Need a Quick Shoe Fix? Here Are the 8 Best Glues for Shoes
Whether its party heels, ballet pumps or trainers, shoes are made to be worn and lived in. Over time, our favourite pairs—no matter how carefully we treat them—inevitably end up in disrepair. But don't toss that pair just yet. There are fortunately a handful of products that are designed to salvage your most beloved shoes. Breathe new life into your most-treasured pair with one of the eight best glues for footwear on the market. Keep reading to see our favourite picks.
Shop the 8 Best Glue for Shoes:
1. Shoe Goo
True to its name, Shoe Goo is designed specifically for use on footwear, and it's hands down one of the best shoe glues for just about any style. Shoe Goo dries clear (a must for maintaining seamless colour), and the glue remains flexible even after drying. This product's good for everything from detached soles to broken heels.
Shop Shoe Goo:
Standout review: "I wish I had discovered this Goo a long time ago. It would have enabled me to keep my sports shoes for so much longer. The product is very easy to use. Just follow the instructions. It is best to use it as soon as a little hole appears in the sole of your shoe, for example, to prevent it from growing any larger. However, I tried the Goo on an old pair of sports shoes (Nike) that had a large hole in them, probably as large as a quarter of an inch in circumference. As an experiment, I filled the hole and left the shoe to dry for 24 hours. I then tried the shoes, walking for approximately five miles (I like walking!). The Goo not only filled the hole perfectly but it didn't budge when I wore them. I have worn the same shoes several times since, over varying distances (5-7 miles, approximately). The shoes are perfect. I am amazed that a product like this exists. "
2. Gorilla Glue
Another top pick for DIY shoe repair is Gorilla Glue. This ultra-versatile product is waterproof and temperature-resistant. It's also a good choice for harder shoe materials like wood and metal. This is another glue that dries clear (aka it won't affect the item's appearance).
Shop Gorilla Glue:
Standout review: "It is well worth spending the extra money on this product. You get a lot less in the bottle than you see on first impression, however the quality of the glue is superb. I have fixed a shoe sole with this over a year ago that has since been worn almost every day, including in the rain (and still going strong)."
3. Ripcare Shoe Glue
Made in Germany and used by skateboarders all over the world, this shoe glue is mostly used for trainers, vinyl and rubber. Available in 3 different colours, the water repellent and elastic formula makes this a great option.
Shop Ripcare Shoe Glue:
4. Shoe-Fix Shoe Glue
Another product designed specifically for shoe repair, Shoe Fix Shoe Glue is a great choice for virtually any shoe material. Some of our favourite features are how quickly it dries and the clear, waterproof flexible result.
Shop Shoe-Fix Shoe Glue:
Standout review: "My soles on my shoes were coming away from the upper part of the shoes which was a fabric material. Put a generous helping of glue between the sole and top half of the shoe and left for a day. What a result the shoes were totally repaired. Not a sign of coming apart. I would recommend this shoe glue without hesitation."
5. Gear Aid Shoe Repair
One of the more heavy-duty glues on our list, Gear Aide Shoe Repair is suited for structural shoe repair projects (such as reattaching soles or toe caps). This is a good choice for work boots, athletic shoes, and hiking boots.
Shop Gear Aid Shoe Repair:
Standout review: "Used to re-glue soles on Salomon trail running shoes. These had come away for about half their length. Glued once and formed a clean waterproof seal. Have been used regularly since, including running in the Alps. Still glued and watertight despite being thrashed."
6. La Tim's Shoe Glue
We like how easy this one is to control, the soft tube design with the added precision tip makes the glue easy to squeeze out. Plus the fact that its slow-drying and a stronger waterproof function than others is always a winner in my book.
Shop La Tim's Shoe Glue:
Standout review: "I have a draw full of various glues a lot doesn’t do what it says, some just come out the tube going everywhere. I love this it comes out thin and you can add more if needed better than having your fingers stuck together. The best glue yet."
7. Boot Fix Glue
Yes it's more premium in price in comparison to the others but take a look at the reviews and its nothing but praise. Used by the professionals, this boot glue will soon become your go-to. This version also works on shoes and sandals too. Add to basket.
Shop Boot Fix Glue:
Standout review: "I bought this glue around a year ago, and everything (including a leather phone case) has stayed properly stuck.I bought this to repair an entire half sole and heel section that came off a pair of my wife's boots - it absolutely fixed them and has remained properly stuck (and flexible). Subsequently this has done many other minor repairs to shoes, phone cases and belts."
8. Geist Leather Glue
If you're looking for glue that is water based and doesn't leave any residue this should be on your radar. Great for a DIY option when it comes to split leather on a shoe between the sole and the upper. Great for those of us that are new to the shoe repair game, the narrow tip makes it easy to apply.
Shop Geist Leather Glue:
Standout review: "This marvellous odourless water-based glue did a great job fixing the leather strap on my favourite bag.I followed the instructions that are on the label and it worked a treat. The large crack right in the middle of the strap is no more. It looks like a fine line now.This glue is milky-white in colour, with runny honey-like consistency making it easy to spread over the surface for bonding. While it is drying out, it turns into a rubbery stringy consistency."
Shop Our Other Favourite Shoe Care Products:
1. Anti Slip Sole Protector
For those looking to extend the lifespan of their shoes (and specifically the soles), Kiwi Sure Steps offers an adhesive attachment to prevent slipping on slick surfaces. This is an especially good option for footwear like dress shoes, which tend to lack traction and run a higher risk of cracked soles and heels.
2. Cedar Wood Shoe Trees
Did you know that using shoe trees in your shoes are ideal for helping them look newer for longer and maintaining shape? I often use mine on my ballet pump styles and loafers. The other major benefit of the wooden shoe tree, is their absorbent nature, to take away all that perspiration that comes from pounding the pavements is a win in my book.
3. Trainer Wipes
Obsessed with these mini packets, they come in packs of 32 individually sealed wipes, great for travelling, on the go but also at home. I'm a fan of the double sided wipe, the textured side is perfect for those tough trainer stains that just wont shift.
4. Wax Polish
When you want to protect, hello weatherproofing but also want to add some shine and keep your shoes looking fresh, then this little pot should be in your kit. Those in the know rub it on with a clean cloth, then buff off with a soft brush. If you don't believe me check out the 5* reviews for yourself.
5. Shearling Insoles
Once you start doing wearing shearling liners in your shoes, mark my words you won't look back. The addition of the cosy liner against your foot means you can wear your summer-like shoes all year round plus they add comfort, what's not to love?
6. Protector Spray
Those in the know use this spray occasionally to zhuzh up their suede and velvet shoes. Spray from a short distance and then voila. Yes its at the higher price end of the market but its known in shoe industry as one of the best brands in the world when it comes to aftercare. Plus a spray bottle would last you around 6-9 months, so quite good cost per wear.
This story was originally published onBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing U.S. and has since been updated.
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