Converse shoes, known for their iconic design and casual style, are a popular choice of footwear for many individuals. However, new or tight Converse shoes can sometimes be uncomfortable to wear, causing discomfort or even blisters.
Fortunately, stretching Converse shoes can be an effective solution to improve their fit and make them more comfortable to wear.
Whether you have just purchased a new pair of Converse shoes or want to break into a tight pair, this guide will provide you with practical tips on how to stretch Converse shoes safely and effectively. From using simple household items to employing specialized stretching techniques, we will explore various methods that can help you achieve a more comfortable fit for your Converse shoes, ensuring that you can strut in style without sacrificing comfort.
So, let’s dive into the world of stretching Converse shoes and get those kicks fitting just right!
Will Converse Shoes Expand?
The answer to this question is that it depends. Depending on the style, materials, and construction of your Converse shoes, they may expand when stretched. Generally speaking, most low-top canvas Converse shoes will stretch a bit after wearing them for a few days or weeks as the fabric relaxes and conforms to the shape of your foot.
On the other hand, classic Chuck Taylor All-Star high-tops with rubber soles are generally not able to be stretched much in length or width due to their sturdy design. That being said, even these classic shoes may still become more comfortable over time by molding slightly to the wearer’s feet through repeated wear.
If you’re looking for an extra roomy fit with your Converse shoes, canvas styles may be a better option than the classic rubber-soled high tops. However, regardless of style, it’s always important to select the correct size when purchasing your shoes to ensure maximum comfort!
Will a Shoe Stretcher Stretch Converse?
A shoe stretcher, also known as a shoe tree, is a tool used for stretching shoes to help them better conform to the shape of your feet and alleviate any discomfort in the fit. Generally, this tool is especially beneficial for those with wider feet or bunions.
For people who wear Converse all-star shoes, there are a few points to consider when using a shoe stretcher. Since the material of the canvas upper part of Converse shoes tends to be less forgiving than leather or other materials, it can be more challenging to stretch them out without damaging them. It’s important to note that not all shoe stretchers are designed for use on canvas shoes like Converse; therefore, it’s essential to read product descriptions carefully before making a purchase.
When using a shoe stretcher, it’s important to remember not to apply too much force when stretching the shoes. Gentle pressure should be applied in short bursts, and the shoe should be left to rest in between stretches. With this method, Converse shoes can be stretched out over time without any damage.
Additionally, if you are looking for more targeted stretching of certain areas of your feet, you may want to consider purchasing a shoe stretcher with bunion plugs or adjustable widths.
Depending on how much room for movement is needed in your shoes, then you might need to seek out an extra-wide version of the tool for maximum flexibility.
Overall, if done correctly and with care, a shoe stretcher can help make Converse shoes more comfortable and allow you to wear them for longer.
8 Methods on How to Stretch Converse Shoes
1. Wearing Them around the House
One of the best ways to stretch out your Converse shoes is to simply wear them around the house. This will help to loosen up the fabric and materials and make them more comfortable to wear. Just make sure that you don’t wear them for too long at a time, as this could cause the shoes to become misshapen.
To get the most out of this method, wear them for no more than a few hours at a time and make sure that you don’t do any strenuous activity while wearing them. However, if you find that this method isn’t quite working, there are other ways to stretch out your Converse shoes.
2. Wearing Them with Socks
Another great way to stretch out your Converse shoes is to wear them with a pair of socks. This will help to expand the shoes and make them more comfortable to wear. Just make sure that you don’t wear them for too long at a time, as this could cause the shoes to become misshapen. You can also try to put a pair of thick socks on your feet before you put the shoes on.
This will help to fill in any extra space that you might have and will make them fit more snugly. Once the shoes are on, you can then take off the socks so that they don’t cause any discomfort. To ensure that the shoes retain their shape, it is best to do this method for a short period of time.
3. Using a Shoe Stretcher
If you want to really stretch out your Converse shoes, then you can use a shoe stretcher. This is a tool that you insert into the shoe and then use to expand the material. This is a great option if you want to make sure that your shoes are stretched out evenly.
To use a shoe stretcher, start by taking out the laces and inserts in your shoes. Then insert the stretcher into each shoe and turn the handle to expand it until you feel pressure on the sides of your feet. Leave the stretcher in for several hours or overnight. Once you remove it, your shoes should feel more comfortable.
Remember to always use shoe stretchers with caution, as over-stretching them can damage the material or cause them to lose their shape. And if you have any doubts, always consult a professional!
4. Using Boiling Water
One unconventional method of stretching out your Converse shoes is to use boiling water. Simply pour some boiling water into a container and then dip your shoes in for a few seconds. Be careful not to leave them in for too long, as this could damage the material.
Once you’ve dipped them in, put them on and walk around until they’ve cooled down and dried off. This should help to stretch out the material and make them more comfortable. Just remember that this method is not recommended for leather or suede materials because the heat could cause permanent damage.
5. Freezing Them Overnight
Another unconventional method of stretching out your Converse shoes is to freeze them overnight. Simply place your shoes in a plastic bag and then put them in the freezer overnight. The cold temperature will help to expand the material and make them more comfortable to wear.
Just make sure that you don’t leave them in for too long, as this could damage the material. Once you take them out, place a towel over the shoes and use a hairdryer to heat up the material. This will help to soften them up and make them more comfortable to wear.
6. Using a Hair Dryer
One simple way of stretching out your Converse shoes is to use a hair dryer on them. Simply turn on the hair dryer and hold it close to the areas of the shoe that are tightest. The heat from the hair dryer will help to loosen up the fabric and materials and make them more comfortable to wear. Just be careful not to hold the hair dryer too close for too long, as this could damage the material.
7. Using an Iron
If you have an iron, then you can use it to stretch out your Converse shoes as well. Simply turn on the iron and hold it close to the areas of the shoe that are tightest while moving it back and forth slightly. The heat from the iron will help to loosen up the fabric and materials and make them more comfortable to wear
8. Stuffing Them With Socks
This method is similar to stuffing your shoes with paper towels, except you use socks instead! Simply stuff each shoe with a sock until it’s full, then leave overnight so they can take shape! In the morning, remove the socks, and voila! Your shoes should feel much roomier now!
Conclusion
Undoubtedly, Converse shoes are some of the most comfortable shoes for anyone, yet many people struggle with them being too tight. But with the right knowledge and determination, it is possible to stretch out these beloved shoes until they fit just right. By following these steps, your Converse should be fit for your feet in no time!
Therefore, if you feel those head-turning classic Converse look uncomfortable on your feet, know that with a little work and understanding of the correct materials and procedures—you can make it comfortable too! Now that you’ve learned how to stretch Converse Shoes , it’s time for you to get out there and give it a try!
