Cutting the Shank

Feet that are not overly flexible in the ankle or instep may not be able to sufficiently "break in" the shank of the shoe, and bending the shank may not be enough to allow it to conform to the shape of the foot.

To make the shank more flexible, the inside shank may be cut off near the heel where the sole of the foot bends. Using a utility knife, cut carefully across the shank, layer by layer, until the small heel section can be removed. The nail holding this section to the shoe should also be removed., To make the edge of the shank more comfortable, bevel-cut through the thickness of the shank so that it tapers towards the heel.