FitFlop, we always say: Not quite sure about your size? Go ahead and choose the next size up. Your feet naturally expand throughout the day, and we want you to stay comfortable.”   [Find Your Fit](https://www.fitflop.com/uk/en/find-your-fit)  [Returns & Refunds](https://www.fitflop.com/uk/en/returns-and-refunds)   ### Find Comfortable Footwear That Needs Less Breaking In      Smart shoes shouldn’t demand patience. FitFlop is built around biomechanical cushioning, ergonomic midsoles, and comfort-first design so you can feel the difference from your very first step.      Browse our comfort-first collections:     •[ Women’s Boots](https://www.fitflop.com/uk/en/shop/womens-boots-uk) • [Women’s Sandals](https://www.fitflop.com/uk/en/shop/womens-sandals-uk) •[ Women’s Shoes](https://www.fitflop.com/uk/en/shop/womens-shoes-uk)    *If you're still having issues, please contact our Customer Service at* [*info.uk@fitflop.com*](mailto:info.uk@fitflop.com) ###