Many people prefer combat boots for their durability, functionality and fashionable look. However, a common concern when buying combat boots is whether they will stretch over time.
In this article, we will explain how combat boots grow, why they grow, and how to maintain them.
What are Combat Boots?
Combat boots are a type of footwear developed for military use. Made to be durable, long-lasting, and comfortable to wear for extended periods of time.
Combat boots are often made of leather, suede, canvas, etc., and often have steel toe caps and waterproofing to enhance functionality.
Do Combat Boots Stretch?
The answer to the question of whether combat boots stretch is not easy.
How much a combat boot can stretch depends on the materials used, construction and how it is worn.
In general, leather combat boots stretch more than canvas or suede boots.
Leather is a natural material and will stretch to the shape of your foot over time.
However, the degree of elongation varies depending on the quality of the leather, the thickness of the leather, and the frequency of wear.
Wearing your boots correctly and taking good care of them can reduce stretch.
Combat boots made of canvas or suede are less flexible than leather, so they don’t stretch as easily. Nevertheless, it can continue to stretch slowly over time, depending on how it is worn and the pressure applied.
Why do combat boots stretch?
Combat boots stretch due to the materials used and their construction.
For example, leather, in particular, is a natural material that gradually adapts to the shape of your foot. Leather combat boots will stretch and conform to the shape of your feet as you wear them.
Due to their design, combat boots are also stretchy.
For example, boots with a wide toe box or high instep may stretch more than boots with a narrow toe box or low instep. Additionally, boots with more flexible soles may stretch more than those with stiffer soles.
How to extend combat boots?
If your purchased combat boots are a little too snug, there are some techniques you can use to stretch them out. However, overstretching the boot can damage it or impair its functionality, so this should be done with caution.
Here are some methods to consider:
1.) Keep it on while you are indoors
Wearing combat boots inside is one of the easiest ways to stretch your boots. Wear thick socks and walk in them for several hours each day. This allows the leather to gradually stretch without putting too much pressure on the boot.
2.) Use a shoe stretcher
Another way to stretch your combat boots is with a shoe stretcher. Shoe stretchers are made for incrementally increasing the length and width of your shoes.
Purchase a shoe stretcher at a shoe store or online and use it according to the instructions.
3.) Use stretch spray
You can also use a stretch spray instead. These sprays are designed to soften leather and make it easier to stretch.
Spray the inside of your boots and wear them with thick socks. This technique can be successful, but it’s important to use a premium stretch spray that won’t damage the leather.
4.) Use a hair dryer
Another easy way is to use a hair dryer to stretch your tactical boots at home.
In fact, the heat softens the leather and promotes expansion.
Since most tactical boots are made of leather, the heat of a hairdryer is very helpful in stretching them.
5.) Use Steam
Another effective way to extend your tactical boots is to steam them. Leather softens and becomes more flexible when exposed to steam.
Use a home kettle, nebulizer, or other steamer to steam your tactical boots inside and out.
Stop steaming when your boots are warm enough to wear socks. Just make sure it’s not too hot to wear tactical boots.
After steaming, put them on and start walking. Steamed leather is easy to stretch and work.
Also, stretching the steamed boots with a boot stretcher has an immediate effect.
Combat boot maintenance tips
Combat boots are an investment and need proper care to make them last as long as possible. Here are some tips to keep your combat boots in good shape.
1.) Clean regularly
Combat boots can collect dirt, dust and other debris that can eventually damage the leather. Clean regularly with a soft brush and damp cloth to remove dirt and debris.
2.) Leather conditioning
Leather can dry out and crack over time, especially if exposed to extreme weather conditions. To prevent this, apply a good quality leather conditioner to your boots every few months.
3.) Store it properly
Store your combat boots in a cool, dry place when not in use. Do not expose to direct sunlight.
Conclusion
In conclusion, combat boots stretch with use, but the amount of stretch varies depending on various factors such as materials used, design, and how they are worn.
All types of boots can stretch slightly over time, but combat boots made of leather are more likely to stretch than suede or canvas.
Combat boots can be stretched in a number of ways, including wearing them around the house, using a shoe stretcher, or using stretching sprays. It is important to proceed with care and avoid overstretching the boot to avoid damaging or degrading the boot.
If you want your combat boots to last as long as possible, it’s important to take care of them by cleaning them frequently and maintaining the leather. With proper care, his combat boots will provide years of comfortable and fashionable wear.
