Boat Shoes Too Slippery? Try These Quick Fixes

Slippery boat shoes can be a real hazard when you're out on the water. The good news is that there are several ways to fix them, from DIY solutions to professional services. The most common cause of slippery boat shoes is the hardening of the sole over time, due to exposure to salt water, abrasive non-skid surfaces, sun, and wet-dry cycles. Here are some methods to help you regain your grip and stay safe on deck:

- Abrasive treads: You can add abrasive treads, made of rubber, neoprene, or textured foam, to the soles of your shoes. Simply use a strong adhesive or a hot glue gun to attach the treads and give you that extra grip.

- Non-skid deck coating: Applying a non-skid coating to the sole of your shoe is a cost-effective, temporary solution. It provides an extra layer of traction but needs to be applied properly and will wear off over time.

- Waterproofing: A silicone-based waterproofing product can help reduce slipperiness and protect your shoes from water and salt damage. Ensure your shoes are clean and dry before application for the best results.

- Sanding: Using sandpaper or a sander with 60-80 grit paper can help remove the hardened layer from your shoe soles and expose the newer, grippier rubber underneath. Be sure to wear a respirator to protect yourself from the dust.

- Resoling: If all else fails, you can always have your boat shoes professionally resoled with a non-slip material. This may be more expensive, but it will give your shoes a new lease of life.

Sand the soles of your shoes with 60-80 grit sandpaper

Sanding the soles of your boat shoes with 60-80 grit sandpaper is a great way to restore their grip and traction, making them feel like new. This method is especially useful if your shoes have lost some grip but are not completely slick. Using a finish sander or a random orbital sander, you can lightly sand the soles, paying particular attention to areas that aren't abraded by walking, such as the instep, edges of the sole, and around the toe cup. Don't be afraid to apply some pressure, as the abrasive paper won't remove as much material as you might expect.

For best results, use a respirator to protect yourself from the dust created by the sanding process. This procedure should only take a few minutes and can dramatically improve the traction of your boat shoes, allowing you to get a few more seasons of use out of them. However, keep in mind that the rubber will continue to harden over time, and you may need to repeat the process in the future.

If your boat shoes are made of foam resin or Croc-like material, you may want to try using a soldering iron to revive their grip.

Use a finish sander for a minute to expose fresh rubber

If your boat shoes have become slippery, there are several methods you can use to restore their grip. One way is to use a finish sander with 60-80 grit paper to expose fresh rubber. This method is quick and easy, and it won't harm the high-wear areas of your shoes. Simply apply less pressure on the most worn areas, like the heels and toes, and focus on the instep, edges of the sole, and around the rand (toe cup). It should take less than a minute to complete this process, and it will dramatically improve the traction of your shoes.

Using a finish sander is an effective way to remove the hardened surface of your shoe soles and expose fresh rubber. By using 60-80 grit paper, you can create a rougher surface that will provide better grip and traction on the boat deck. The process is straightforward: simply attach the grit paper to your finish sander and apply light pressure to the sole of your boat shoes. You can use either a manual or electric sander for this task. If using an electric sander, be sure to mist the sole with water to keep it wet during the process.

It's important to be cautious and not overdo the sanding process. Test the grip of your shoes on a dry surface after sanding to ensure you've achieved the desired level of traction. Additionally, be mindful of the wear and tear on your shoes. If the soles have become too thin or damaged, it may be more effective to resole them or purchase a new pair.

By following these simple steps and using a finish sander for a minute to expose fresh rubber, you can significantly improve the grip of your slippery boat shoes. This method is a cost-effective way to extend the life of your boat shoes and enhance your safety on the deck.

Apply a non-skid product to the sole of the shoe

To prevent slipping and sliding on the deck of a boat, you can apply a non-skid product to the sole of your shoe. This can be done by using a spray-on or adhesive solution. This method will help provide some grip and traction on the surface of the boat.

Before applying any product, it is important to ensure that the sole of your shoe is in good condition and free of dirt and debris. This will ensure that the non-skid product adheres properly and effectively.

When choosing a non-skid product, opt for one that is designed for boat shoes and will provide the necessary grip and traction. These products are often available at hardware stores and marine supply stores. Some popular options include:

• 3M Safety Walk slip-resistant treads
• Treadmaster non-slip self-adhesive pads
• KiwiGrip non-skid deck coating
• Dri-Dek interlocking deck/cockpit tiles
• Raptor Deck adhesive sheets

Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully when applying the non-skid product to ensure a successful application. Allow the product to dry completely before wearing the shoes on the boat.

It is important to note that non-skid products may only provide a temporary solution, as they can wear off over time. Regular cleaning and maintenance of your boat shoes will also help to prolong the effectiveness of the non-skid product.

Coat the sole with sand or grit for added grip

If your boat shoes are slippery, you can apply a light coating of sand or grit to the sole to improve grip. This method is simple, cost-effective, and can be done at home.

First, ensure that the sole of your shoe is clean and dry. You can use a brush or cloth to remove any dirt, debris, or excess oils. Once the sole is prepared, you can begin applying the sand or grit.

For this step, you will need sand or grit with a fine texture. A recommended option is to use 60-80 grit sandpaper. You can use an ordinary palm sander or finish sander to apply the coating. If using a sander, be sure to use light pressure, especially on the most worn areas of the sole, such as the heels and toes. Pay close attention to the instep, edges, and the area around the toe cup, as these areas may require more attention.

The process of coating the sole should only take a few minutes. Don't be hesitant with the sander, as the abrasive paper removes less material than you might expect. After sanding, be sure to clean the soles before bringing them back onto the boat, as you don't want to bring any grit or residue onto the deck.

By following these steps, you can effectively restore grip to your boat shoes, improving your footing and safety on the boat's deck.

Waterproof your shoes to reduce slippage

Waterproofing your shoes can be an effective way to reduce slippage and protect them from water and salt damage. Here are some tips to help you get started:

• Choose a silicone-based waterproofing product, which will help to reduce slippage and protect your shoes from the elements.
• Ensure your shoes are clean and dry before applying any waterproofing product. This will help the product adhere better and last longer.
• When applying the waterproofing product, use a brush or cloth, following the manufacturer's instructions.
• Apply the product in thin, even layers to ensure it dries properly and does not affect the breathability of the material.
• Allow the waterproofing product to dry completely before wearing your shoes.
• Remember that regular cleaning and maintenance of your shoes are key. Keep them free of dirt, debris, and excess oils or saltwater, as these can act as lubricants and make your shoes even more slippery.
• Consider using a non-skid deck coating in combination with waterproofing for added traction.
• If your shoes have abrasive treads, ensure they are securely attached and test their grip on a dry surface before taking them out on the water.
• For a more permanent solution, consider having a professional resole your shoes with a non-slip material. However, keep in mind that this may void any manufacturer's warranties.

By following these tips, you can help reduce slippage and extend the life of your boat shoes.

Frequently asked questions