There’s nothing quite like the excitement of unboxing a brand-new pair of football or rugby boots. If your child is starting the new season with fresh footwear (big thanks to the parents who make that happen!) it’s natural they’ll want to show them off straight away.
But here’s the reality: turning up to training in shiny new boots might look impressive at kick-off but hobbling around at half-time with blisters? Not so cool. Breaking in boots properly makes all the difference – keeping your child comfortable, confident and focused on their game.
We’ve asked our network of grassroots coaches, parents and players for their top tried-and-tested tips to help your kids break in boots safely and effectively.
1. Get the right size now
It might be tempting to buy a size up (just like the oversized school blazer trick) but boots don’t work that way. They need to fit snugly in the moment. Loose boots cause rubbing, blisters and poor performance.
Money-saving tip: Many grassroots clubs now run boot recycling schemes where parents donate outgrown boots. You can often pick up a quality pair second-hand for training, saving new ones for match day.
2. Wear them around the house
Encourage your child to put on their match socks (we’re big fans of Defiance grip socks for extra comfort) and walk about at home. If indoors isn’t an option, head to the garden or local park.
Aim for an hour over 3–4 days before they hit the pitch. It might feel a bit daft but it works wonders.
3. Try the warm water softening trick
A classic tip:
- Dip a cloth in warm (not hot) water
- Wring it out and gently rub the uppers of the boots
- Pop the boots on with socks while they’re still slightly damp
- Move about for 10–15 minutes to help them mould to the foot
Think of it like breaking in a gum shield - but for their feet. Just be sure the water isn’t too hot as it can damage the glue and materials.
4. Protect the hot spots early
Blisters are the biggest confidence killer. Apply petroleum jelly (vaseline) or anti-friction balm to heels, toes and any known trouble spots before each session. Prevention is far better than cure.
5. Blister tape is a parent’s secret weapon
A strip of blister tape on the back of the heel or sides of the foot can save a training session. Keep a roll handy in the car boot (along with spare plasters) - you’ll thank yourself later.
6. Try the runner’s knot lacing trick
This clever lacing hack creates extra ankle support and reduces slippage:
- Lace up to the second-to-last holes
- Instead of crossing over, thread the lace straight up into the final hole on the same side
- Create a loop and pull the lace through
Several of our Laceeze ambassadors swear by it for a secure blister-free fit.
7. Alternate between old and new boots
At training, let your child warm up in their old pair then switch to the new ones halfway through. This eases the pressure on their feet while still breaking in the boots under real match conditions.
8. Keep their shape off the pitch
Boots lose shape if left collapsed at the bottom of a kit bag. Stuff them with Defiance Fresh Pouches to absorb moisture, keep them structured and fight off odours. They’ll smell lemon-fresh even before the dreaded pong sets in!
9. Dry them slowly and safely
Wet boots? Let them air dry naturally. Radiators, airing cupboards and hairdryers will crack leather or warp synthetic materials. For leather boots, apply a gentle conditioner after drying to keep them soft and durable.
10. Avoid concrete early on
Fresh studs wear down quickly on hard surfaces. Keep them on grass or artificial turf until they’ve properly moulded to your child’s feet. Save the school playground for trainers.
Hopefully you’ll find these 10 top tips for breaking in boots useful. Have your own tried-and-tested trick? We’d love to hear it! Drop us a message and we’ll add your advice to our guide.
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