Tricks to Dance the Night Away in New or Uncomfortable Heels

Wearing new or uncomfortable heels can make an evening out feel like a real struggle, but there are ways to stretch them out and make them more comfortable, even if you bought them right before an event. Follow these simple tricks, and you’ll be able to dance all night without worrying about sore feet, blisters, or tightness.

1. Use a Blow Dryer to Stretch the Material:

• How to Do It:
  • Put on a pair of thick socks and slide them on before wearing your new heels.
  • Use a blow dryer on the hottest setting and direct the heat onto the areas of your heels that feel tight.
  • Move your feet around as you apply the heat to loosen up the material.
  • Keep the heat on the shoes for 2-3 minutes, then remove the socks and let the shoes cool off while still on your feet. The heat helps soften the material, stretching it just enough to fit comfortably.
• Why It Works: Heat softens leather, suede, and synthetic materials, making it more pliable and easier to stretch.

2. Use Freezer Bags for Stretching:

• How to Do It:
  • Fill two small freezer bags with water, making sure they fit snugly inside the shoes.
  • Place the shoes in the freezer and leave them overnight. As the water freezes, it will expand, gently stretching the shoes out.
• Why It Works: The freezing process slowly stretches the material of your shoes without damaging them.

3. Insert Shoe Stretchers:

• How to Do It:
  • Buy a shoe stretcher (available at most shoe stores or online).
  • Insert the stretcher into your shoes, adjusting it to create gentle pressure on the areas that need stretching.
  • Leave the shoe stretcher in place overnight, and the shoes will gradually loosen up.
• Why It Works: Shoe stretchers provide consistent pressure that helps loosen tight spots without causing harm to the shoe material.

4. Apply a Stretching Spray:

• How to Do It:
  • Purchase a shoe stretching spray (or make your own with rubbing alcohol and water).
  • Lightly mist the areas of your shoes that feel tight.
  • Put on thick socks and wear the shoes around the house for about 30 minutes.
• Why It Works: The alcohol helps soften the material, making it more flexible and easier to mold to the shape of your feet.

5. Padded Inserts or Gel Cushions:

• How to Do It:
  • Use gel inserts or cushioned pads specifically designed for high heels.
  • Place them in the toe or ball of the shoe to relieve pressure and prevent blisters.
  • These cushions help absorb shock and create a softer, more comfortable fit.
• Why It Works: Gel and padded inserts provide extra comfort by redistributing pressure and reducing friction, preventing sore spots.

6. Rub the Inside of the Shoes with a Leather Conditioner: