Cowboy boots that are too small are rigid, stiff, and uncomfortable. If you have cowboy boots that are too small, here are 3 methods you can do to stretch them yourself at home.
How to Stretch Cowboy Boots at Home
When trying on cowboy boots, it’s important to have the right size on them. Use a shoe measurement tool to get the right length and width. That’s going to ultimately give you the best comfort.
You can always stretch your cowboy boots in the store.
A professional will stretch the instep, shafts, and width using a special machine. If you want to do it yourself, here’s how to stretch cowboy boots at home:
1. Use a “boot stretch” spray
The simplest method to stretch cowboy boots at home is to use a “boot stretch” spray. It is a product that helps relax the leather and makes your cowboy boots more comfortable.
One of the main advantages of using a boot stretch spray is that it allows your boots to stretch exactly to the dimensions of your feet rather than to a machine.
To use the “boot stretch” spray, all you have to do is to spray it inside the cowboy boots, and then put them on and walk around until the boots dry.
Once you’re done with that, make sure you condition the leather to get that moisture back into the leather. Otherwise, it could dry out and you could have some cracks.
This product will also reduce the number of blisters you suffer as a result of the long break-in period. It is highly recommended, but there is also another option…
2. Apply steam to the interior of the cowboy boots
You can also apply steam to the inside of the boot to stretch it out. This can be done with a steam cleaner or steam coming out of a kettle (if you don’t have a steamer).
Warning: it is not recommended to steam your cowboy boots if you need to wear them the next day. Applying steam can make the boots overly moist as they may not dry in time.
Boil a kettle full of water. Once the steam is shooting from the spout, place your boot over the steam so that it flows into the shaft (the steam enters through the boot’s opening).
This will start to relax that leather of your cowboy boots. However, it is not recommended to do this for more than 30 seconds. Too much moisture on leather can be damaging.
After steaming, make a fist and stretch the inside of the cowboy boot with your hand. Rotate the boot over to manipulate the instep, shaft, and width to your liking by applying pressure.
You can also put the boots on and walk around for an hour or two. Before wearing your boots, make sure you air them out and cool them off because they get very hot with steam.
If it’s not enough, repeat that process and you should be good to go.
3. Install cowboy boot stretcher
Another effective method to stretch cowboy boots is to install a cowboy boot stretch and leave them overnight. A stretcher works by stretching the inside of a boot and maintaining that shape.
Be sure to choose a cowboy boot stretcher that comes with bunion plugs and pad plugs that allow you to loosen multiple small areas inside the boot that may be causing you discomfort.
To use a cowboy boot stretcher, insert the toe block into the toe box. Wedge it in far enough so that the toe box block touches the end of the toe box on the inside.
To widen the boot, turn the widening handle to expand the toe block. Once it feels snug, turn it 2 or 3 more times for a proper stretch. Leave the stretcher inside for at least 24 hours.
You can also take it to the next level by combining steam. Apply steam to the inside of the cowboy boots to relax the leather, then install the cowboy boot stretcher.
FAQ on Stretching Cowboy Boots
Below, we list all the most frequently asked questions surrounding the topic of stretching cowboy boots. We will always add new answers so feel free to bookmark this article.
1. Can you stretch out cowboy boots?
You can stretch out cowboy boots if they are too small around certain parts of your foot.
While it’s best to let a professional stretch your cowboy boots, you can do it yourself by using a “boot stretch” spray or steaming the interior of the boots (using steam coming out of a kettle).
2. How much can you stretch a pair of cowboy boots?
Generally, you can stretch leather cowboy boots to about one-fourth of their initial measurements, but how much you can stretch a pair of cowboy boots depends on the brand.
Cowboy boots only stretch if they fit your feet correctly, to begin with, and some areas of the boots don’t stretch at all. Before buying cowboy boots, measure the instep, shafts, and width.
3. How long does it take for cowboy boots to stretch?
Cowboy boots are made to stretch and mold to the shape of your feet. Leather is quite pliable, and over one or two weeks, boots should expand and fit your feet comfortably.
You can speed up this process by using a cowboy boot stretcher.
4. How much does it cost to stretch cowboy boots?
On average, it costs $15 to $20 to stretch leather cowboy boots (for men and women). Stretching the length and width will cost $18 while stretching the boots on the calf will cost $45.
5. How can I stretch boots without a boot stretcher?
You can stretch your boots without a boot stretcher by using a “boot stretch” spray or applying steam to the inside of the boots. Both methods will relax the leather and allow it to stretch.
Bottom Line
And there you have it, 3 proven methods to stretch your cowboy boots at home. By applying the tips above, you can now wear your cowboy boots with comfort. Ride ‘em, cowboy!
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