How to Wear Shoes That Are Too Big

Last updated November 10, 2024

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You find the ideal shoes and attempt to wear them, but they are simply too large.

Fortunately, whether they’re large in a certain part or simply massive all over, there are numerous tips you can employ to wear a very big shoe without appearing ridiculous.

In this comprehensive guide, we will be sharing tips on how to wear shoes that are too big.

1. Utilize Heel Strips

An ideal choice for "partial" padding similar to insoles consists of narrow padding strips often referred to as "heel strips".

True to their name, these sticky pads are frequently utilized to cushion shoes with painful, pinching heels.

Also, their strip-shaped design allows you to place them almost anywhere inside your shoe to fill extra space.

They are ideal for a wide range of footwear, particularly snug-fitting high heels and peculiar pairs of shoes that are hard to fit otherwise.

Test these out before wearing them. Also, be mindful that some people have reported blisters after use.

2. Put on Heavy Socks

If your shoe is too big, wearing heavy and thick socks can assist in achieving a better fit.

In fact, this is likely the simplest way to wear large shoes.

So go ahead and swap delicate/slim dress socks for crew socks.

If it's a chilly season or the weather is cold, you might even layer several socks for extra warmth.

However, be aware that though this may extend the shoe's length, the width could also feel tighter.

Therefore, this method is effective for athletic footwear but not for dress shoes.

Also, if the weather is warm, steer clear of this method because it will cause discomfort.

3. Reduce Shoe Size with Water

Some specific types of big shoes can be worn after being shrunk with water.

However, prior to trying this trick for oversized shoes, be cautious as it might also harm your footwear, particularly if they are leather.

Therefore, ensure you verify before attempting the larger shoe size trick.

For this, you will require liquid, a spray container or vacant pail, your footwear, and a blow dryer.

To moisten a shoe; for leather, apply a spray, and for canvas, soak it in water for one hour.

Then, you can either use a hairdryer to dry it or leave it to dry under the sun.

When dry, give the shoe a try. Immediately it fits, make sure to properly polish and condition it, particularly if it’s leather.

Note that wearing leather shoes and allowing them to dry afterward results in a better fitting experience, making these shoes fit more snugly, despite being too large.

4. Utilize Shoe Fillers

Nowadays, there is a diverse range of fillers for shoes made from silicone, polyurethane, and more that can be placed in your toe box.

Doing this reduces a shoe's length by several centimeters.

Combining heel liners with fillers transforms your larger shoe size trick into a highly comfortable solution.

They are compatible with all types of footwear and are the most budget-friendly trick for shoes that are too big.

5. Try Out Stuffing

If socks or insoles aren't available and you require a fast fix, toilet paper, tissue paper, cotton, or thin rags, can be wrapped around your foot or at your toe area to ensure your shoe fits snugly.

This will also prevent the foot from sliding forth and back.

Stuffing remains a common trick for oversized boots and also function well with closed-toe heels and flats.

However, refrain from overeating before extended walks or workouts.

6. Insert Elastic Band

You can either attempt this yourself if you have sewing skills or seek assistance from a skilled professional.

Sewing elastic bands in the rear of your shoe will assist in securing the entire footwear closer to your foot if it's overly spacious.

To sew elastic to your sides, a durable elastic is required.

Note that combining a shoe-shrinking hack with an elastic hack can help with oversized shoes.

This can work well as an oversized sneaker trick and as an oversized boot hack, particularly in ankle-length boots.

7. Experiment with Insoles

While we typically utilize insoles to address foot problems or discomfort within the shoes, they also prove to be quite useful for managing shoes that are too big.

There are different kinds of shoe insoles that serve as an economical choice.

You can utilize two to three foam insoles to get a more snug fit.

Test the insole with larger shoes before buying, to ensure a proper fit.

Formal shoes, open-toe shoes, and heeled footwear in a larger size fit comfortably with insoles.

8. Utilize Footpad Balls

These pads under the feet are large like insoles and significantly more pleasant to wear.

Additionally, they are more affordable and easily accessible.

They are great for accommodating larger flats and sized heels.

As these come in multiple colors, they can be effortlessly matched with the shade of your larger-sized shoe.

9. Visit a Cobbler

If nothing else works, you can consult a professional cobbler and the internet will simplify their discovery somewhat.

For example, a query on Google ought to provide several results in a large city.

Note that the costs of cobbler services can be high, so it's best to save them for your shoes that truly deserve it.

Extra Tips on How to Wear Shoes That Are Too Big

• Remember that regardless of any alterations made to the interior of shoes, their external size will remain fairly consistent.
• Always maintain your chest and head elevated and facing ahead - gently retract your shoulders to adjust your arm position.
• Avoid the risk of injury and pain for the sake of wearing big shoes.
• When wearing a pair of shoes that is too big, it's essential to have proper posture to adjust for your "larger" feet.
• Strive to keep your posture while wearing shoes that are too big.
• While walking, attempt to gently engage your glutes and abs - these assisting muscles aid in maintaining your spine's straightness and support. 
• If you allow your feet to drag, you will snag your shoe's toe on the floor and this may result in stumbling or tripping, so remain mindful of this.
• Swap out any shoe that is noticeably larger than what you typically wear - this might appear evident, but it's worth noting.
• Avoid wearing ill-fitting shoes for extended periods of walking. Regardless of the methods you're employing for your oversized shoes, very few options offer the opportunity of a well-fitting shoe.
• Shoes that are too big typically are bigger than what you normally wear, this implies that lifting your feet off the floor while walking is especially crucial.
• Make an effort to steer clear of wearing shoes that are too big for extended outings such as hikes and day trips. In these situations, it’s advisable to opt for a better-fitting pair of shoes.

Conclusion

In this article, you have an extensive range of methods for wearing over big shoes and you can use them according to your foot comfort.

These are the least expensive and most effective hacks for wearing any shoe that is too big.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Can I Make Large Shoes to Fit a Small Feet?

To fit larger shoes on smaller feet, utilize heel grips and cushioned insoles for enhanced comfort and to avoid slipping.

Putting on thicker socks may also aid in occupying additional space.

Then, think about incorporating gel or foam shoe fillers and toe inserts to ensure a snug fit, especially in your toe section for enhanced support.

Can Oversized Shoes Lead to Foot Discomfort?

Indeed, wearing oversized shoes may result in foot pain due to friction, blisters, and instability.

When shoes are not properly fitted, the feet might slip, putting stress on joints and muscles.

To enhance comfort, choose shoes that conform snugly to the shape of your foot.