How to Make Sneakers Less Slippery

Worn sneakers might not grip like they used to.

Sneaker manufacturers place rubber soles with treads on sneakers to keep them from slipping, but after you've been wearing them for a while, you may have worn down the tread to the point that you find the sneakers slipping on slick surfaces. You don't have to throw them out. There are a few things you can do to restore the grip your shoes used to have, no matter what the surface.

Things You'll Need

• Sandpaper
• Hairspray

Instructions

1. Rub sandpaper gently on the bottom of the soles a few times to improve traction. Or, find some cement or pavement and twist your shoes around on the rough surface to create a little more friction on the soles of your shoes.

2. Spray a some hairspray on the soles to help them stick a little -- but not too much -- to slippery floors. You may need to reapply every time you wear the shoes. Lightly spray the length of the sole twice with a sweeping spray.

3. Go to a shoe store where you can find non-slip pads or grips that are designed to attach to the bottom of the shoe. Or, consult a professional cobbler or shoemaker if you are really attached to a pair of shoes. The professional might be able to resole the shoes and keep them going for a little while longer.

References

• Made Manual; How to Fix Slippery Shoes; Pamela Pender; March 2010
• Have-to-Dance: Make Your Dance Shoes Less Slippery