How to Break in a New Pair of Work Boots

Work boots don't last forever. Most of them will only last for a few years, after which you'll need to replace them. After buying a new pair of work boots, though, you may want to break them in.

Like with other types of footwear, new boots are typically stiff. They aren't soft and flexible. Rather, they feature a stiff texture that manifests in the form of discomfort. The good news is that you can break in your new work boots so that they feel softer and less stiff. Here are several tips to follow when breaking in your new work boots.

Make Sure They Fit

The size of your new work boots matters. If they are too big or too small, they may remain stiff for a longer period -- regardless of how much you try to break them in. You should be able to comfortably place your feet inside of them while achieving a snug but not tight fit. With the right size, you'll have an easier time breaking in your new work boots.

Wear Wool Socks

You should wear wool socks when breaking in your new work boots. As previously mentioned, new work boots are typically stiff, and wearing them for an extended period may cause discomfort. You can protect your feet from discomfort, though, by wearing wool socks with your new work boots. Wool socks are soft, and when compared to cotton socks, they are typically thicker. Therefore, you can wear them in conjunction with your new work boots to prevent foot pain and discomfort.

Wear a Few Hours Each Day

The easiest way to break in a new pair of work boots is to wear them. You don't have to wear them all day long. Rather, wearing them just two to three hours a day will suffice. Some people break in their new boots by wearing them indoors for a few hours each day, whereas others wear their new boots outdoors for a few hours each day. Whether you wear them indoors or outdoors, though, your new work boots will feel softer after about a week.

Apply a Conditioner

Assuming your new work boots are made of leather -- most work boots are, in fact, made of leather -- you can break them by using a conditioner. Conditioners are products that are designed to condition leather. They consist of creams and lotions that you can apply to the surface of your new work boots. The leather exterior of your new work boots will soak up the conditioner, resulting in a softer texture that's better protected from dryness.