how to make any barefoot shoes slip-on

Unlock Easy Access: Convert Any Barefoot Shoes into Slip-Ons in Minutes

Last Updated on September 16, 2024

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Barefoot shoes offer a world of benefits for your feet – allowing natural movement, strengthening muscles, improving posture and more.

But the need to constantly tie and untie shoelaces can make it feel like your footwear freedom comes with a catch.

What if you could have the best of both worlds? By converting your favorite barefoot shoes into slip-ons, you unlock the health perks along with the convenience of quick on and off. No more fumbling with laces when you’re on the go!

In this guide, we’ll explore the top barefoot shoe candidates for this slip-on conversion as well as simple techniques to DIY the transformation. You provide the shoes, and we’ll provide the know-how.

Get ready to step into pure footwear bliss. No laces, no hassle, just happy barefooting in your customized slip-ons!


Why Convert Barefoot Shoes into Slip-Ons?


Slip-on shoes offer great convenience by allowing you to slide them on and off easily. This saves time and avoids the annoyance of having to tie laces frequently throughout the day.

Adding slip-on functionality to your barefoot shoes means you get the joint benefits of natural foot movement and quick, effortless wearing. It’s a win-win!

How long does it take to put on?


Best Candidates for Slip-On Conversion

The key features to look for when selecting barefoot shoes to convert into slip-ons are:

  • Flexible, non-constricting uppers that can open wide to slip on easily
  • A secure fit so the shoes stay on your feet without laces
  • Minimal seams over the toe box area to prevent irritation from elastic cords
  • Low collar around the ankles for easy slip-on/off
Slip-on Best candidate

Some of the best options to convert are:

These models have stretchy uppers and adjustable toggle or cinch systems that allow a custom, lace-free fit.

Techniques for Slip-On Conversion

There are two main methods for converting barefoot shoes to slip-ons: using elastic lacing systems or taking a DIY approach.


1. Elastic Lacing Systems

Xpand Laces
Lock Laces


Elastic lacing systems like Xpand or Lock Laces make it easy to install slip-on functionality. They replace regular shoelaces with elastic cords that stretch to open up the shoe for slipping on and rebound for a snug fit.


Benefits of elastic lacing:

  • Super fast and easy to take shoes on and off
  • Provide a customized, adjustable fit
  • Low maintenance once installed
  • Can revert back to normal laces if needed


2. DIY Slip-On Conversion


You can also use elastic cord or bungee laces to make DIY slip-ons. Just remove the regular laces and feed elastic through the eyelets instead.


Benefits of DIY conversion:

  • Very affordable using basic materials
  • Fully customizable fit and appearance
  • Allows replacing just the section of laces over the tongue


To DIY, follow these steps:

  1. Remove original laces
  2. Measure your lacing eyelets from end to end
  3. Cut an elastic cord about 2 inches longer than this length
  4. Feed elastic through the eyelets and knot ends to secure
  5. Test and adjust fit as needed
Elastic No tie barefoot shoelaces


Tips for a Successful Slip-On Conversion


To make sure your new slip-on barefoot shoes fit and function properly:

  • Select a flexible elastic system that doesn’t constrict feet
  • Check for rubbing or pressure points after conversion
  • Adjust tension if needed for ideal stretch and rebound
  • Take proper care of the elastic – avoid high heat, chemicals, etc.
  • Periodically hand wash elastic to maintain compression


Converting your favorite barefoot shoes into slip-ons is simple and rewards you with the ease of use you want with the barefoot benefits you need. Give one of these techniques a try and enjoy the foot freedom of kick-off-and-go footwear!

Also, check out our article on the best slip-on shoes if you want to skip the DIY and just get the slip-ons.

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