Stepping Into Comfort: Your Guide to Sizing and Stretching Canadian-Made Moccasins

Stepping Into Comfort: Your Guide to Sizing and Stretching Canadian-Made Moccasins

There's something uniquely inviting about Canadian-made moccasins. They whisper promises of unparalleled comfort, natural materials, and a connection to rich heritage. But the journey to blissful feet starts with one crucial step: choosing the right size. And if, by chance, your perfect pair feels a little snug at first, don't despair! Moccasins, especially those crafted from genuine leather or suede, are wonderfully adaptable.

Here in Nanaimo, we know the importance of comfortable footwear for every season. Let's dive deep into how to find your perfect fit and how to gently stretch those beloved Canadian moccasins if they're playing a little hard to get.

The Art of the Perfect Fit: Sizing Your Moccasins

Unlike rigid street shoes, moccasins are designed to conform to your foot. This means the ideal fit often feels a bit snug initially, anticipating that lovely "give" that natural materials offer.

Finding the right size for your new moccasins is easy, but it's a bit different from athletic shoes. Here's how to ensure a perfect fit:

1. Measure Your Feet for Accuracy: For the most precise fit, we recommend measuring your feet from heel to your longest toe while standing. Many Canadian moccasin brands provide size charts based on actual foot measurements in inches or centimeters, which can be very helpful.

• Pro Tip 1: Measure Both Feet! It's common for one foot to be slightly larger. Always choose the size that accommodates your larger foot for maximum comfort.
• Pro Tip 2. Sizing for Moccasins at Sheepskin and Things: Good news! Our moccasins at Sheepskin and Things generally fit true to your athletic shoe size. So, if you wear a Canada/US size 7 in athletic shoes, you'll likely wear a size 7 in our moccasins too.
• Pro Tip 3: Half Sizes Made Easy:
  • • Women: If you're a half size (e.g., 7.5), round down to the nearest whole size (order a size 7).
    • Men: If you're a half size (e.g., 7.5), round up to the nearest whole size (order a size 8).

2. Consider the Material:

• Genuine Leather/Suede: These will stretch and mold significantly over time. Aim for a snug, almost "glove-like" fit. Your toes should lightly touch the end, but not be painfully cramped. A slight pressure on the sides is usually fine, as the leather will give.
• Sheepskin Lined: If the moccasin has a plush sheepskin lining, the wool itself will compress over time. This means they might feel very tight at first. It's often recommended to size down a half-size if you're between sizes, as the wool will flatten and the leather will stretch. Your foot should feel firmly encased, but not squished to the point of discomfort.
• Rabbit Fur Trim/Synthetic Lining: While the outer material (suede/leather) will still stretch, the synthetic lining won't compress or give as much as natural wool. Size closest to your regular shoe size, aiming for that snug but not painful fit.

3. Walk Around (Safely!): If you're trying them on in a shop (like perhaps a local Nanaimo store!), walk around for a few minutes. If buying online, wear them around the house for a short period on a clean, soft surface to get a feel for them before committing. Pay attention to any pressure points.

4. Listen to Your Feet:

• Too Big: If your heel slips excessively, or your foot slides around inside, they are too big. Moccasins aren't meant to be floppy; they should feel secure. They won't shrink.
• Just Right (Initially): Snug, a little pressure on the sides or toes, but no sharp pain. You can wiggle your toes slightly. This is the sweet spot for natural leather/suede.
• Too Small: Your toes are severely curled, or there's intense, constant pressure that feels painful. This might be too small even for stretching.

Gentle Stretching: When Your Moccasins Need a Little Extra Room

So, you've got your beautiful Canadian-made moccasins, and they're just a touch too snug. Fear not! With patience and a few simple tricks, you can encourage them to stretch to perfection. Always be gentle, as natural materials can be damaged if stretched too aggressively.

Method 1: The "Wear 'Em In" Method (Most Recommended) This is the safest and most natural way.

• How to: Wear your moccasins around the house for short periods (e.g., 30 minutes to an hour) over several days. Wear thin socks if it helps with comfort.
• Why it works: Your foot's natural warmth and movement will slowly and gently mold the leather. This method gives the most custom and comfortable stretch.

Method 2: The "Thick Sock & Heat" Method (Use with Caution) This method uses gentle heat to make the leather more pliable. Do NOT use on sheepskin-lined moccasins with the wool on the inside, as direct heat can damage the wool.

• How to:
1. Put on the thickest pair of socks you own.
2. Put on your moccasins. They should feel tight.
3. Using a hairdryer on a medium heat setting, gently warm the tight areas of the moccasins for about 20-30 seconds. Keep the hairdryer moving to prevent overheating any one spot.
4. While the leather is warm, walk around in the moccasins until they cool completely.
5. Repeat this process as needed
• Why it works: Heat softens the leather fibres, allowing them to stretch more easily when under pressure from your foot.

Method 3: The "Ice Bag" Method (Great for Spot Stretching) This method is particularly effective for stretching specific tight spots.

• How to:

1. Fill a sturdy, sealable freezer bag (double-bagging is recommended to prevent leaks!) with water.
2. Place the water-filled bag inside the tightest area of the moccasin. Make sure it expands to fill the space.
3. Place the moccasins (with the water bags inside) into a larger plastic bag and put them in the freezer.
4. As the water freezes, it will expand, gently stretching the leather. Leave overnight or until the water is fully frozen.
5. Remove from the freezer and let the ice melt naturally for 20-30 minutes before removing the bags.
6. Try on the moccasins. Repeat if necessary.

• Why it works: Water expands uniformly when it freezes, providing even pressure to stretch the leather.

Method 4: Professional Shoe Stretcher (For Persistent Snugness) If you're uncomfortable trying DIY methods or have very stubborn spots, a professional shoe stretcher tool can be a good investment. Many local shoe repair shops (like those you might find in Nanaimo!) also offer stretching services.

Enjoy Your Moccasin Journey!

Choosing and breaking in Canadian-made moccasins is part of their unique charm. They are an investment in comfort and quality that will serve your feet well for years to come. By understanding how to select the right size and gently stretch them, you're ensuring that your journey with these beautiful, handcrafted pieces is nothing short of pure bliss. Step into comfort, Everyone!