How to Stop Your Converse Tongue From Moving Around

If you’ve ever worn a pair Converse sneakers, you’ve probably faced a common yet annoying issue: the tongue keeps sliding out of place. Though it might seem like a small problem at first, it can disrupt both the look and feel of your shoes.

This shifting tongue is a typical part of the Converse experience for many, but that doesn’t mean it has to be accepted without question. Constantly adjusting it or struggling to find a comfortable fit can diminish the enjoyment of wearing these classic trainers. If this is something that you’ve been through, make sure you read on to find our some tried-and-tested solutions. Let’s get to it!

Why Does the Converse Tongue Move Around?

Some people experience a smooth fit with Converse shoes, while others find the tongue shifting to be a persistent problem. For those struggling with this issue, understanding the underlying causes can be the first step towards a solution:

• Shoe Fit and Sizing: The most fundamental aspect of keeping the tongue in place is ensuring the proper fit. Shoes that are too large provide extra room, allowing the tongue to shift and move. Conversely, shoes that are too tight can push the tongue out of position, causing discomfort.
  
• Lacing Techniques: How you lace your Converse can significantly impact tongue stability. Traditional lacing methods may not offer the support needed to prevent tongue movement. Many Converse models include a loop on the tongue for lacing. Threading the laces through this loop anchors the tongue, reducing its ability to move.
  
• Foot Movement Patterns: Individual walking styles can affect how the tongue behaves. If your foot rolls inwards (pronation) or outwards (supination), it can push against the tongue, causing it to shift.
  
• Insole and Arch Support: The insole inside your Converse plays a crucial role in tongue stability. Insoles that do not support your arch correctly can cause your foot to slide inside the shoe, pushing the tongue to one side.
  
• Wear and Tear: Over time, Converse shoes experience wear and tear that can affect tongue stability. This includes material deterioration, sole degradation, and more.

How to Stop Your Converse Tongue From Moving Around

If the tongue of your Converse keeps slipping out of place, you’re not alone. While some find their sneakers stay perfectly positioned, others struggle with tongue displacement. Fortunately, several methods can help ensure that it stays put and your footwear remains comfortable.

Re-Lacing

Adjusting your lacing can effectively prevent tongue movement:

1. Loosen the Laces: Start by untying the laces from the top down to the row just below the tongue.
2. Adjust for Even Tension: Ensure both sides of the laces are evenly aligned to prevent the tongue from shifting.
3. Thread the Laces Through the Loop: If your Converse has a fabric loop on the tongue (note that not all models have this), thread the laces through it. This loop can anchor the tongue and help keep it in place.
4. Re-Lace: Lace your sneakers back up, ensuring the laces cross evenly to maintain tension across the tongue.

Lace Stays

Lace stays, or lace clips, can help secure laces and improve tongue stability. These accessories hold the laces in place and prevent shifting, which can reduce tongue movement.

Proper Sizing

A well-fitting shoe is crucial for preventing tongue movement:

1. Proper Sizing: Ensure your Converse fits snugly without being too tight. Shoes that are too big allow the tongue to move, while those that are too small can push the tongue out of place.
2. Check Fit Regularly: Shoe sizes can vary, so finding a size that supports your foot comfortably and keeps the tongue in place is essential.

DIY Tongue Stabilisation

Double-sided tape is a simple and effective DIY solution for stabilising the tongue:

1. Apply Tape: Stick a small piece of double-sided tape on the underside of the tongue.
2. Press Down: Firmly press the tongue onto the tape to keep it secure.

Adjusting Lace Tension

Tightening your laces can help:

1. Tighten Evenly: Make sure the laces are tightened evenly across the shoe. Over-tightening can cause discomfort, while loose laces may not keep the tongue in place.
2. Check Fit: After tightening, ensure the tongue remains centred and doesn’t slide to the side.

Additional Tips to Keep Your Converse Tongue in Place

Maintaining your Converse shoes can significantly impact tongue stability. Here are some regular maintenance practices to help keep the tongue in place:

• Regular Cleaning: Keeping your shoes clean prevents the buildup of dirt and grime that can affect the shoe’s fit and the tongue’s position.
• Check Lace Integrity: Regularly inspect your laces for wear and tear. Replace them if they are frayed or stretched to ensure they provide proper tension.
• Inspect Shoe Linings: Check the inner linings of your shoes for any signs of wear or looseness. Ensure they are intact to prevent the tongue from shifting.
• Adjust Fit Periodically: As shoes break in, their fit may change. Re-adjust your laces and ensure the tongue stays aligned with your foot.

The Bottom Line

To tackle the issue of a wandering Converse tongue, start with the essentials. Ensuring the right sneaker size is crucial, as it can prevent unnecessary movement. Experiment with different lacing techniques or use lace loops if available to anchor the tongue securely. For those without lace loops, consider re-lacing your shoes or adding tongue pads to stabilize the fit.

By trying out these tips, you can find the best approach for keeping your Converse tongues in place and ensure you step out in style with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions