October 03, 2024
How to make shoes fit tighter
Written by: Chris Fry
Are loose shoes throwing off your stride? It happens. Whether you’ve snagged a pair that’s a tad too big or your favorite shoes have stretched out, finding the perfect fit is tricky.
At Kizik, we know that nothing ruins the pep in your step more than misfitting shoes. Don’t worry: Tightening your loose shoes is easier than you think. From quick hacks to more permanent fixes, read on to get the know-how to make your shoes fit snugly without losing comfort.
Why is it important to have properly fitting shoes?
Why all the fuss over perfectly fitting shoes? It turns out the wrong fit can be more than just a minor annoyance.
In fact, it can lead to serious problems:
Manage discomfort and injury
No one wants to end their day with sore feet or injuries. Shoes that fit correctly help distribute your weight evenly, minimizing pressure points and reducing the risk of blisters, calluses, and even structural foot problems.
Support your mobility
Ever tried moving quickly in shoes that constantly slip off? Not fun. Properly fitting shoes are the key to maintaining balance and mobility. They let you move naturally and easily while you stay active.
Maintain shoe longevity
When shoes fit well, they wear down evenly and tend to last longer. That means you’re getting the most out of your favorite pairs, saving money and hassle in the long run.
Encourage confidence
There’s a confidence that comes with great-fitting shoes. No slipping, tripping, or rubbing, equals walking anywhere feeling stable and secure.
How to tell if your shoes are too tight
- Persistent pinching: You feel constant pressure or pinching around the widest part of your foot or toes. This is a red flag that your shoes are too tight.
- Marks and indentations: After taking off your shoes, you see marks or indentations on your skin. This is a clear indicator that your shoes are not fitting correctly.
- Numbness or tingling: Feeling numbness or a tingling sensation in your toes during or after wearing shoes. Hint: Your shoes are too restrictive.
- Blisters and calluses: These are often caused by shoes rubbing against feet because they don't have enough room to move comfortably.
- Difficulty wiggling your toes: A good fit allows for toe movement. If you can’t wiggle your toes, your shoes are too tight.
If your shoes feel like a vice grip instead of a comfortable embrace, it's time to change things up.
What to do if your shoes are too tight
If your shoes feel too tight, there’s not much you can do to adjust the fit. Shoes are made to keep their shape; they’re not meant to stretch or shrink significantly. If discomfort is constant, they may not be right for your feet.
The bright side? it's the perfect chance to upgrade to something that feels as good as it looks. Here at Kizik, our slip-on shoes are designed for style and a genuinely comfortable fit. Thanks to our HandsFree Labs® technology, you can slip into a pair and enjoy perfect support and comfort all day. No fuss or hassle.
How to tell if your shoes are too loose
If your feet feel like they’re drowning in your shoes, they’re too loose. And loose shoes can be just as problematic as tight ones.
Here are some unmistakable signs your shoes are too roomy:
- Slipping heels: Your heel slips out of the shoe when walking.
- Excessive movement inside the shoe: Your feet shouldn’t slide forward or sideways when you walk. If they do, your shoes are too big.
- Bunching or folding of material: The material of your shoe bunches or folds when you wear them.
- Gaping at the sides: Noticeable gaping on the sides of your shoes while you're wearing them suggests they aren’t the right size.
- Need for extra lace tightening: You have to pull your laces unusually tight to get a good fit.
In a nutshell, if you’re shimmying around in your shoes and not feeling secure, they’re probably too loose.
What are some quick fixes to tighten your shoes?
Unlike shoes that pinch, if you've got some wiggle room, you have some tricks up your sleeve to tighten them up.
From a new pair that's too roomy to an old favorite that's all stretched out, here are some clever fixes to get a snugger fit:
Use thicker socks
Socks aren’t just for warmth. Thicker socks can snug up a loose shoe, adding an extra layer to fill the space—perfect for boots or casual sneakers. If you’re into sports or hitting the trails, beefier socks designed for specific activities won’t just fill out loose shoes. They’re functional in other ways, too, adding comfort and support.
Add insoles or inserts
Here's where you can dial in the comfort and fit. Insoles aren’t just for foot problems. In fact, they can be a game changer for oversized shoes.
Slip in a gel insole for a soft, cushiony feel or an orthotic if you need more structured support. Our Arch Form Insole could be your ticket for marathon days on your feet, supporting your arches and filling up excess space. Or take comfort to the max with our Super Squish Insole — it’s like walking on clouds but with all the cushioning your feet crave.
Try heel grips or pads
If you’re dealing with a heel that slips, heel grips are your new best friend. Stick them to the back of your shoes, and voila: No more slipping. They're a quick, inexpensive fix that can make a big difference in how your shoes fit and feel.
Use tongue pads
Most people ignore the shoe tongue until it slides around. A tongue pad, a sticky cushion on the underside, pushes your foot into the heel, tightening the fit and preventing sliding.
Can lacing techniques improve shoe fit?
Believe it or not, the way you lace your shoes can make them fit better, especially if they're a little on the loose side.
Here are some lacing techniques that can tighten things up:
Criss-cross lacing
This classic method is straightforward and effective for adjusting overall tightness. Start at the bottom and alternate sides, pulling each lace snugly for a uniform fit.
Lock lacing
Stop heel slippage in its tracks! Lace-up as usual until the second-to-last eyelet. Then, loop the lace through the top eyelet on the same side. Cross the ends, thread through the opposite loop, and pull tight.
Don’t cross the laces over problematic areas where the shoe feels particularly tight. This creates a small "gap" in the lacing to relieve pressure.
Lacing up can help, but if you're tired of adjusting and readjusting, switch to a pair of Kiziks. Our hands-free slip-on shoes ditch the hassle and feature a dynamic filament system that flexes to match your foot's natural movement. It’s snug without the struggle.
How to keep your shoes in top shape
Whether you're adjusting for a loose or snug fit, taking care of your shoes is crucial to maintaining their condition and comfort.
Consider these tips to keep your kicks looking and feeling great:
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Clean regularly: Don’t let dirt and grime settle. Wipe down your shoes with a damp cloth after each wear, or use a soft brush for tougher stains.
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Dry properly: Avoid direct heat; let your shoes dry naturally instead. Stuffing them with newspaper absorbs moisture and helps maintain their shape.
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Rotate your footwear: Wearing the same pair every day accelerates wear. Rotating between shoes allows them to rest and reduces strain.
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Store correctly: Keep your shoes in a cool, dry place. If possible, use a shoe tree to help them retain their shape and prevent creases.
- Protect and condition: Use waterproofing sprays for leather and other materials to protect from water and stains. Conditioning leather shoes keeps them supple and prevents cracking.
The bottom line
How can you make shoes fit tighter? Try thicker socks, cushioned insoles, heel grips, or a lacing tweak. These quick fixes can turn an awkward stride into a perfect step.
At Kizik, we get that comfort and convenience are everything. Why mess with laces when you can step right into innovation? Check out our lineup of hands-free shoes, built to fit like a dream from the second you slip them
Step into Kizik—— where your next step is always a breeze.
Sources:
Why Good Footwear is So Important for Your Health | CHP
Common Foot Problems, Pain & Causes | Penn Medicine