This post may contain affiliate links which means I may receive a commission for purchases made through links. Learn more on my Private Policy page.
When you first receive your new red wing boots, they may feel a bit tight. But this is normal; leather will stretch to fit perfectly over time as it breaks in.
The good news is that there are ways to reduce the break-in period for new Iron Ranger or Beckman boots. With proper care, following these traditional methods will make both your feet and shoes more comfortable over time.
Size
When purchasing Red Wing boots, size is of the utmost importance. It ensures a secure fit and allows you to enjoy your new shoes comfortably.
Boots that are too tight around the sides may cause discomfort and pain to your feet. To avoid such issues, select the smallest size available but ensure your toes have room to move.
Before purchasing boots, it is wise to test them out by wearing socks and taking a walk.
Alternatively, shoe stretchers can expedite the break-in period. These are easy to set up and a great addition for any boot cabinet.
Red Wing Heritage boots come in D (normal) and EE (wide) widths, as well as half sizes.
Leather
Comfortable boots are essential for anyone who spends a lot of time on their feet. This is especially true if you work in an intense job or engage in activities requiring heavy machinery like hunting or fishing.
Boots that are too tight or large can be uncomfortable to wear and may cause you to experience achy, irritated and sore after some time. However, stretching your boots will allow them to fit better and provide more comfort.
Leather is an ideal material for break-in boots due to its natural elasticity and capacity to stretch back to its original size. However, overstretching can be dangerous since it alters the structure of the leather, making it harder to return to its original size again.
Over-stretching can occur when using a boot stretcher to stretch a boot for an extended period, or applying excessive pressure throughout the process. This could lead to cracks in the boot or break its seams.
Sole
Red Wing's iconic flat-bottom sole is engineered to be tough, stable and soft at once – providing superior traction and serving as the foundation of their safety work boots for over 100 years. It has served to safeguard hardworking individuals on the job since then.
For example, Red Wing's Iron Ranger boot is constructed with premium leather that has been tanned specifically for this boot. Additionally, it boasts a goodyear welt and urethane sole that offer oil and gas resistance.
Resoling a boot's sole can be done, but it is important to remember that leather will stretch during break-in. This process, known as “form fitting,” is commonly done for boots.
Preventing this from occurring by taking your boots out of service when not in use. Doing this allows the leather to dry out, which in turn increases their longevity both inside and outside the boot.
Last
Red Wing boots are renowned for their superior quality and long-lasting design, so it may take some break in time for wearers to get the most out of them.
When purchasing Red Wing boots, it is essential to give them enough stretch so they fit correctly on your feet. Without proper break-in time, boots may not provide you with the support and flexibility that you require when wearing them; thus, taking extra care ensures the correct shape for optimal comfort.
To get your boots to stretch, there are several techniques. The most efficient is applying a shoe stretching solution inside the boot.
