Superhero Costume Tips for Boots

Rather than choosing an existing superhero for your costume, design your own based on your strengths.

Superheros almost always wear boots. Female superheroes such as Wonder Woman and She Ra are often depicted in high-heel boots that cover their knees, while male superheroes such as the Green Lantern and Superman typically wear heavy, clunky boots. It's not necessary to spend a fortune on superhero footwear. Modify inexpensive boots to help create a hero-worthy costume that's sure to be a hit.

Find the Boots

Your local thrift store is the best place to find boots to modify for your costume. Use boots that are free of buckles, laces and other hardware that can't easily be removed. If you're unable to find boots that go past the knee, purchase the tallest pair you can find; you can add height later. Galoshes are a good choice for male superhero costumes; they are comfortable, free of hardware and easy to modify.

Lengthen Short Boots

To make boots higher, cut the feet off of a pair of thick cotton tights. Put on the tights, slip on the boots and, starting at the ankle, wrap duct tape in a single layer around the boots and in a triple layer up the tights until you reach the height you prefer. Carefully remove the boots and cut the tights off where the duct tape ends. Reinforce the rim of the boots with another layer of duct tape, folded so that half the length of the tape is inside the rim and half is outside. This method also can be used to create knee shields and cuffs.

Paint the Boots

Use fabric paint to transform your boots to the color of your choice. Thoroughly clean the boots with a damp cloth and allow them to dry completely. Use a foam brush to apply the fabric paint. Allow the first layer to dry thoroughly and paint a second coat. Finish with a spray waterproof acrylic sealer. Alternatively, scrub the boots lightly with rubbing alcohol and steel wool to remove wax and slightly roughen the surface. Spray with several coats of acrylic spray paint, letting each layer dry before spraying the next. Finish with the waterproof acrylic sealer spray. Use a stencil to paint special shapes such as stars or spider webs, or glue pre-made appliques to the painted boots.

Accessorize the Boots

Create raised designs on your boots using a squeeze-on silicone caulk prior to painting. Apply it as smoothly as possible. If you make a mistake, wipe it off quickly. Layer the silicone for thick designs. Let the first layer set up before applying the next. Allow the caulk to dry completely before painting. Use heavy-duty glue or two-part epoxy to glue buckles, wings or other accessories to your boots either before or after painting.