How To Stretch Strappy Heels [5 Easy Methods!]

Imagine you just bought the cutest pair of strappy heels. On your way back home from the store, you think about all the cute outfits they go with. You rush through the door to try them on again, only to have your excitement wane. Those strappy heels feel a little too tight. But don't worry, there are ways to stretch heels. Lucky for you, we have done the research, so you know exactly how to make them fit perfectly.

There are many ways to stretch out strappy heels. Here are some of the most effective methods:

• Use the freezer 
• Try thick socks and heat
• Wear them around the house 
• Get a shoe stretcher or spray
• Consult a professional

You can try the at-home methods first before you bring your heels to a cobbler. They will save you money but may take more time and effort. 

You probably still have questions about stretching your strappy heels. Keep reading to find out more about each of the above methods.

Ways To Stretch Your Strappy Heels

Whether your feet have changed shape with time, or you impulse bought a pair of heels that were a little too tight, we all have reasons to stretch our strappy heels. The following methods are sure to expand your shoes to the perfect size.

You may also have trouble with other shoes rubbing the top of your feet and causing blisters. Check out this blog post, How To Stop Sandles Rubbing Top Of Foot, for more information about this topic. 

1. The Freezer Method

This method works for stretching the straps as well as the toe and heel areas. First, take two plastic sandwich bags and fill them 1/2 to 2/3 of the way up with water. Next, take the bags and position them in your shoes. Make sure there is enough water to push the straps out. You may need to add more water to the bag or place another bag filled with water in the shoe.

Then, put your shoes in a freezer overnight. The water will expand and turn to ice. This expansion should push the staps of your heels outward and force them to stretch. The next morning, take your heels out of the freezer. Let them defrost for at least thirty minutes before you remove the bags. It is important to let the ice melt a little before taking the bags out of the heels.

2. The Socks And Heat Method 

This is an excellent method for getting those pesky straps a little looser. First, put on a pair of thick socks. Then, take another pair of socks and stuff them on the top of your foot, so the socks you are wearing keep them in place. Ideally, you want the stuffed sock to be where the straps of your shoes fit your foot.

Next, squeeze your sock-covered foot into your heels. This may be difficult, but try to deal with the discomfort. However, if you cannot jam your foot inside, try to change into thinner socks and see if that helps. After you get your foot in your shoe, take a blow dryer and direct the heat towards the problem areas. Try to push your foot outwards on the straps to make sure they stretch even more.

Remember to be careful if you are stretching leather or suede heels. Direct heat may damage these materials, so be mindful of how close you hold the hairdryer to the straps. Also, pay attention to how your feet feel. You don't want to burn them.

3. The Walking Method

Wearing your shoes and walking around your house is one of the simplest ways to expand your strappy heels. Put the pair on that you wish to stretch and walk around. Try to walk on soft surfaces, like carpets or rugs. Also, do not overdo it. Brand new shoes may need time to adjust to your unique feet, so you don't want to injure yourself by trying to break them in. Start wearing them for 10 to 15 minutes and work your way up to longer periods until the straps feel comfortable on your feet.

If you are curious about boot stretching, check out this blog post: Do Boots Stretch As You Wear Them?[And How Much]. 

4. The Shoe Stretcher Or Spray Method

If the above methods don't work for you, you can always try to purchase a tool to help. Shoe stretchers are an excellent way to stretch out all styles of shoes. This helpful tool is not a regular household item, but it does come in handy. Once you buy one, you just may be using it on all your shoes.

You can use them to stretch sandals too. For more information about this topic, check out this blog post: How To Stretch Sandals Wide. 

Formé Shoe Shapers

Here is a modern shoe stretcher you could use on your strappy heels. From flats to 6-inch heels, they work on all types of shoes. No matter what shoe you want to stretch, they can help.

Click here to view them on Amazon.

You may find a shoe stretcher is better for widening shoes than stretching out straps. But, don't worry, there are still shoe sprays that help with strap stretching. Most of the sprays on the market are meant for leather shoes, but plenty work on other fabrics.

Kiwi Select Shoe Stretch Spray

This leather shoe stretch spray is perfect for all of your leather heels. Follow the directions on the bottle, and your heels will fit better in no time.

Click here to view it on Amazon.

Moneysworth & Best Shoe Stretch Liquid

Here is a shoe stretch liquid that works on more than just leather. Use it on canvas, linens, and vinyl too. This is the universal stretch product you have been searching for.

Click here to view it on Amazon.

5. The Cobbler Method

If you don't want to hassle with these DIY methods or have tried them and don't seem to work, you can always take your heels to a professional. Search online for a local cobbler. Trust us; they still exist. Then, bring your heels to them. They have plenty of experience with shoe stretching. Tell them what you are hoping for, and they should quote you a price. Visiting a shoe repair shop is a great way to ensure professional quality, but it will cost more.

Is It Better For Heels To Be Tight Or Loose? 

Your heels should not be tight nor loose. You want all of your shoes to fit you correctly. If you try on a pair of heels and they are loose, go down a size. If they are too tight, go up a half size or more. You should never purposely buy shoes that do not fit you properly.

If your shoes are too big, check out this blog post: Shoes Too Big? 7 Ways To Make Shoes Smaller.

How Do I Make Strappy Heels More Comfortable? 

There are many different methods for making strappy heels more comfortable. Here are a few of the most common ways:

• Line the back of the straps with moleskin
• Apply moleskin directly to your feet
• Tape your third and fourth toes together. This takes the pressure off the ball of your foot
• Invest in high-quality shoes
• Use gel inserts
• Put deodorant on your feet. It eases the friction between your skin and your heels

How To Put A Hole In A Shoe Strap? 

Sometimes the pre-poked shoe strap holes are not in the best position for our unique feet. Luckily, adding a new hole is very easy. All you need is a small sharp object like a pin or thumbtack. First, determine where you want the new hole to be. Then, take the pin and carefully push it through the desired location. If you have a knitting needle or bobby pin on hand, you can use one of them to widen the hole.

Does Leather Stretch When Wet?

Yes, leather does stretch when it gets wet. But, before you go soaking your leather strappy heels in water and trying to stretch them, remember water can also damage leather. It may weaken the fibers and cause discoloration, so never purposely soak your leather heels with water.

It's Time To Stretch

Now that you know a few ways to stretch your strappy heels, you can get started. Soon your favorite pair of heels you rarely wear will be your go-to look. Never let a tight strap hold you back from rocking your strappy heels again!