Hey, Doc Marten Admirers…! Have you ever found yourself in that ‘ouch moment’ where your beloved Doc Martens feel tight on top of your foot?
If yes, you’re likely aware of how uncomfortable it can be, potentially disrupting blood circulation and leading to painful conditions such as foot fatigue, swollen feet, numbness, tingling, or even nerve damage with prolonged exposure.
Doc Marten, a renowned footwear brand, is widely popular among Hollywood stars for its chunky, trendy, stylish, and shiny boots, sandals, and Oxfords.
However, it’s a well-known fact that a new pair from this brand often leads to discomfort, and sometimes even blisters, especially on the top of the foot due to the tight fit in the initial days.
So, what can be done in this situation?
Doc Martens Tight On Top Of Foot
The break-in period for Doc Martens can be long and uncomfortable, especially when they are tight across the top of your foot.
However, you can speed up the process and achieve comfort more quickly by following a simple trick outlined below:
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Doc Martens are designed with an extra inner lining, and the good news is that this insole is removable.
So, if you find your Docs are too tight on the top of your foot, try wearing them without the extra lining. This will create more breathability inside the shoe, giving your feet more room to move without restriction.
If that tip doesn’t work, don’t worry! There are several other methods you can try to stretch out your tight pair of Doc Martens:
Let’s explore them:
Significant And Quick Ways To Stretch Doc Martens
It’s no secret that wearing Doc Martens often comes with the phrase “no pain, no gain,” as your feet must endure some discomfort before they mold to your shape.
Almost every pair of Doc Martens can cause some discomfort, and the best approach is to remain patient and let them break in properly.
Alternatively, you can try some simple at-home tips to make your Docs more comfortable to wear.
Wear Your Docs In Short Intervals
It’s advised not to wear your brand-new Doc Martens for extended periods as their stiffness can lead to discomfort.
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During the break-in period, wear them for short walks around your home or neighborhood in small intervals until they begin to mold to your feet.
Apply Leather Conditioner
The leather used in Doc Martens is incredibly durable and long-lasting, making it quite stiff.
To soften the leather, you can apply a leather conditioner using a sponge or clean cloth.
Additionally, leather-softening balms like Wonder Balsam can help, as they contain a mixture of lanolin, beeswax, and coconut oil. This combination not only softens the leather but also maintains its shine and prevents it from drying out and cracking.
Repeat this process until the leather softens enough to provide a comfortable fit.
Tying The Shoe Laces
If you’ve purchased a pair of high-platform Doc Martens with an 8-eyelet lacing system, make sure to tie them carefully.
It’s recommended not to tie them too tightly, as this can restrict blood flow and cause discomfort such as tingling, numbness, or even nerve damage.
If the laces feel too tight, loosen them or adjust them for a snug but comfortable fit.
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Use A Hair Dryer
Applying heat directly to the leather can help soften it, but there are precautions to consider before doing so.
First, keep a safe distance of 4-5 inches between your shoe and the hair dryer, and second, use a medium heat setting.
Wonder why?
Overheating the leather can dry it out, causing it to become fragile and prone to damage.
The process is simple:
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- Blow hot air evenly across all parts of your shoe for 30 seconds each
- Then, put on your warm shoes and take a walk.
- This will help soften the leather over time.
Note: Both heating and freezing are effective methods to stretch Doc Martens.
Final Words
The break-in period for Doc Martens can last anywhere from one to one and a half months or even longer, depending on the shape of the wearer’s feet, different footwear styles, individual needs, and preferences.
However, by following the above tips and tricks, you can help expedite the process and make your shoes more comfortable to wear.
