Break-in Guide for your New Shoes

New (quality) shoes can feel stiff at first, but don't worry—this is part of the journey. Here are a couple of tips to break them in:

1. Start slow

Wear them at home for short sessions (1–2 hours). Increase gradually over a few days. Avoid full workdays or long walks during the first wears. You'll give the materials time to become more supple and set/shape to your feet.

2. Thicker socks help

They add a bit of cushioning while the leather softens and the soles become more flexible.

3. For lace-up boots:

Skip the top lacing hook for the first few wears, or use the tie-around method. This prevents the top edge from pressing your leg until the leather relaxes.

4. Heel slip:

Mild heel slip is normal in the beginning — especially with Goodyear welted shoes. The soles are sturdy and not yet flexible at the toe joint, which creates a bit of tension and leveraging movement at the heel. Once the soles start to break in and flex naturally, heel slip will diminish.

*Remember*

Quality shoes are often less comfortable at first — they become comfortable through wear, as the materials gradually soften and shape to your feet.

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