How to Relieve the Pleasure of Shrunken Tennis Shoes

Have you ever rushed and used a heated dryer on your tennis shoes, only to find them shrunk considerably? It can be a very frustrating experience, but there are several methods you can try to help unshrink them. In this article, we will explore effective ways to reduce the shrinkage and get your tennis shoes back to their original size.

1. Soak and Stretch Method

One of the most common methods to try is the Soak and Stretch Method. This technique involves soaking the shoes in warm water and then stretching them back to their original size. Here are the steps:

Materials Needed

Warm water A towel A shoe stretcher or your hands

Steps

Fill a basin with warm water (not hot) and soak the shoes for about 20-30 minutes.

Remove the shoes from the water and gently wring out the excess water.

Use your hands or a shoe stretcher to stretch the shoes back to their original size. Focus on areas that feel tight.

Stuff the shoes with a towel or newspaper to help maintain the shape as they dry.

Allow them to air dry at room temperature.

Tip: Always check the manufacturer's care instructions before using water on your shoes.

2. Conditioner or Leather Stretch Spray Method

If your tennis shoes are made of leather or synthetic materials, you can use a leather conditioner or a stretching spray. Here's how to proceed:

Materials Needed:
Leather conditioner or a leather stretching spray.

Steps

Spray the product on the tight areas of the shoes.

Follow the steps for the Soak and Stretch Method to stretch the shoes.

3. Wear Them Method

If the shrinkage is minimal, you can try wearing the shoes with thick socks. This can help them stretch out as you walk:

Start by wearing the shoes barefoot or with thin socks to check the comfort level. Gradually work up to thicker socks. If the shoes are only slightly shrunk, wear them for a few hours to help them regain their original size.

4. Heat Method (Caution)

If the shoe material is more pliable when heated, you can try the heat method. Here are the steps:

Materials Needed

A hairdryer Thick socks

Steps

Put on thick socks and wear the shoes.

Use a hairdryer on a low setting to heat the areas that feel tight as you flex your feet.

Move your feet around to help stretch the material while it's warm.

Tip: Be gentle during the stretching process to avoid damaging the material.

Note: While these methods may help, there is no guarantee that you will return them to their original size completely. It's important to be patient and careful during the process.

Additional Tips

Some users have tried a liquid product specifically designed to unshrink shoes, but the results were not as effective as expected. Another user suggested soaking the shoes and then allowing them to dry naturally, using a shoe stretcher during the process. Wearing the shoes when they are wet can also be a helpful method.

For canvas or nylon shoes, soaking them while wearing them, possibly barefoot initially, might help. However, if the rubber has also shrunk, it may not regain its original state. Again, it's important to consult the manufacturer's care instructions before attempting any of these methods.

Conclusion: By trying these different methods, you can increase the chances of reducing the shrinkage and making your tennis shoes comfortable again. Always be gentle and patient during the process to avoid further damage.