I can tell you this - I've had mine since new, off the showroom floor, and the original boot was never easy to put on. You had to stretch it, particularly as you got to the final few clips. Making sure it is warm (leaving it in the sun) will help. I found that I had to press the back of the clips with my thumb (through the vinyl) in order to get enough pressure for it to mount onto the chrome molding. I always thought I would do damage to the vinyl, but never did. Also be sure that the chrome hooks on both sides are folded down, otherwise it can damage and it will be even harder to stretch. What I'm saying is that it sounds like you have a normal fitting boot. I would not suggest converting it to a snap boot.