To break in vans, wear them often and use shoe stretching products. Breaking in vans can be uncomfortable but is easier than other shoes due to their canvas material.
The trick is wearing them consistently, gradually increasing the time worn to allow them to conform to your feet. Additionally, using stretching products such as a shoe stretcher or even stuffing them with socks can help speed up the process.
Vans recommends avoiding extreme heat, like a dryer or direct sunlight, as this can damage the shoes. With a little patience and care, your vans will soon fit comfortably.

Credit: www.farfetch.com
Understanding The Need To Break In Vans
Explaining The Concept Of Breaking In Shoes
Breaking in shoes is a necessary step to ensure that they fit correctly, and are comfortable to wear. As new shoes are made of stiff materials, they can be uncomfortable and cause blisters, therefore, the breaking in process helps to mould the shoe to the shape of your feet.
Here are some examples of ways to break in shoes:
- Wear them for short periods each day, gradually increasing the amount of time worn until they feel comfortable.
- Use a shoe stretcher to stretch the material gradually.
- Apply vaseline or other lubricants to areas causing discomfort to keep them from rubbing.
Highlighting The Importance Of Breaking In Vans
Vans, like other shoes, require a breaking in period. Not only will this improve their comfort, but it will also help protect the longevity of your shoes. Breaking in vans will reduce the likelihood of developing blisters while wearing them, which can save you from painful experiences.
Additionally, breaking in your vans will alter the way they fit, making them more snug and providing better support for your feet.
Discussing The Benefits Of A Perfect Fit
Having a perfect fit is significant when it comes to shoes, and not only for comfort reasons. A perfect fit will also ensure that you get the most extended life possible from your shoes. Here are some benefits of having a perfect fit:
- Better support for your feet, improving your overall posture.
- Increase in comfort as the shoes will not rub on your feet and cause blisters.
- Decrease in potential foot problems, associated with bad shoe sizing.
By spending time breaking in your vans, you’ll experience the advantages of having the perfect fit, and enjoy your new shoes without any discomfort.
Prepping Your Vans For Breaking In
Breaking in your new pair of vans is essential to ensure a comfortable and snug fit. However, doing it the wrong way can cause blistering and discomfort. Proper preparation before breaking in your vans is crucial to make the process easier and less painful.
In this section, we will provide you with tips on prepping your vans for breaking in, including cleaning, leather conditioning, and choosing the right socks.
Cleaning Your Vans Before Breaking Them In
Before attempting to break in your new pair of vans, you should clean them to ensure you’re starting the process with a fresh pair. Here are some tips on cleaning your vans:
- Remove excess dirt and debris using a soft brush or cloth.
- Apply cold water to the canvas or fabric material of the vans to remove any stains or marks. For leather vans, use a damp cloth to wipe away dirt.
- Avoid using hot water or cleaning agents such as bleach, as these can damage the color and fabric of the vans.
- Allow your vans to dry naturally. Do not expose them to direct heat or sunlight.
Applying Leather Conditioner On Leather Vans
If you have a pair of vans made from leather, conditioning them before breaking them in can help soften the material and prevent cracks. Here’s how to apply leather conditioner:
- Use a soft cloth to apply a small amount of leather conditioner to the surface of your vans.
- Gently massage the conditioner into the leather, paying particular attention to the areas that will experience the most tension during wear.
- Allow the conditioner to dry for at least 30 minutes before wearing your vans.
Choosing The Appropriate Socks For The Process
Wearing the correct socks when breaking in your vans is crucial for preventing blisters and irritation. Here are some tips on choosing the right socks:
- Opt for socks made from breathable materials such as cotton or wool to prevent your feet from sweating and causing friction against the vans.
- Avoid socks with seams or patterns that can cause irritation against the skin.
- Choose socks that fit snugly to prevent them from bunching up and causing discomfort during wear.
By following these tips for prepping your vans for breaking in, your new pair will fit comfortably and last for a longer time.
Breaking In Vans: The Do’S And Don’Ts
Breaking In Vans: Do’S And Don’Ts
Vans are one of the most stylish and comfortable shoes out there, but they can take some time to break in properly. If you’re eager to get that perfect fit without sacrificing the integrity of your shoes, then you’re in the right place.
Here are a few essential things you need to know so that your vans break in as quickly and easily as possible.
Tips For Wearing Your Vans Around The House
Wearing your vans around the house is an excellent way to speed up the break-in process while keeping your shoes looking fresh and new. Here are a few tips for getting the most out of wearing your vans around your home:
- Start by wearing your vans for short periods, a few hours at a time, to avoid straining your feet.
- Gradually increase the amount of time you spend wearing your vans for each session until you can wear them for an entire day.
- Walk around in your vans as much as possible while wearing them around your house, so you can loosen up the sole and upper sections.
- To avoid rubbing or blisters, adjust the laces of your vans so they are tight enough to keep your foot in place but not too tight to cause discomfort.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
One of the biggest mistakes people make when trying to break in their vans is either wearing them too frequently or not enough. Here’s how to avoid those mistakes:
- Don’t wear your vans for an extended period. Don’t wear them every day, and never wear them for long hours at a time.
- Don’t leave your vans sitting in your closet for too long without wearing them, either. This will cause the rubber sole to become stiff and inflexible.
- If you’re going to wear them and walk for an extended period, bring a pair of comfortable shoes, in case your feet become sore.
Warning Against Drastic Stretching Methods
Stretching your vans too much or using drastic methods to break them in is a common mistake that can ruin your shoes. Here’s what to avoid:
- Never soak your vans in water or put them in the dryer to try and stretch them out. This could ruin the color and the shape of your shoes.
- Avoid using hot water or a hairdryer to soften the material to help ‘mold’ your shoes’ shape. This can cause the shoes to shrink and damage the material.
- Never forcefully bend or twist the upper section by hand, as this action can permanently damage the shoe’s structure.
Breaking in your vans correctly is as much about what not to do as it is about what to do. So take your time and avoid any drastic methods that could damage your shoes, and you’ll have a comfortable pair of vans that fits perfectly in no time.
Advanced Tips For Breaking In Vans
Vans are a versatile shoe that comes in various styles and designs. However, breaking in a new pair of vans can be painful and time-consuming. In this section, we will discuss some advanced tips to speed up the breaking-in process and improve comfort and fit.
Using A Vans Shoe Stretcher To Speed Up The Breaking-In Process
A shoe stretcher is a handy device that can help you shorten the time it takes to break in a new pair of vans. Here are some key points to remember:
- A shoe stretcher must be placed inside the vans to stretch them slowly.
- Don’t overstretch the shoes; only stretch them as much as they need to fit comfortably.
- Leave the shoes in the stretcher for at least 24 hours.
- Use a shoe tree or stuff the shoes with tissue paper to help maintain their shape.
Custom Insoles To Improve Comfort And Fit
Another way to enhance the comfort and fit of your new vans is by adding custom insoles. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Custom insoles can be made of various materials such as cork, foam or gel.
- Insoles can help correct foot alignment, reduce pressure points and improve overall comfort.
- Ask your podiatrist or a professional shoe fitter for insole recommendations.
Why Customization Is Important For Breaking-In And What Changes Can Be Made
Customizing your vans can also help you break them in faster and improve fit. Here is what you need to know:
- Vans can be customized in many ways such as adding extra eyelets, swapping out laces, or changing the tongue padding.
- Each customization can fine-tune the fit and make the shoe more comfortable.
- Remember to make small changes at a time, and don’t rush the process.
By following these advanced tips, you can break in your new vans quickly and make them more comfortable. Remember to take your time, customize as needed, and wear them often to help speed up the process.
Maintenance And Care For Your Broken-In Vans
Breaking in vans can be a challenging task, but once they are perfectly fitted, it is impossible to ignore their comfort. To maintain that comfort and longevity of your vans, it is essential to take proper care of them. In this section, we will discuss some maintenance and care tips for your broken-in vans.
How To Clean Vans After Breaking Them In
Cleaning your broken-in vans properly is crucial for maintaining their appearance and extending their lifespan. Here are some tips for cleaning your vans:
- Always use a soft-bristled brush or a clean cloth to remove dirt and other debris from the surface of your vans.
- Use a mixture of mild soap and water to clean the surface of your vans. Avoid using harsh chemicals or bleach, as they can damage the material.
- Rinse your vans with clean water after cleaning to ensure all soap residue is removed.
- Avoid using a washing machine or dryer to clean your vans, as it can cause the material to shrink or become damaged.
- Allow your vans to air dry completely before wearing them again.
Storing Tips For Your Broken-In Vans
Properly storing your vans when they are not in use can help preserve their shape and prevent damage. Here are some storing tips:
- Keep your vans in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat.
- Use a shoe tree or insert to maintain the shape of your vans and prevent them from becoming misshapen.
- Avoid storing your vans in a tightly packed space, as it can cause the material to crease or become deformed.
- If you are storing your vans for an extended period, stuff them with newspaper to help them maintain their shape.
Durability Of Vans And How To Prolong Its Lifetime
While vans are known for their durability, proper care can help prolong their lifespan. Here are some tips to do so:
- Avoid wearing your vans in wet or dirty conditions, as it can cause the material to become stained or damaged.
- Rotate your vans frequently to allow them to air out and prevent them from becoming worn out.
- Apply a protective spray to your vans to help prevent the material from becoming stained or damaged.
- Take them to a professional shoe repair shop for any damage or wear and tear, especially on the sole.
Taking care of your broken-in vans is essential to ensure their longevity and continued comfort. These maintenance and care tips will help you keep your vans looking and feeling new for longer periods, saving you money in the long run.
Frequently Asked Questions For How To Break In Vans
How Long Does It Take To Break In Vans?
It can take up to a week or two of consistent wear to fully break in a pair of vans. The length of time may vary depending on the thickness and material of the shoe.
Are There Any Tips For Breaking In Vans Faster?
One way to break in vans faster is to wear them with thicker socks, as this will allow the shoe to stretch out more quickly. Another tip is to walk around in the shoes for shorter periods at first, gradually increasing the length of wear.
Can I Wash My Vans To Break Them In Easier?
It’s not recommended to wash vans to break them in easier, as this can damage the shoes. Instead, try wearing them around the house for short periods with socks, using a shoe horn to help slide the heel in, and stretching the shoe manually with your hands.
Do Different Types Of Vans Need Different Breaking-In Methods?
Yes, different types of vans may require different breaking-in methods. For example, leather or suede vans may need more stretching and molding than canvas vans. It’s important to take the material of your shoes into account when trying to break them in properly.
Can I Wear Vans Without Breaking Them In First?
Yes, you can wear vans without breaking them in first, but it may be uncomfortable for the first few wears. Breaking them in will make them more comfortable and prevent blisters or sores on your feet.
Conclusion
Breaking in vans can be a daunting task, but with the right techniques and tools, it can be done quickly and easily. Remember to take care of your shoes and condition the leather regularly to prevent cracking and maintain its appearance.
Whether you’re using the newspaper or water method, be patient and let the shoes stretch naturally, avoid heating them too much or wearing them out too soon. Ensure you flex your toes and move around in the shoes to help the process and speed up the break-in period.
Lastly, invest in quality socks and insoles to maximize comfort, absorb sweat and prevent blisters. Knowing how to break in vans will not only save you time and energy but also ensure your shoes fit and feel great. So put your best foot forward and take the time to properly break in your vans!