This is something that has happened to me more than once. I have bought running shoes online only to find that they are too tight when I get them out of their box.
Trail running shoes will stretch over time but not by a great deal. Unlined shoes that have a large area of nylon mesh for ventilation will stretch more than shoes with inner linings and Gortex lined waterproof trail running shoes will hardly stretch at all.
Let’s study the factors that determine how much trail running shoes stretch so that your next online purchase has a bigger chance at success.
Will Trail Running Shoes Stretch?
Online shopping has never been this big and accessible to everyone. Like many other people, you can easily order and purchase a pair of trail running shoes online. You are lucky if the shoes you ordered fits your feet perfectly when it arrives. But what if the shoes fit too tight?
Since ordering online does not really allow you to try and see first if the shoes fit your feet unlike when buying at a physical store, you could encounter problems with size and fitting when your ordered shoes arrive.
So, will your new trail running shoes stretch? The answer is – it depends.
The stretch factor of your trail running shoes depends on the materials it is made of as well as the brand. Some brands, like Merrell and Hoka One One, make trail running shoes that fit too tight at first but then stretch along the way to make your feet feel comfortable and well supported.
What Is Actual Stretching?
Actual stretching of trail running shoes happens when you use the shoes for an actual trail run. The stretch occurs when the shoes receive the combination of impact, force, friction, and heat from the running.
The stretching of trail running shoes allows the runner’s feet to stay comfortable even when it swells up due to the activity. This stretching is really important as well in allowing the shoes and the feet to adapt to uneven and unexpected trails.
Trail running shoes can have actual stretching in the heel counter, toe cap, top panel, and inner part. Moreover, shoes that do not have a liner inside can stretch to fit your feet comfortably through usage and time.
What Is Shoe Shape Deformation?
Deformation happens when the shoes deform from their designed shape. Deformation is different from actual stretching because of the following reasons:
When your trail running shoes are deformed, they do not go back to their original design and shape even after running.
Deformed shoes do not provide enough comfort, support, and versatility that you and your feet need.
When you go on trail running using deformed shoes, it could cause you to bear injuries and other accidents.
Once your trail running shoes get deformed due to wear and tear and other reasons, the best thing to do is to buy a new one that will provide you a better fit, stretch, comfort, and support in order to avoid any injuries and accidents.
Examples Of Stretchable Trail Running Shoes
Merrell makes the MTL Skyfire, an affordable trail running shoe that provides great traction, protection, cushioning, stretching, and comfort. It is very good for running on various trails and terrains.
Hoka One One creates the Hoka EVO Mafate 2, a roomier, more stretchy, and more comfortable shoes than the already excellent Mafate 1. It stretches and hugs your feet comfortably, even when your feet swell up. It also provides protection and soft landing.
How Can You Stretch Your Trail Running Shoes?
Break your shoes in by wearing them around your house for a few days. You can also wear thicker socks in order to provide more of a stretching effect.
Place a bag of water and oatmeal inside your shoes and leave it overnight. The oatmeal expands and stretches your shoes.
Place a bag of water inside your shoes and leave them inside the freezer. The water expands while turning into ice and stretches your shoes.