Did you know…
Breaking in new rugby boots not only ensures a comfortable fit, but reduces the risk of blisters during play.
Many players make the mistake of wearing their new rugby boots out on the pitch for the very first time, but we advise you to refrain from doing so until your boots are ready.
“Why?”
As new rugby boots are made towards a ‘standard’ factory shoe fitting, it can take time for your boots to mould to your feet. To prevent sore feet in the future we recommend you try the following techniques:
#1. Wear them around the house
One of the best methods to ensure your boots perform well on the day of your big match is to wear them around the house for a short period as it will allow your boots to soften up and mold to your feet more easily.
Note:
For optimal results, we recommend wearing them for at least 30 minutes a day until they start to feel more comfortable!
#2. Gradually Increase Usage
Once you have tested walking around the house in your new boots and they start feeling more comfortable, start wearing them for short training sessions and drills down at the local park/pitch.
However, be cautious about jumping straight into intense matches, long training sessions, or full 90-minute games. Your feet need time to adjust.
Trust us, it’s worth the wait!
#3. Wear them during practice sessions
By this point, your new boots should be more accustomed to your feet, and it’s time to incorporate them into your regular practice sessions.
Not only will this allow you to further break them in, but it will also give you a taste of their performance on the field.
#4. Wear appropriate socks
We cannot stress this enough!
Many players suffer from blisters and sores due to not wearing the appropriate socks.
The solution? Grip Socks!
Grip Socks provide extra padding and reduce friction inside the boot by utilizing rubber elements at the base of the foot to prevent slippage, offering greater traction and stability for the full 80.
But that’s not all…
Grip Socks, such as the TapeDesign socks below, combine cotton, nylon, spandex, and polyester to ensure exceptional comfort and flexibility. They adapt ergonomically to the player’s foot, helping prevent knee and ankle injuries.
#5. Wet your boots with a damp cloth
One of the oldest tricks in the book, wetting your boots with a damp cloth is perfect for softening the material and accelerating the breaking-in process.
Before putting them on, dampen the boots with warm water, but avoid submerging them entirely (or using boiling hot water), as this may damage the boot’s fibres.
After all, the last thing you need is for your boots to crack and tear before your next big match!
#6. Focus on problem areas
If you find that your boots are comfortable in some areas but highly uncomfortable in others, you’re not alone…
If certain areas cause discomfort around key pressure points, you can try wearing thicker socks like the TapeDesign Grip Socks mentioned earlier or use blister pads to alleviate the pain.
Alternatively, you can gently stretch those areas using your hands or apply a leather conditioner to soften the material.
#7. Be Patient!
Breaking in new boots takes time, and it’s important to be patient and give your feet ample time to adjust.
Although you may be eager to hit the pitch in your new boots right away, we recommend not rushing the process. Doing so could lead to injury and delay the boots from fitting comfortably!
Remember, each person’s feet are unique, so don’t be disheartened if it takes a few days to fully feel the benefits of your new boots. It’s all about trial and error and finding out which method is best for you!
Did you find this guide helpful? Let us know in the comments which method worked best for you. We’d love to hear from you! In the meantime, be sure to stay in the loop with the latest Rugby News, Guides & Boot drops at The Full 80.