How to Break-in Boots

Breaking in a new pair of boots can be miserable if you do it the wrong way.
In this video, I’ll show you how to break in leather boots properly without destroying your feet, soaking your boots, or relying on weird internet tricks that can ruin good leather.

The most important part starts before the break-in process: fit. If your boots are the wrong size, too narrow, too short, or crushing your toes, no break-in method is going to fix that.

I’ll walk through the way I break in boots, including wearing them around the house first, using thicker socks, bringing a backup pair, dealing with high arches, skipping eyelets, reducing heel slip, using a surgeon’s knot, softening tight spots, and why heat should only be used as a last resort.

This applies to work boots, heritage boots, dress boots, and heavy leather boots from brands like Nick’s, White’s, Red Wing, Thorogood, Thursday, Allen Edmonds, and more.

#Boots #WorkBoots #LeatherBoots

Timestamps:
0:00 Intro
0:16 Why boots need to break in
0:59 Where boots crease and bend
1:38 Fit comes first
2:16 Get measured before buying boots
3:10 Why custom boots fit better
3:55 Start with thick socks
4:22 Wear them around the house first
5:06 Bring backup boots
6:01 Break them in gradually
6:53 Dealing with high arches
7:34 Tight spots near the toe box
8:30 Why I don’t recommend soaking boots
8:50 Alcohol and water method
9:22 Fixing heel slip
10:31 Surgeon’s knot for heel lock
11:17 Using heat as a last resort
12:31 Final boot break-in advice

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Reviews of clothing, boots, and accessories for men, along with style advice and life philosophy. I've been working with my hands for my entire life as a mechanic, tow truck driver, and eventually a licensed electrician. Being a blue collar guy, I look for certain elements in a product: is it durable? Is it high-quality? Will it perform well over its service life? Whether boots, pants, jackets, or tools I believe it's best to buy once and cry once by getting the best you can afford. With so many options these days, choosing the best product can become a difficult decision, but that's where I come in. Helping you stay stylish, rugged, and handsome.
I don't care where it's made as long as it's made well, and allows you to buy less and buy better.