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There’s nothing more frustrating than purchasing shoes only to realize they’re just a little too tight. You could spend weeks trying to wear them in or use a handy shoe stretcher for a quick and easy solution. These devices are designed to expand different types of shoes and are made typically made of wood, metal, solid plastic or a combination of all three. Some will only expand the width of the shoe, but two-way stretchers will expand both the width and the length.
Ahead, we compiled some of the best options you can buy in every category for an ultra-comfortable, lived-in feel.
Fox Valley Traders Deluxe Shoe Stretcher Set
Crafted from a combination of durable wood and steel, this stretcher set should last. Each unit is able to stretch both the length and width of shoes and features four pressure-relief pods that target often tight areas that can cause blisters, bunions, and corns. The large size is made to fit up to a men’s size 14 shoe.
StyledRight Two-Way Shoe Stretcher
Available as a set of two, these plastic and steel two-way stretchers can also fit up to a men’s size 14 shoe. They come with five accessories per stretcher, plus a storage bag for travel. The accessories allow you to add extra room or adjust the fit for bunions, high arches or unique foot shapes.
XYH Shoe Stretcher
These cute and sturdy plastic styles feature metal, heart-shaped handles that rotate so you can both widen and lengthen the fit of your shoes. You get two shoe stretchers, eight bunion plugs, two heightening pads and a drawstring carrying bag. The stretchers work for both men’s and women’s shoes and comes in four colors, too.
StoreSmith Men’s Shoe Stretchers
Another option with wood feet, these two-way stretchers also come with a set of eight plastic pressure relief pods to use in areas where you have bunions or corns. It’s made for men’s shoe sizes nine to 14.
Formé High-Heel Shoe Stretchers
Designed specifically for high heels, but able to work in flats and and booties too, this tool features a pivoting design that works to stretch materials including leather, vegan leather and vinyl. To stretch your shoes, you simply insert them and expand the wings in the toe area. To shape shoes, insert them and push them into the back of the heel to prevent wrinkles.
Ktaxon Adjustable Men’s Shoe Stretchers
To use these wood stretchers, you insert them and turn the nob at the ankle to begin expanding your shoes. It’s recommended that you leave them in shoes overnight for the best results.
FootFitter Premium Professional Boot Width Stretcher
Made to use on boots, this extended device uses a wooden toe block that expands the width of shoes as you turn the handle. It also comes with three pressure plugs and is available in seven sizes.
Houndsbay Bulldog Shoe Stretcher
Also coming in a variety of sizes, this heavy-duty option stretches shoes both ways and includes six bunion plugs. Simply turn the metal handle to use.