If you've ever found yourself in a situation where your shoes feel a bit snug, you may be wondering if it's possible to stretch them out. The good news is that most cycle shoes can be stretched, but there are a few things you need to keep in mind before you get started.
First, it's important to understand that not all materials respond well to stretching. For example, leather and suede will usually give way quite easily, while something like nylon or canvas may take some more effort. If you're not sure what your shoes are made of, it's always best to err on the side of caution and take them to a professional shoe cobbler or retailer who can help you out.
Once you know your shoes are stretchable, the next step is to figure out how much stretching they'll need. This will largely depend on how tight they feel and what kind of cycling activities you'll be using them for. If you just need a little extra room for comfort, a simple pair of hand-held shoe stretchers may do the trick. However, if your shoes are really constricting your feet or if you're looking to use them for high-impact activities like racing, then it's best to leave the job up to the professionals.
Finally, once you've decided how much stretching your shoes need, it's time to get down to business! There are two popular methods for stretching cycle shoes: wetting them down or using heat. Both methods work by essentially weakening the material so that it becomes more pliable and easier to manipulate.
To wet-stretch your shoes, simply soak them in lukewarm water for 10-15 minutes until they're fully saturated. Then put them on and wear them around until they dry completely - this could take several hours depending on the climate/temperature outside. As they dry, their shape will slowly start to change and mould itself more closely around your feet - giving you that perfect fit! Just make sure not walk around too much in puddles or mud while they're drying off!
Heat-stretching is another popular method which involves using an actual heat source (usually a hairdryer) on low setting held about 6 inches away from the shoe material for 1-2 minutes per section. Once again - start slow with this method as too much heat can damage your shoes beyond repair! After heating each section thoroughly, put on your shoes and