Boot Adjustments - Q&A

Why should I consider custom fitting?
If you have previously had fitting issues with any make or type of boot, then this method is relatively inexpensive compared with ‘made to measure’ and it can be done on most makes of leather boots, not just Altberg boots. Custom fitting is not so successful on fabric boots, because most fabrics do not mould like leather.

How is custom fitting carried out?
We use a standard boot and steam, then we can enlarge a small area to make room for a bunion or an unusual joint shape. Customers with a ½ size difference in feet can have one boot steamed and stretched half a size or one width fitting, using the appropriate width fitting last. Custom fitting can be used to increase the depth of the toe box - we steam and increase depth by using a special standard last. These are just some examples - full assessment is only possible by consultation with a senior bootfitter at our factory shop.

How long does it take?
Small alterations can be done within 2 hours. For more extreme alterations it is necessary to keep the boot on the stretching machines or on the stretching last for 24 hours or more. More than 50% of custom fitting is done successfully while the customer waits.

Does altering the boot have any adverse effect on wear or durability?
Yes - in more extreme cases, e.g. stretching the leather considerably to accommodate a bunion, this can put pressure on the waterproof membrane lining and also it will make the leather in that part of the boot thinner, so possibly less durable and less waterproof. If you have any doubts about this you should discuss with the senior bootfitter before going ahead, and if you continue to have doubts you should go no further - best to leave it for a day or two and think about it. We will never put any pressure on any customer to purchase boots, the decision must always be 100% that of the customer.

Is the alteration permanent?
Yes with leather boots - for less extreme changes or heel spurs, but there can be a small amount of ‘recovery’ on more extreme changes. We make our boots by steaming and pulling leather onto the last to the original boot shape. The method we use to steam and stretch is the same as we use to manufacture the boot. However the boot will change shape naturally to the foot over a period of time, and a small amount of change during wear is usual, you should allow for this.

Can custom fitting only be done on Altberg boots?
We can custom fit most makes of leather boots, and in our factory shop we also sell most good quality makes of boots.

What are the limitations of custom fitting?
We can't alter the shape of the toe box area - other than for toe depth. Altering toe shapes requires a modified last to be made and often patterns also have to be made. We can't alter the shape of the boot close to the midsole/sole edge. We can't shrink a boot to fit - we can only enlarge it. We can't alter the fit by more than ½ a size or one width fitting. We can't alter the boots flex or fit around the ankle or instep. Custom fitting is used mainly for small to medium fitting problems in the joint area or for heel spurs. For more serious fitting issues, made to measure is the next option, however waiting times for made to measure can be in excess of 12 months, we usually have a waiting list.

Motorcycle boots - custom fitting?
We offer a hand cut boot leg service for customers with very wide or very narrow calves. We can enlarge over the instep area to enable the boot to go on and off the foot more easily. We can alter as described earlier in certain areas of the foot.

Should I just turn up at the factory or should I make an appointment?
95% of our customers do not need an appointment, they can usually be fitted satisfactorily with no boot adjustment necessary. However, if you have had difficulty in the past getting boots (of any make) to fit, or if you have an identifiable fitting issue (e.g. heel spurs, bunions, etc.), then you should make an appointment to see one of our senior bootfitters at the factory, Monday to Friday. Do this by telephone - 01748 850615 / 01748 824717, we usually book appointments 7-10 days ahead.