How to Fix the Sole of a Tennis Shoe

The sole of a tennis shoe can often be repaired with adhesive.

With many styles costing more than a week's worth of groceries, replacing a pair of sneakers can be an expensive proposition. A common issue with athletic shoes is for the sole to separate from the bottom of the upper part; the adhesive bond, between the shoe and sole, will fail due to a defect in workmanship or materials. Instead of having to shell out for a pair of new shoes, the sole of a tennis shoe can often be fixed for pennies on the dollar.

Things You'll Need

• Laundry soap
• Tooth brush
• Newspaper
• Athletic shoe repair adhesive
• 1/2-inch putty knife
• Citrus cleaner
• Clean cloth
• 2, 1-foot sections of 2- by 4-boards
• Clamp

Instructions

1. Wash the damaged areas of the shoe with laundry soap and water, using a toothbrush to clean hard to reach areas. Rinse thoroughly and allow the shoe to dry completely.

2. Spread newspaper. Apply athletic shoe adhesive to the damaged area of the shoe, according to the product directions. Work the adhesive into hard to reach areas with a narrow putty knife.

3. Press the sole of the shoe firmly in place with your hands. Apply citrus cleaner to a clean cloth and wipe any excessive adhesive from the edges of the shoe.

4. Place a piece of 2- by 4-board on the top and bottom of the shoe. Clamp the boards together with a carpenter's or C-clamp. Allow the adhesive to dry according to the manufacturer's directions.

Tips & Warnings

• After washing the shoe, use a hair dryer to hasten dry time.

References

• Shoe Goo Application Instructions; Eclectic Products; 2010

Resources

• Sole Redemption: How to Clean and Repair Shoe Soles