Quick answer: Wear new leather sandals indoors for an hour or two at a time for the first week, soften stiff straps with a little leather conditioner, and protect hot spots with a bandage until the leather molds to your foot.
Start indoors
Short wears let straps soften gradually. Flat Greek styles like our Athena Greek sandals usually settle in within a week.
Soften the leather
Rub a thin layer of conditioner into the inside of stiff straps and flex them by hand.
Know when to adjust
If a strap still digs in after a week, a cobbler can stretch or re-position it.
Frequently asked questions
Should I wet leather sandals to break them in?
No — water can stain and stiffen leather.
How long does break-in take?
Usually one to two weeks of short wears.
Shop the store: women's sandals · men's sandals · mules & clogs · wood furniture. Free U.S. shipping on orders $100+, 30-day returns on unworn shoes.