In this article, we will explore methods to shrink oversized Hey Dude shoes, both with and without washing.

Hey Dude styles like Canvas, Sox, Suede, and Wool can stretch out with frequent use or cleaning.

If your shoes become too loose, it can lead to discomfort and inadequate arch support.

Fortunately, there are several techniques to tighten overstretched shoes.

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 Dude 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.

Also Read : Doc martens in interview 

If you opt not to waterproof your shoes, keep these tips in mind when washing to clean and shrink them without causing damage:

Dos and Don’ts of Washing for Shrinking Shoe Size:

• You can shrink Suede, Canvas, and Sox Hey Dudes through washing.
• Using chlorine and salt in the washer will help prevent fabric expansion and aid in shrinking.
• Run the washer on a low cycle to minimize twisting and scuffing of the shoes.
• Use light detergent and lukewarm or cold water; fully soak the shoes and place them in a mesh bag.
• Avoid putting clothes in the washer with the shoes; instead, add towels for balance.
• You can choose to hand wash, machine wash, or spray wash your Hey Dudes and still achieve shrinkage.
• Rinse the shoes in clean water and allow them to air dry, avoiding direct sunlight, which can harm the material and promote bacterial growth, leading to unpleasant odors.
• Leather or wool Hey Dudes cannot be shrunk through washing.

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.

Also Read : Doc martens vs solovair 

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.

How to Make Hey Dudes Tight?

Several additional techniques can help tighten your shoes, worth considering.

If your Hey Dudes are only slightly oversized, avoid risking damage from heat or washing; simply insert thick or double insoles, or wear two pairs of socks.

It’s crucial to focus on proper size selection. Always try on shoes to see if they fit snugly, considering the shape of your feet—options will vary for wide versus narrow feet.

When purchasing stretchy materials like Canvas or Suede, keep in mind that they will expand over time, so choosing a slightly smaller size can be beneficial, as they will mold to your shape.

You can also stuff your shoes with cloth or newspaper to combat overstretching, though this may lead to further expansion under pressure.

Another option to tighten Hey Dudes is through the laces. Let’s discuss how to adjust Hey Dudes with laces.

Also Read : Doc martens size up or down 

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.

What Are Hey Dudes?

Hey Dudes are celebrated for their comfort and versatility, offering a user-friendly selection of stylish footwear that aligns with contemporary fashion trends.

Their attractive, lightweight design, crafted from high-quality materials and unique western-inspired styles, complements any wardrobe.

Everyone appreciates Hey Dudes for being affordable, washable, stylish, reliable, and stretchable. Founded by Alessandro Romano in 2008, the brand has since made a significant impact on the shoe industry.

Versatility is key with Hey Dudes, which come in options like leather, Sox, Suede, and Cotton for all genders—men, women, and kids.

Designed for barefoot wear, Hey Dudes are durable enough to withstand daily use without wearing out quickly.

Also Read : Chacos vs bedrock

Moreover, Hey Dudes are environmentally friendly (made without harming animals, even fur sourced from recycled materials), allowing men, women, and children to wear them with or without socks.

Their comfortable and soft construction features a ventilated canvas upper, memory foam-padded insoles with soft leather lining, and an EVA (Ethyl Vinyl Acetate) sole.

Additionally, these shoes are washable and breathable, ensuring you can keep them fresh without odors.

The Hey Dude lineup suits various activities—standing, sports, errands, walking, or running with your dog—while their stretchable materials easily conform to your feet, with durable laces for custom tightening.

Finally, Hey Dudes can be paired with socks, jeans, leggings, shorts, or dresses, and are washable for various stains (grease, blood, dirt, ink, water, ketchup).

I would rate Hey Dudes a perfect 10 out of 10 for being the most comfortable and stylish shoes made from recycled fibers and cork (used for insoles). They are ideal for casual business outfits, running, or everyday wear, maintaining their fit without becoming loose or overly tight.

Hey Dudes are versatile enough for any outfit, including jeans, t-shirts, and other apparel types. Not wearing socks can lead to moisture buildup in your shoes, causing issues like fungal infections or bunions. The elastic and breathable materials allow for washing without damage.

Also Read : Chacos strap stucks 

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.

Also Read : Can chacos get wet

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.

Also Read : Doc martens good for snow 

How to Wear Hey Dudes?

Hey Dudes are versatile and fashionable shoes that complement various outfits, and can be worn with or without socks. However, going without socks may expose your feet to dirt and moisture, leading to issues like bunions and odor.