If your favorite pair of running shoes has a crease down the side, you know how frustrating and unsightly it can be . Shoes with creases not only look messy and unprofessional , but they also don’t fit as well and can cause blisters or abrasions when you run.
To fix this problem , many runners and athletes use shoe crease protectors. These shields help smooth the sides of your running shoes and prevent them from getting creases in the first place .
Choosing the right shoe crease protector for your sneakers can be a confusing process. It’s hard to know what features to look for in these products and which brand is going to give you the most bang for your buck. To help you out , we’ve put together this guide to help you find the right shoe crease protector for your sneakers .
What Is a Shoe Crease Protector ?
A shoe crease protector is a fabric or plastic shield that slides over your sneakers . The protector is designed to slip over the top of your shoe and form a sleeve around the entire upper. Some have elastic on the sides that allow them to stretch over your ankle and fit snugly around your boot.
Some types of shoe crease protector air force 1 have a foam core that molds to the shape of your foot , while others have a hard plastic insert that wraps around the entire upper . You should never put a plastic bag or other object over the top of your shoe.
What Are the Different Types of Shoe Crease Protectors ?
There are several different brands of shoe crease protectors on the market. Some stick to your shoe using adhesive , and others clip on with Velcro straps. This guide will focus on products that have an elastic strap that wraps around your ankle and fits securely around the top of your shoe . We’ll also discuss some options if you have wide feet or low arches.
Which Shoe Crease Protector Should I Buy ?
Before you buy a shoe crease protector, you’ll want to consider a few things. First , how thick do you hope the protector to be ? If you plan to purchase a thick model that will completely cover your entire shoe, you’ll need to make sure your sneakers have enough room for the protector .
If the protector will just sit on top of your shoes , there’s less of an issue. However, if you plan to wear a pair of liners or socks underneath your shoes, a thick protector could trap moisture and create a breeding ground for bacteria and fungus . If you don’t want to worry about this scenario, you should opt for one of the thinner models.
Another important consideration is the material you choose for your protector . Do you want a soft material that has a smooth texture like cotton or polyester? Or would you prefer a harder material that will protect your shoes more effectively but offer a bit more grip ?
As you evaluate these options, consider how you intend to use your sneakers . If you run on roads or trails , you’ll want a tougher material because the elements will be harder on your footwear.
Lastly , the price is another factor to consider . The nicer materials can get expensive, especially if you need custom sizing.
How to Wear Your Shoe Crease Protector
Once you’ve selected the right type of shoe crease protector for your sneakers , it’s time to figure out how you’re going to wear it . These protectors come in two basic styles: over the ankle and over the instep.
The first style simply slips over the top of your shoe and goes around the ankle . This style is necessary if you wear socks underneath your sneakers but want the protective cover to not cover the heel part of your running shoes.
The second style is very similar to the first, but it covers more of the instep area . This style is necessary if you want to protect the front of your shoes , including the laces and the tongue.’
How to Remove Your Shoe Crease Protector
Once you’ve figured out which style of protector you’re going to wear, it’s time to decide how to remove and replace it once you’re done running. Most models have a built-in strap around the ankle that allows you to open them and remove your foot from the protector.
If you have a more difficult strap to remove, you may need to either cut it off or pry it off with a fingernail.
How to Care for Your Shoe Crease Protector
While these protectors are designed to help you prevent creases in your running shoes, they aren’t built to last forever. Over time, they will become dirty and worn from repeated use. It’s a good idea to keep them cleaned regularly to prevent odors and keep them in good shape.
To clean them, unfasten the strap on the instep style protectors and take them off your feet. You can then place them in a washing machine on a gentle cycle with mild detergent. Avoid using too much detergent because it can break down the material over time.
To clean over the ankle protectors that go over your socks, just remove them from the shoes and toss them in the washing machine .
