You’ve probably heard the term “shaft height” when it comes to boots. But what does it all mean, and why should you be concerned?
In this guide, we will explain the significance of boot shaft height and how to find the best fit of boots for your style, comfort, and practical needs.
What Does Shaft Height Mean In Boots?
Let’s start with the basics: what exactly is a boot shaft and shaft height?
The boot shaft is the part of the boot that goes from the sole to your knee or calf and covers the lower portion of your leg.
Shaft height refers to the length of the boot’s upper part that covers your leg. It’s the section from the sole to the top, and its dimensions can have a big impact on how your boots look and feel when you wear them.
What Are The Shaft Height of Different Boots?
Shaft heights vary between boot types, and each serves a specific purpose as follows:
Ankle Boots (3-8 inches): they are the shortest and usually end at or slightly above your ankle bone. They’re versatile, perfect for everyday wear, and simple to match with various outfits.
Mid-Calf Boots (9–13.5 inches): these boots come up to the middle of your calf. They’re fashionable, provide extra coverage and protection to your lower legs, and look great with skirts, dresses, or skinny jeans.
Knee-High Boots (13.5 inches and above): these are the boots that extend just below the kneecap. They wrap up the whole part of your calf and are ideal for cooler weather.
Over-the-Knee Boots ( 20–24 inches ): These boots go above your knee and may cover half of your thigh. They’re a statement piece, adding flair to your outfit.
Does Boot Shaft Height Matter?
Yes, it does. Shaft height can have an impact not only on your style but also on your comfort and functionality.
It serves the following important purposes:
Protection: A higher boot shaft can protect your legs from hazards that you may encounter while walking, working, or traveling in dangerous conditions.
Support: The boot shaft helps provide support and stability to your foot and ankle. It assists in the prevention of excessive movement, foot injuries, or loss of balance, particularly in activities or occupations that require navigating uneven surfaces.
Style Design: The shaft height, circumference, and design of the shaft can all have a significant impact on the overall look and style of the boots.
Comfort: The boot shaft has an impact on the wearer’s long-term comfort. To ensure a comfortable experience, you should find a boot shaft that fits your body well.
How to Measure Shaft Height?
Here’s a quick guide to accurately measuring shaft height:
Step 1: Select Your Footwear:
Choose which boots or shoes you want to measure. Put on any socks or leggings you want to wear with them, as this may affect the measurement.
Step 2: Get Ready to Measure:
Sit on a chair or stool if necessary to reach the top of the boot shaft comfortably. This is especially important for taller boots.
Step 3: Begin Measuring:
- Place your feet flat on the floor.
- Place one end of the measuring tape on the sole of the boot. Make sure it’s snug against the sole of the boot.
- Pull the measuring tape gently up the back of the boot shaft. Keep it as straight as possible.
- Continue measuring down the back of the boot shaft until you reach the desired top point.
- Take note of the measurement in inches or centimeters.
You now know how tall your boot’s shaft is.
How to Stretch a Boot Shaft? 6 Effective Ways
So you’ve got a great pair of boots, but they’re a little tight around the calf. Don’t worry; there are some simple ways to stretch your boot shaft and make it more comfortable.
1. Use Boot Stretchers
Boot stretchers are tools that can be used to extend the shaft of your boots, and it is very easy to use:
- Insert the boot stretcher into your boot, making sure it’s the desired width.
- Turn the handle gradually to expand the stretcher while applying gentle pressure to the shaft.
- Allow the stretcher to remain in the boot for at least a day to allow the leather to relax and stretch.
2. Use Cold Method
You can try a few DIY methods at home, but they may not be as effective as professional tools. One popular method is to fill a plastic bag with water. Yes, you hear it right!
Here is what you need to do:
- Fill a plastic bag halfway with water, but remember not to overfill it.
- Insert the bag into your boot, making sure it reaches the restricted area.
- Place the boots and bags in the freezer. When the water freezes, it expands and gently stretches the leather.
- Take the boots out of the freezer and allow the ice to melt before removing the bags.
While this method is useful for minor stretching, be careful not to overstretch or damage your boots.
3. Use Hot Method
Proper temperature can sometimes work well to stretch boots. You can try to use a hair dryer to apply heat to the tight areas of the boot shaft while flexing your calves and ankles. Keep the boots on until they cool down, then repeat the process as necessary.
4. Putting on Thick Socks
Wearing thick socks can sometimes naturally stretch the shaft of your boots. The extra weight will put pressure on the leather, allowing it to relax over time. However, be patient as this method may take some time.
5. Boot Stretching Sprays
There are boot stretching sprays on the market that can help soften and pliable the leather. Apply it to the inside and outside of the boot shaft according to the instructions, and then wear the boots while they are still damp to allow the boots to stretch.
6. Ask For Professional Help
If you don’t feel confident stretching your boots yourself, take them to a professional cobbler or shoemaker. They have the knowledge and tools to stretch your boot shafts safely and without causing damage.
Conclusion
Choosing the proper boot shaft height isn’t just about looks; it’s also about comfort and functionality.
The shaft height can drastically impact your overall look. You can walk out in style and confidence if you understand the different shaft heights and how to measure for the perfect fit.
We hope that you already know what the boot shaft is and how to measure it to find your ideal fit.
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