How to Break in Leather Boots

WHEN PERFECTLY SHAPED TO your foot, a well-worn leather boot can skyrocket to the top of your most comfortable boot list. Now, a leather boot that has not been properly broken in that's a different story, and one without as comfortable an ending.

- Tim Newcomb

But getting that premium level of comfort requires patience. Lots of patience.

Boot makers want you to have some level of comfort right out of the box, but working toward buttery smooth, broken-in leather requires time. "We always suggest that you plan for a certain amount of break-in time before and during your first few weeks of wear," says Kyle Wanke, Danner product line manager. "To begin the process of molding the boots to your feet, wear them around the house or on shorter outings for a couple of hours a day for a week or more. Before you know it, your Danner boots will begin to mold to your feet and feel extra comfortable."