Women's and men's footwear collections should always include a pair of leather boots to add a certain charm, ruggedness, and sophistication to your personality. When things get colder, leather boots can keep your feet warm. As durable and hardwearing as leather may be, it also requires a degree of break-in before it can be comfortably worn on a regular, extended basis. What's more heartbreaking than purchasing your favourite pair of boots only to discover that they are extremely painful? Wearing brand-new footwear almost always results in rubbing and blisters, no matter how thick the socks are or how perfect the fit is. Boots made of leather can harden after regular wear and constant exposure to heat, water, and dust.

So is there a way to soften them without creating any permanent damage? Wearing them and suffering the uncomfortable consequences until the leather softens is the tried and tested method for most. Bringing your old hardened leather boots to life and to make wearing brand-new leather shoes more comfortable, there are some tips you can follow.

Break In

When the material stretches around your foot, it is said to "break in." And as soon as you get your leather boots home, they will be stiff because you haven't broken them in. It is inevitable that everything in the boot will stretch to some degree. Although it's microscopic, your feet can actually feel the difference. There are certain ways of doing this, some of the best, proved and tested methods include using extra heat, wearing them around the house, or using a boot stretcher.

Use Oil To Soften Leather Boots

Using oil on your leather boots has proven beneficial in the past in order to soften them. However, you must use the right method and products for a successful outcome. Your shoes should not be oiled before they have been cleaned. Use a damp cloth to wipe away any grime attached to the surface. It is possible to soften leather shoes using many oils and prevent damage at the same time such as Mink oil, saddle soap, or coconut oil.

Put some oil in a clean, small dish. Dip your fingers in the oil and rub them lightly on the surface of your leather shoes. You can use a clean piece of cloth as well. If you intend to apply another coat, you may need to wait a few hours or a full day. Let the shoes sit until they stop feeling greasy to the touch.

Use Conditioner To Soften Leather Boots

If you want to enjoy your leather boots for a long time, you must take proper care of them. A common belief is that you are only required to soften them when they are new. However, they can get hard after regular wear so you must apply leather conditioner and other softeners frequently. As soon as your new boots arrive, apply some leather conditioner or oil to help soften the hard leather. Continue to apply the conditioner weekly until the boots are broken in, and then continue to apply monthly as part of your leather care routine. Use the same method to apply a conditioner as the oil.

Use Spray To Soften Leather Boots

In the event all the above methods don't work, you might consider using a softening spray. No matter what method you use, your boot leather is sure to stretch eventually, but make sure to be patient to avoid any permanent damage. Sprays for shoes can be extremely effective, as most are alcohol-based, allowing them to dry quickly and thus avoiding watermarks. It is recommended that you apply the spray while wearing them in your house to help them soften without leaving a mark. The good news is that once you have broken in a pair of boots, they will fit your feet perfectly for life, and there is nothing better than good-quality boots that are soft, comfortable, and stunning.

Nonetheless, check the size guide while making a purchase and buy a leather care kit along with your boots to maintain them. Clean them regularly after rough wear. Apply a moisturizer and conditioner after they have been exposed to water, heat, or dust to ensure they remain soft and comfy.