Every pair of shoes, boots, or sneakers carry the story of every step you take. Over time, the soles of your favourite footwear started to wear down, But does this mean you have to throw them away?
Not at all! Resoling can bring your old shoes back to life. In this guide, we’ll explain what resoling is, how much it costs, and share some easy tips to help you. Let’s get started and save those soles!
What is Resoling?
It is a process for removing a damaged or worn-out shoe sole to fix a new one. You can replace the complete sole or a smaller part of it.
You should replace your sole if its grip has reduced due to wear out, there are noticeable cracks or holes in the sole, or the sole has completely separated from the shoe body.
A Complete Guide to Resole Your Shoes
If you want to resole your shoes through it yourself (DIY) approach, then you can do it by following these easy steps:
➤ Step 1: Collect the Necessary Materials and Tools
Before starting the resoling of your shoes, make sure that you have these required tools and materials in your hand:
- A replacement sole that you want to replace on your shoe. You can buy a variety of replacement soles, heels, and rubber from MY SHOE SUPPLIES.
- A strong cement glue. I will recommend you buy Masters Contact Cement Glue For Shoe Soles, Rubber, Vinyl, and Wood. It is the best adhesive for resoling.
- A sandpaper of medium and fine grit.
- Clamps or any other heavy object to keep the sole in place.
- Cleaning cloth with alcohol or acetone.
➤ Step 2: Clean the Shoe
Now clean the shoe surface, especially the sole area. Wipe out all the debris and dirt using a cloth with alcohol or acetone to wipe out all the dirt.
➤ Step 3: Detach the Old Sole
After that, remove the old sole by cutting it with a utility knife. If the shoe sole is glued permanently, heat it with a hairdryer or a heat gun for easy removal of adhesive.
➤ Step 4: Make the Shoe Bottom Smooth
Next, rub the sandpaper on the shoe bottom to make the texture rough for adequate adhesion. Then, clean the dirt with a clean cloth.
➤ Step 5: Apply the Adhesive Layer
Spread a narrow layer of adhesive on the shoe bottom and replacement sole. Allow the adhesive to settle down and become sticky for 10 minutes.
Note: Please use the adhesive according to the label instructions. Every adhesive requires special care and guidance.
➤ Step 6: Line Up the Sole
Now, adequately place the sole replacement on the shoe bottom. Start from the toe or heel for better alignment. Press it firmly for a long-lasting attachment.
➤ Step 7: Put a Pressure on the Shoe
Put heavy pressure on the shoe by placing a good weight or using a clamp. Do not disturb it for the next 24 to 48 hours.
➤ Step 8: Shape the Replacement Sole
Use a utility knife to cut the excessive replacement sole or adhesive to fit the shoe bottom. Later, sharpen it with sandpaper for a better look.
➤ Step 9: Examine the Attachment and Give a Finish
Inspect the sole replacement attachment to remove any gaps and lost edges of the shoe. Following that, polish the upper surface of the shoe and apply a waterproof spray for future protection.
The Average Cost of Resoling
The cost of resoling depends on the shoe type, the scale of damage, and choosing a professional for repair. If you do it yourself, then it will cost you around $64.93 with the following price breakdown:
◈ Masters Contact Cement Glue $10.95
◈ Sandpaper $13.99
◈ Replacement Sole $ 7.99 $39.99
Note: This price can vary depending on the price of the sole and adhesive. Moreover, if you want to mend the shoe from the cobbler, his fee will also be part of this cost. Additionally, you need to pay a special price for intricate designs and premium soles.
Conclusion
Knowing the resoling, its complete process, and the cost involved, you can make wise decisions about caring for your shoes. Therefore, before throwing away your favorite shoe pairs in the garbage, do consider resoling. You will not regret it!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the average age of a rubber sole?
It depends on how often you wear the rubber shoes. However, it can last for 5 years or more.
Q2: What is the best website to buy Sole replacements online?
You can buy shoe sole replacements from MY SHOE SUPPLIES.
Q3: Can insoles make the shoes better?
Yes! They can improve your shoes by stabilizing the foot, improving body alignment, and increasing the natural cushioning.
Q4: How insole is different from our sole?
The insole is part of the shoe contacting with the feet, while the out sole touches the ground.
Q5: What is the best adhesive for resolving?
The Masters Contact Cement Glue 8oz is the best resoling adhesive available online.
