Breaking in cavalry boots (re-enactment outfit)

[Bungalo Bill]

I bought a pair of cavalry boots on-line to go with one of my outfits. They fit fine from heel to toe, but the width is way too wide, something like EEE I reckon, while I normally wear a D.  I can get by wearing heavy socks and using a sole pad, and then tightening my spur straps, but I would like to make them fit better.

 

I have been told that soaking the boots in water thoroughly and then wearing them for a whole day while they dry out will make them fit, but that seems a bit extreme.  Has anybody else tried this?

 

Can't return 'em. My fault for being in a hurry to buy them.

 

 

 

[Ricochet]

I hadn't intentionally (key word) tried it, but yes it does work to a degree and they aren't very comfortable to wear while you are doing it. Kinda rough on the feet. I don't know what you have invested in them but it might be better to find someone with the EEE width and sell or trade them.

[Unkle Sherman]

A a former shoe and boot dawg (salesman),wetting will shrink 'em fer a while.
When dried out, leather has a habit of stretching back out...

[Thomas Tonka]

Hey Bungalo Bill,

Use to be Cavalry boots came without left and right, both the same.
I did moisten them and wore them dry after a while they took shape of left and right.
The broad square toes take getting use to after wearing conventional round toed cowboy boots.
The up side is when you are on a winter campaign tactical and are sleeping on arms ready for an instant call to stand to horse or mount on the fly. The extra room is great for heavy wool socks and warm feet with the extra room, while sleeping with your boots on.
Best regards,
Tommy T