Slippery sneakers can cause you a world of hurt--not to mention embarrassment--if you slip and fall. You can rough up smooth, slippery sneakers quickly and easily with a few simple techniques. Whether you are playing a pickup game of basketball or simply walking around the mall, these tips will help to keep you and your sneakers secure while you walk.

Sand the bottom of your sneakers with sandpaper. This will "rough up" the sole of the shoes, creating better traction between your sneakers and the ground when you walk or run.

Rub the soles of your sneakers against the road or a curb. This has the same effect as using sandpaper, but it can be done spur-of-the-moment and requires no additional materials.

Spray the bottom of your sneakers with hair spray. You may need to reapply the spray periodically, since it will wear off with time and use. The slight stickiness of the hair spray prevents the shoes from slipping by creating better traction with the ground.

Wipe the bottom of your sneakers with a damp cloth or paper towel. Sometimes dirt and grime will build up on the treads of the sneakers, creating a smooth surface that may slip when it comes into contact with smooth flooring. Wiping the shoes off restores the treads to working condition.

Cut a few lines in the soles of your shoes with a sharp pair of scissors or a utility knife. Do not dig deep into the sole; simply score it lightly. This will help add traction to the sneakers.