Repair Boat Shoe Soles: A Step-By-Step Guide

Boat shoes are a great investment for sailing enthusiasts, but it's not uncommon for their soles to harden and become slippery over time. This can be dangerous and even lead to accidents. While there are some temporary solutions like sanding or using solvents, these don't always work and might only provide a short-term fix. The most effective solution is to resole your boat shoes. This involves replacing the worn-out soles with new ones, ensuring better grip and safety. It's best to work with companies that specialize in resoling specific brands and types of shoes to ensure a perfect fit and long-lasting repair. Additionally, it's important to properly care for your boat shoes and avoid exposing them to extreme conditions to prolong their lifespan.

Clean the sole and shoe with a mixture of water and rubbing alcohol

Before attempting any repairs, it's important to clean the sole and shoe thoroughly. This ensures that the adhesive will stick properly. To do this, mix warm water and rubbing alcohol in a ratio of three parts water to one part alcohol. Use a cotton swab to apply this mixture to the sole and the shoe, gently scrubbing to remove dirt and old adhesive.

Rubbing alcohol is a great disinfectant, and it's safe to use on most types of shoes. It efficiently gets rid of germs and bacteria, and it can also help to deodorise your shoes. If your shoes are made of cloth, you can simply soak them in a bowl of the water-alcohol mixture for half an hour. However, if your shoes are leather, be careful not to use too much alcohol, as it can strip the colour and damage the leather.

Once you've cleaned the sole and shoe, you can move on to the next step of repairing your boat shoes.

Apply a thick layer of adhesive to the sole

To fix the soles of boat shoes, you'll need to apply a thick layer of adhesive to the sole. Here's a detailed guide:

• Clean the sole and the shoe thoroughly: Mix warm water and rubbing alcohol, and use a cotton swab to apply this mixture to the sole and shoe. Gently scrub to remove any dirt, grime, or old adhesive. This ensures that the adhesive will stick properly.
• Choose the right adhesive: Look for adhesives designed for shoe repair, such as Bostik Fix & Glue, Loctite Shoe Glue, or Shoe Goo. These adhesives are known for their flexible and waterproof formulations, which are crucial for the dynamic environment your boat shoes will be exposed to.
• Apply the adhesive: Follow the instructions on the chosen adhesive product. Spread a thick layer of the adhesive evenly across the sole. Make sure you get into all the nooks and crannies for a strong bond. Some adhesives, like Shoe Goo, may need a few minutes to cure before you attach the sole to the shoe.
• Press and secure the sole: Once the adhesive is applied, firmly press the sole against the shoe. Use duct tape, string, rubber bands, or clamps to hold the sole in place while the adhesive dries. This ensures that the sole and shoe remain tightly bonded.
• Let it dry: Patience is key! Allow the adhesive to dry and cure thoroughly. Wait at least 24 hours before removing any securing materials and wearing the shoes.
• Finish and trim: After the adhesive has dried, use 120-grit sandpaper to sand off any excess adhesive and give your shoe a clean, smooth finish.

By following these steps, you can effectively repair your boat shoe soles and extend the life of your footwear. Remember, repairing your shoes is not only cost-effective but also contributes to sustainability by reducing waste.

Press the sole firmly against the shoe

Once you have applied a thick layer of adhesive to the new sole, it's time to press the sole against the shoe. This is a crucial step in the shoe repair process, as it will ensure that the two surfaces adhere properly.

Start by placing the new sole at the front of the shoe, making sure that the edges line up correctly. Gradually lay the sole onto the shoe, applying pressure as you go to stick it firmly to the bottom of the shoe. You can use a tool such as a roller to help with this process, ensuring that you apply even pressure across the entire surface of the sole. Take your time with this step, as it is important to get it right.

Once the new sole is in place, you will need to secure it using clamps, rubber bands, duct tape, or weights. This will ensure that the sole remains firmly pressed against the shoe while the adhesive dries. If using clamps, place them around the shoe at regular intervals to provide even pressure. If using duct tape, wrap it tightly around the shoe several times to hold the sole in place. Weights can also be used, but be sure to place something between the weights and the shoe to avoid damaging the new sole.

It is important to stuff the shoe with paper or another material before clamping it to help it retain its shape. This will ensure that the shoe does not become deformed during the drying process.

Finally, leave the shoe to dry for at least 24 hours in a cool, dry place. This will allow the adhesive to set properly, ensuring a strong and long-lasting bond between the sole and the shoe.

Secure the sole with duct tape, string, rubber bands or clamps

Once you have applied the adhesive, it's time to press and secure the parts together. Press the sole of your boat shoe firmly against the shoe. You can use clamps to secure the sole, but if you don't have any available, duct tape, string, or rubber bands can also be used.

If using duct tape, start by flipping your shoes over so the soles are facing up. Brush off any dirt from your soles with a sturdy brush, such as a utility brush, and clean the sides of the shoes as well. Rub the shoe soles with a cloth dabbed in rubbing alcohol to remove any gummy residue. Treat light dirt with a soapy cloth and let the shoes dry completely before continuing.

If you're using string or rubber bands, make sure they are strong enough to tightly hold the parts together while the adhesive dries. You can also combine these methods, such as by wrapping string around the shoe and sole and then securing the string in place with duct tape.

Allow the adhesive to dry for 24 hours

Once you've cleaned the area, applied the adhesive, and pressed the parts together, it's time to let the adhesive dry. This is a crucial step in the shoe sole repair process, so don't rush it!

After pressing the sole and the shoe together, you'll want to secure them in place while the adhesive dries. You can use duct tape, string, rubber bands, or clamps for this. Make sure the tape or clamps are tight enough to hold the parts firmly together.

Now, the waiting game begins. Allow the adhesive to dry for at least 24 hours. This will ensure that the glue has fully cured and that the bond between the sole and the shoe is strong. Don't be tempted to wear the shoes or test them out during this time, as it will compromise the integrity of the repair.

While 24 hours is the minimum recommended drying time, it's important to note that different adhesives may have specific instructions, so be sure to follow the directions on the product you're using. Some adhesives may require a longer curing time, so it's always best to err on the side of caution and give it a little extra time if needed.

During the drying period, find a safe place to keep the shoes undisturbed. A warm, dry location is ideal. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight or near a heat source, as this could affect the adhesive's curing process.

Once the 24 hours are up, carefully remove any securing materials such as tape or clamps. Check that the sole is firmly attached and that there is no give or looseness. If the repair feels sturdy, you can proceed to the final step—removing any excess adhesive.

Use 120-grit sandpaper to sand off any adhesive that may have overflowed onto the shoe or sole. This will give your shoe a clean, smooth finish. Be gentle and precise during this step to avoid damaging the shoe or the newly attached sole.

Frequently asked questions