The mechanical properties of blends of isotactic polypropylene (PP) and poly[ethylene-co-(vinyl acetate)] (EVA) are studied under tension at several temperatures (from -30 degrees C to room temperature). The morphology and thermal properties are given attention at every stage of the stretching process. To improve the impact resistance of the blends, poly[propylene-graft-(maleic anhydride)] (PPMA) and hydroxylated EVA (EVAOH) are used as compatibilizers. The domain size of the dispersed phase decreases with compatibilizer content, improving the impact resistance of the blends. This is accompanied with changes in the morphology of such systems. (C) 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.