Is there a way to make slightly large shoes fit?

I got a pair of loafers which I really like, unfortunately they are like 1/2+ above my size. Is there a way I can make them fit?
10 Replies
Elvander
Elvander3w ago
Thick socks, two pairs of socks, insole, moleskin, heel pads or tongue pads. Loafers can be unforgiving though you can’t beat a well fitting pair.
selecttool
selecttoolOP3w ago
thanks, I'll try tongue pads! these are my first pair of loafers and I doubt I'll find a similar deal on a smaller one so I want to try and make the current pair usable also what do you mean by unforgiving?
Elvander
Elvander3w ago
With shoes you can just lace tighter to get a snugger fit. Also loafers fit can change over time as you break them in so what works now might not work long term as the leather wears in. Usually you want them snug so they break in and still fit.
selecttool
selecttoolOP3w ago
does breaking in apply to second hand loafers? or are they already broken in? I don't know if I should go half a size or a full size down for the next pair
Elvander
Elvander3w ago
If there’s a reasonable amount of wear they should be broken in already
epistrophy
epistrophy3w ago
tongue pads are pretty thin, they only make a small difference though they do help. For a half size too big + no option to lace tighter you’ll probably need several of elvander’s suggestions all at once
selecttool
selecttoolOP3w ago
I'll try but honestly I don't know if I should just bite the bullet and sell them also I don't know if I need half a size or a full size down
Elvander
Elvander3w ago
There’s no shortcuts to know unfortunately. The shape / fit / last of loafers are all different so there’s no universal rule. Trying them on is the only sure way.
raisinpie
raisinpie3w ago
the trick to blind buying the right loafer size is making an offering to the leather gods
selecttool
selecttoolOP3w ago
if the next pair is too tight i will be a willing sacrifice

Did you find this page helpful?