Breaking in a pair of new flip flops can be a tricky endeavor. With just a few simple steps, however, your new shoes can go from the stiffness of never-before worn to the coziness of an old friend. Knowing how to break in your flip flops correctly ensures them a long life and your feet the utmost comfort.
Why Breaking in Flip Flops is Important
Breaking in your flip flops is an essential step that often gets overlooked. Not only does it make them more comfortable for you, but it also preserves their life and prevents them from potentially wearing out too soon. The softer, more flexible the material, the less likely it will be to crack, tear or even lose its shape.
Flip flops are designed to mould to your feet, giving you a snug and secure fit. Haste can lead to discomfort, as they take time to adjust to the shape and size of your foot. The more often you wear them and the longer you wear them each time, the sooner they become accustomed to you.
It is important to remember that breaking in your flip flops is a gradual process. Start by wearing them for short periods of time and gradually increase the duration as they become more comfortable. This will help to ensure that your flip flops last longer and provide you with the best possible fit.
What You’ll Need Before You Begin
- Comfortable socks
- A basin of warm water
- A tennis ball
In addition to the items listed above, you’ll also need a towel to dry your feet after the foot soak. Make sure to use a towel that is soft and absorbent to ensure your feet are dried properly.
Step 1: Wear Around the House
Before you start any of the other steps for breaking in your new flip flops, wear them around the house for short periods of time. Start by wearing them with comfortable socks for around 30 minutes to an hour. This will help loosen up the straps and let the material pliable, allowing you to move on to the next step.
Once you have worn them around the house for a while, you can start to wear them without socks. This will help the material to mold to the shape of your feet and make them more comfortable. Make sure to wear them for short periods of time and take breaks in between to give your feet a rest. This will help to ensure that your feet don’t become too sore or uncomfortable.
Step 2: Soak in Warm Water
Fill a basin with warm water and put your flip flops into it for about five minutes. This will make the material softer and more pliable so it can better mould to your feet. Once they’re done soaking, take a towel and squeeze out any excess water before lying them flat to dry.
It’s important to make sure the water is not too hot, as this can damage the material. Additionally, you may want to add a few drops of mild detergent to the water to help remove any dirt or grime that may be stuck on the flip flops.
Step 3: Stretch with a Tennis Ball
Grab a tennis ball and start rolling it around under your feet in your flip flops. This method is great for breaking in flip flops and sandals, as it helps stretch out the straps even further. You can even manipulate which areas are stretched by applying pressure or pinching different parts of the fabric.
Step 4: Wear Outside
Once you’ve completed these first three steps, take your shoes outdoors for a test run. Wear them for as long as possible with comfortable socks as you walk around your neighborhood or even for a short jaunt around the block. After about half an hour, you should have a better sense of how comfortable they’ll be and how much longer they’ll last.
Tips for Making Your Flip Flops Last Longer
- Make sure to take your shoes off after an hour of regular wear and allow them to air out
- Every now and then, stuff newspaper into the straps or use a leather conditioner to keep them soft and pliable
- If you’re going out for an extended period of time, bring a spare pair of socks in case your feet start getting sweaty
- Avoid wearing them on rough surfaces such as asphalt or gravel, as these can cause damage to the straps
- Occasionally treat them with spray-on protectant or waterproofing spray to prevent wear and tear
Conclusion
Knowing how to break in your flip flops makes them much more comfortable right away and helps to preserve their life. With a few simple steps and the right materials, you can transition your existing pair of flip flops into being your new favorite go-to shoes. If you follow these steps correctly, you’ll be enjoying your flip flop’s snug fit and long-lasting life in no time!
