There’s nothing quite like putting on a brand-new pair of cleats—until the blisters set in. New cleats can enhance your game, but only if they’re properly broken in. Avoid the pain (and the bad advice) with these tried-and-true tips on what truly works—and what definitely doesn’t.
✅ What Works When Breaking in Cleats
1. Wear Them Around the House 🏡
Before hitting the field, lace up your cleats and wear them indoors for short periods. Walk around, do some stretches, or even jog lightly in place to begin molding them to your feet.
2. Wear Double Socks 🧦
Wearing double socks during a game helps your cleats stretch and mold to your feet more effectively. In contrast to thick socks, double socks create an extra layer of cushion between your feet and the shoe, thereby decreasing the risk of blisters. Once your cleats feel broken in, you can remove one pair of socks mid-game, helping your feet feel agile, lighter, and friction-free.
3. Gradual Practice Sessions ⚽
Ease into it. Begin by wearing your cleats during warm-ups or short drills. Gradually increase the duration in each session until your feet adjust to the fit and feel.
4. Try the Hairdryer Trick 💨
Wear double socks, lace up the cleats, and gently apply heat with a hairdryer while flexing your feet. This can help soften the material and mold it to your shape—but avoid excessive heat!
5. Use a Leather Conditioner (for leather cleats only) 🧴
If you’re using leather cleats, a bit of conditioner can soften the material and decrease stiffness. Be sure to choose a product designed for athletic footwear.
❌ What Doesn’t Work (and Can Hurt You)
1. Soaking Them in Water 💦
Some people swear by the “hot water soak” trick, but it often results in misshapen cleats or water-damaged insoles. It’s simply not worth it.
2. Playing a Full Game Right Away 😩
Your feet need time to adjust. Going full throttle in new cleats on day one leads to instant regret. Avoid this painful rookie mistake.
3. Cutting or Reshaping Your Cleats ✂️
Don't attempt to “customize” your cleats with scissors or knives. It will likely void the warranty and damage the shoes. If the fit is significantly off, it’s better to exchange them.
4. Ignoring Hot Spots 🔥
That rubbing you feel early on? It won’t go away by itself. Use moleskin, blister pads, or preventative tape to safeguard your feet while breaking in your cleats.
👟 Quick Summary Takeaway
- DO: Break your cleats in before games, wear double socks that you can remove, wear your cleats gradually as you break them in, use a hairdryer to soften the cleats, use a leather conditioner
- DON'T: Soak your cleats in water, wear them in a complete game too soon, cut or reshape your cleats, assume blister-causing spots will go away on their own
Bottom line: Break in your cleats with patience and care, and your feet (and performance) will thank you. No shortcuts—only smart steps!
At PTJ Shoes, we aim to empower players of all levels to embrace their individuality and play with confidence. We take pride in being a brand rooted in passion, guided by family values, and created for the next generation of game-changers. Check out our elite collection of cleats here.
Share:
What is the Youth Player Development Pathway to the FIFA World Cup?
Role Models On and Off the Field