If your favorite pair of Hey Dudes has become loose and you’re searching for how to shrink Hey Dudes Shoes safely without damaging them, this guide gives you expert-backed, step-by-step solutions. The simple answer is that you can shrink them using controlled heat methods—such as washing, drying, or targeted heating—depending on the material.
In this expert-guided guide, I explain the safest and most effective techniques, backed by experience in footwear care and material behavior. You’ll learn exactly how each method works, which materials respond best, and how to achieve a snug, comfortable fit without harming the structure, durability, or comfort of your Hey Dudes.
How to Shrink Hey Dude Shoes?
To reduce the size of your Hey Dudes through washing, you can add salt and chlorine, which will assist in shrinking the shoe. If you’re concerned that washing may void the warranty, consider using a hairdryer or placing them on a stove for a brief period. The heat will cause the shoe’s molecules to contract, effectively shrinking them.
How to Shrink Hey Dudes Shoes With Washing?
When washing your Hey Dudes to eliminate stains from grease, grass, tar, oil, ink, or blood, you should exercise caution. While Hey Dudes are water-resistant, they are not waterproof, lacking hydrophobic layers like Gore-Tex or PVC.
You can enhance their water resistance using Scotchgard (a water-repellent spray) to protect them from moisture during washing or while wearing them in wet conditions. If you opt not to waterproof your shoes, keep these tips in mind when washing to clean and shrink them without causing damage:
How to Shrink Without Washing
As mentioned earlier, leather and wool Hey Dudes cannot be washed. However, there are various techniques to reduce their size. If you want to avoid washing your Suede or Canvas Hey Dudes, there are still methods to shrink them.
When shoes are stretched for any reason, fitting issues may arise. Keep in mind that once you successfully shrink your Hey Dudes with these DIY techniques, you won’t be able to loosen them again. Hey Dudes are made from stretchy materials that can easily become oversized, but purchasing a slightly smaller size may help them conform better to your feet.
Hair Dryer for Shrinking Hey Dudes
Hey Dudes are designed to fit true to size, but if they have stretched enough to feel loose or if you’re concerned about discomfort, you can use a hairdryer to shrink them.
A hairdryer generates enough heat to cause the fabric’s molecules to tighten. Dampen the area you wish to shrink while applying heat, and allow it to cool before trying them on.
Dryer for Shrinking Hey Dudes
Using a dryer can also help shrink Hey Dudes. Wrap your shoes in a towel and run the dryer for at least 20 minutes. Afterward, try them on, but this method won’t provide permanent shrinkage; you need heat for lasting results.
Stove Heat for Shrinking Hey Dudes
This is the riskiest method, where you can turn the stove on low and place your shoes on the stovetop for a few seconds, taking care not to melt them, as direct heat can cause burns. Other heating sources like sunlight, a fireplace, microwave, or heater can also be utilized. Dampening the area you wish to shrink will yield results, whether for leather, wool, or other materials.
Dos and Don’ts of Washing for Shrinking Shoe Size
Dos
- Do wash Suede, Canvas, and Sox Hey Dudes, as these materials can shrink safely.
- Do add chlorine and salt to the washer to control fabric expansion and support shrinkage.
- Do use a low wash cycle to reduce twisting, scuffing, and material stress.
- Do use light detergent with lukewarm or cold water and place the shoes in a mesh bag.
- Do wash them alone or with towels for balance—not with clothes.
- Do choose hand washing, machine washing, or spray washing; all can produce shrinkage.
- Do rinse with clean water and let the shoes air dry naturally.
Don’ts
- Don’t expose the shoes to direct sunlight while drying, as it can damage the material and cause odor.
- Don’t wash leather or wool Hey Dudes, because these materials cannot shrink through washing.
- Don’t use harsh detergents, extremely hot water, or aggressive cycles that may deform the shoes.
Tight Hey Dudes with Laces
Shoelaces can assist in pulling and securing your Hey Dudes, but excessive lace length might compromise their appearance and pose tripping hazards. You can explore techniques like cutting the laces and sealing the ends, trying different knots, or utilizing double laces, although Hey Dudes won’t provide significant benefit unless the laces are suitably long.
Why Hey Dudes Stretch Out?
Let’s examine some factors that can cause your Hey Dudes to stretch.
Hey Dudes Stretch Out
- Wearing them while wet, such as in rainy conditions.
- Machine washing or hand washing them.
- Drying them in a dryer.
People May Also Ask
Can you shrink Hey Dudes in the dryer?
Yes, you can shrink Hey Dudes in the dryer, but this will not provide a permanent solution.
Can you put Hey Dudes in the washing machine?
You can wash Hey Dudes in the machine, but avoid leather or wool options as they may be damaged by water. For stain removal, consider nail polish remover or vinegar, but steer clear of bleach.
Are Hey Dudes supposed to fit snugly?
Hey Dudes are made with both stretchable and non-stretchable materials, so they aren’t meant to fit too tightly, though tightening is possible if they are loose.
Are you supposed to wear socks with Hey Dude shoes?
Socks are not required, but wearing them offers extra protection by absorbing moisture and preventing foul odors.
Why are Hey Dudes so popular?
They are popular due to their affordability, style, washability, reliability, and durability.
Do Hey Dudes get stinky?
Yes, Hey Dudes can develop odors if worn without socks, as foot moisture from sweating can seep into the shoes.
Are Hey Dudes comfortable to wear all day?
Yes, with padded and cushioned insoles, Hey Dudes keep your feet comfortable even during all-day wear.
Final Words
Understanding how to shrink Hey Dudes the right way ensures you restore a snug, comfortable fit without compromising the shoe’s quality. Whether you choose gentle washing, controlled heat, or simple tightening techniques, the key is using methods suited to the material of your Hey Dudes. By following the safe, step-by-step guidance outlined in this guide, you can confidently shrink overstretched shoes and maintain their comfort, durability, and long-lasting performance.