We all know how important it is to have the right fit for any item of clothing, but the challenge can become even greater when we need to shop for a pair of shoes. Hey Dudes are known for being stylish and comfortable but unfortunately, they do not come in sizes that cater to everyone’s needs and desires.
That’s why so many people turn to shrink their Hey Dude shoes as an alternative; with this trick, you can take your already stylish shoes and make them just the right way! We’ll walk you through everything you need to know about safely shrinking your favorite pair of Hey Dudes kicks.
Let’s get started!
Preparation:
Remove any detachable insoles and laces. Clean the shoes using a mild detergent or shoe cleaner, ensuring there’s no dirt, which can cause uneven shrinking or staining.
Fill A Basin With Warm Water:
The water should be warm to the touch but not scalding, to prevent fabric damage or excessive color bleeding.
Soak The Shoes:
Fully immerse your Hey Dudes in the water for about 20-30 minutes, ensuring the fabric is thoroughly soaked.
Gently Remove Excess Water:
Press down on the shoes to squeeze out water. Avoid twisting, which might distort their shape.
Shape And Dry:
Return any insoles to the shoes and reshape them to their original form. Let them air dry in a location with good airflow, but away from direct sunlight and heat to prevent material damage.
Re-evaluate The Fit:
Once dry, try them on. If they still aren’t snug, you can consider repeating the process, but always be cautious of over-shrinking.
Why Shrink Your Hey Dudes?
Hey Dudes, recognized for their lightweight design and cloud-like comfort, often become a staple in many wardrobes. However, as with all fabric footwear, wear and tear, moisture, and other factors can lead to them losing their shape over time.
A slightly oversized shoe might cause discomfort or even foot issues when worn for extended periods. For those who are particularly fond of their Hey Dudes and don’t wish to part with them just yet, shrinking them back to their original fit can be an economical and effective solution.
Do’s And Don’ts When Trying To Shrink Hey Dudes:
Do’s:
- Always ensure your Hey Dudes are clean before attempting to shrink them. This prevents dirt or grime from setting further into the fabric when wet.
- Warm water helps in shrinking fabric shoes, but it shouldn’t be too hot. Lukewarm or mildly warm water is ideal.
- After the shrinking process, ensure you test the fit. If they aren’t snug enough, you might consider repeating the process but remember not to overdo it.
- Gently reshape the shoes while they’re damp. This helps in retain their original shape as they dry.
- Always allow the shoes to air dry naturally in a well-ventilated area. Direct sunlight or external heat sources can damage the shoes or cause uneven shrinking.
- Do consider using shoe trees or stuffing the shoes with newspaper while they’re drying can help maintain their shape.
- Give your Hey Dudes ample time to dry. Rushing the process might lead to undesirable results.
Don’ts:
- Extremely hot water can cause irreversible damage to the shoe fabric, color, and the glue that holds different parts together.
- Harshly wringing out the water can distort the shape and structure of the shoes.
- Placing the shoes in a machine dryer or near direct heat sources can damage them, cause uneven shrinking, or affect the sole’s integrity.
- Extended soaking might not increase the shrinking effect and could lead to color bleed or fabric weakening.
- Don’t expect perfect results every time. Depending on wear, previous exposure to moisture, and the shoe’s fabric blend, results can vary.
- Don’t overdo it. Repeatedly trying to shrink the shoes can cause them to wear out faster or compromise their comfort.
- Don’t Ignore the Insoles: If the shoes have removable insoles, consider taking them out before the shrinking process. They can be affected differently by the water and might require separate care.
By adhering to these do’s and don’ts, you can ensure that your Hey Dudes regain their fit while preserving their overall quality and comfort.
Potential Risks And Considerations When Shrinking Hey Dudes:
When considering the process of shrinking Hey Dudes, there are several potential risks and considerations to bear in mind.
1. Fabric Integrity:
Frequent exposure to water, especially when warm, can weaken the fabric of the shoes. Over time, this can make them prone to tearing or developing holes.
2. Color Alterations:
Especially with more vibrant or unique colors, the process of soaking and drying can lead to color fading or bleeding. This might change the overall appearance of the shoes.
3. Uneven Shrinking:
If not done carefully, the shoes might shrink unevenly, causing discomfort when worn or leading to a distorted appearance.
4. Stitching Issues:
The stitching that binds different parts of the shoe together can weaken or become loosened when exposed to the water-shrinking process repeatedly. This can reduce the overall lifespan of the Hey Dudes.
5. Sole Separation:
The glue or adhesive that binds the shoe’s upper to the sole can weaken with repeated water exposure. This might cause the sole to start separating from the shoe over time.
6. Texture Changes:
The unique texture of Hey Dudes, which many users love for its comfort, might alter. The shoes could lose their softness or plush feel after repeated shrinking attempts.
7. Odor Development:
If the shoes are not dried thoroughly and in a well-ventilated area, moisture can get trapped, leading to the development of mold or mildew, which produces an unpleasant odor.
8. Fit Alterations:
While the primary goal is to improve fit by shrinking, over-shrinking can occur, making the shoes too tight and uncomfortable.
When considering shrinking Hey Dudes or any other shoes, it’s essential to weigh the potential benefits against these risks. It’s always advisable to approach the process with caution and avoid shrinking too frequently to maintain the quality and comfort of the shoes.
Conclusion:
As we’ve seen, there are multiple ways to shrink Hey Dudes. Whether you choose to take the digital route and search online for instructions, or the more traditional route and enlist the help of a tailor, it’s important to remember that the end goal is finding an outfit that allows you to express your individual style.
By combining elements that you don’t feel completely comfortable in with pieces that highlight both your strengths and interests, you’ll be able to create a look that’s truly unique. Ultimately, no matter how you decide to go about shrinking your Hey Dudes size, one thing is for sure you’ll have a wardrobe that looks as cool as it feels. So get out there and start exploring the possibilities!
