Sneakers are more than just shoes—they’re an extension of your style, and sometimes, a real investment. But let’s be honest: nothing kills that fresh-out-the-box look faster than creases.

In this article, we share a few tricks to keeping your kicks looking sharp. With just a bit of TLC, you can keep your sneakers crease-free and fresh for the long haul. Here’s how.

No. 1

Start with the Right Fit

This might sound basic, but the right fit is everything. Shoes that are too big give your foot room to shift around, which leads to folds and creases. Too tight, and they’ll stretch and leave lines in all the wrong places.

Take the time to get your size just right—try them on with the socks you’ll actually wear. If your feet feel snug but not cramped, you’re good to go.

No. 2

Sneaker Shields Are a Game-Changer

Sneaker shields are one of our favorite little secrets for keeping sneakers crease-free. They’re these small, lightweight inserts you pop into the toe box, and they do an amazing job of keeping your kicks in shape, even while you’re moving.

They’re barely noticeable when you wear them, and they really work. It’s a small step with a big payoff in keeping your sneakers looking crisp.

No. 3

Stuff ‘Em When You’re Not Wearing Them

When you’re not rocking your sneakers, give them a little support. Stuff them with tissue paper, crumpled newspaper, or, if you want to go the extra mile, use shoe trees.

This simple trick helps the shoes keep their shape and avoids that dreaded folding over on itself that leads to creases. Plus, it’s an easy and cost-effective way to keep your shoes looking like new.

No. 4

Rotate Your Sneaker Lineup

It’s tempting to wear your favorite pair every day, but giving them a rest will help keep them crease-free longer. If you’re a sneakerhead like me, you probably have a few pairs to pick from.

Rotate them to spread out the wear and tear. By not relying on just one pair, you’ll help each pair keep its shape and stay crease-free for longer.

No. 5

Keep Them Out of Bad Weather

I know it’s hard to leave your favorite pair behind, but wearing sneakers in rain or extreme heat is a fast track to creases. Water can soften the material, making it more likely to fold and bend.

And extreme heat? It can warp the shoe’s material, leaving you with creases and misshaped kicks. So, if it’s wet or blazing hot outside, consider switching to a more durable pair and save your favorites for better conditions.

No. 6

Use Crease Protectors

If you’re serious about keeping your sneakers in top shape, sneaker crease protectors are a must-have. These handy little gadgets slip right into the toe box of your sneakers, adding structure and keeping the material smooth even as you walk. They’re made from flexible yet sturdy materials, so they fit comfortably and don’t interfere with movement.

Crease protectors are especially useful for premium or collector’s sneakers that you want to preserve, helping to maintain that fresh-out-the-box look. Just pop them in, and you’ll be surprised at how effective they are at stopping creases before they start.

No. 7

Invest in Quality Materials

Higher-quality sneakers tend to hold up better over time, and they’re often more resistant to creasing. Leather sneakers, for example, usually develop less creasing than those made from synthetic materials.

So, if you’re planning to splurge on a new pair, consider going for top-notch materials. It’ll save you from a lot of crease drama later on.

No. 8

Don’t Forget the Socks

It may sound obvious, but socks actually help prevent creases. They add a bit of padding and keep your foot from sliding around inside the shoe.

Look for cushioned socks that give you a little extra fill without making the shoe feel tight. This extra layer of snugness helps minimize unnecessary movement, which in turn keeps your sneakers crease-free.

No. 9

Store Them Right

How you store your sneakers matters. Tossing them in a pile or squishing them into tight spaces is a surefire way to invite creasing. Instead, keep them in their original boxes or on a shelf where they won’t get crushed.

For long-term storage, consider using shoe trees to help them hold their shape, especially if they’re premium or collector’s sneakers.

No. 10

Show Some Love with Regular Cleaning and Conditioning

Regular upkeep does more than keep your sneakers looking clean—it actually helps prevent creasing, too. Protect your sneakers from grime and moisture with water-repellent spray for shoes.

Leather sneakers, in particular, benefit from a little conditioner now and then to keep the material supple. For canvas or other fabrics, gentle cleaning can go a long way in keeping the fabric strong and crease-resistant.

No. 11

Try the Towel-and-Iron Trick

If creases have already set in, there’s a handy little hack to smooth them out. Take a small towel, dampen it, and lay it over the creased area. With an iron on a low setting, gently press the towel over the crease.

The heat and moisture will help loosen up the creases, and the towel protects the shoe from direct heat. Just be sure to test a small area first—better safe than sorry!

Takeaways

In conclusion, keeping your sneakers from creasing requires a combination of proper care and preventive measures. Regularly cleaning your shoes, storing them correctly—preferably in a cool, dry place—and using shoe trees or crease protectors can significantly extend their lifespan and maintain their appearance.

Additionally, selecting sneakers made from flexible, durable materials can help reduce the likelihood of creasing. By incorporating these habits into your sneaker routine, you can enjoy your footwear looking fresh and new for much longer, ensuring you can enjoy your investment and avoid needing to replace them frequently.

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