Shoes have a way of bringing out the best in us, complementing your style. Over time, we grow so fond of a certain pair of shoes that if it were to develop any sort of crack, then you would move to the end of the world to have the pair repaired.
Some other time, you might be tempted to toss a pair of flapping shoes into the trash bin, in order to avoid an embarrassing ordeal. It could be a pair of work, tennis, skateboarding, boots, sneakers, and even sandal shoes. Constant wear and tear gradually takes a toll on the shoes.
Fortunately, with the best glue for shoes, you can salvage just about any pair of shoes in despair. Super glues and a bit of crafty DIY skills are great for fixing a separated sole and midsole. While at it, remember to just apply the right amount of glue. Too much would create a mess that is virtually impossible to remove from the shoe surface.
10 Best Glue for Shoes to Buy in 2020
The Gorilla Super Glue Gel is my top pick for the best glue for shoes. Its ultra-versatile nature, temperature resistance, and water proofing characteristics set it ahead of the other products currently available. Industrial grade performances make sure glued surfaces stay intact.
The reasons why I say it's versatile is that it can be used on any footwear surface. Bonded materials stay together, whether it's rubber, canvas, vinyl, or leather soles. Using a water activated polyurethane technology, a strong bond results between the expanding surfaces.
Once applied, the glue sets fast in a matter of seconds. Ordinarily, the shoes dry intact without being clamped. However, for a neat job, I would recommend you clamp down the parts being glued. An anti-clog cap and a metallic pin ensures an airtight closure for maximized re-usability.
The Gorilla super glue stays resistant to weather elements such as extreme temperatures and moisture. Even though this glue works on almost any material, it is not recommended for use on either polypropylene or polyethylene plastics.
The Shoe Goo Repair adhesive is another popular option among cobblers and DIY shoe repair guys. It's a reliable adhesive that creates a protective coating for your worn out footwear. Featuring a unique trait of non-expansion once dry, the glue holds parts together.
Shoe Goo is an ideal option if you are looking for a way of fixing your damaged heels, rubbers, boots, and galoshes. At the same time, the glue is usable for sealing these types of footwear, so as to prevent premature wear and tear.
Since these shoes are often exposed to high abrasive forces, the formulation in the glue is such that it offers a matching resistance to these forces. Another great feature is the ability of the glue to be used as sealant, for patching up of small-sized holes, provided the surface is flexible.
Again, the glue is waterproof, meaning the bond created stays intact, even when exposed to water. Moreover, a rough finish on the glue adds a bit of traction. As a result, skateboard parts can be patched together in case of holes.
There are several variants of the Loctite range of super glues, but it's the Ultra Gel control super glue that stands out for me. If you are on the lookout for a super glue with a neat finish after patching up, then this would be a great buy.
The ultra-Gel is multipurpose, in that it can be used to repair broken pieces of metal, plastics, leather, ceramic, and rubber. While at it, the application process for this glue is quite a straightforward one. A squeeze design ensures only the needed amount is dispensed at a go.
In order to make the resulting patch flexible enough for your footwear, the glue comprises of rubber ingredients. The bond stays bendable after drying. Because the glue has a gel consistency, it's ideal when applying it in a vertical position.
A patented control applicator consists of a self-piercing screw cap. The cap keeps the nozzle free of any clogging, thus a fresh drip of glue every time you squeeze the sides of the tube. However, there are isolated instances of the glue hardening after a one-time use.
The Shoe Goo 110212 adhesive is one of the best glues for shoes if you ask me. Its uniquely formulated to stay strong and resistant to abrasion and constant knocks. This package comes in a 3.7-ounce tube, to carry out minor shoe repairs from time to time.
What's more, the glue can be used to rebuild worn out soles from scratch. This is especially handy if you are a professional cobbler. Shoes which can be repaired using this glue includes work boots and rubber sneakers.
A water-proofing features allows the shoes to remain intact even after wading through water. Since the glue is also an excellent sealant, it can be used to close glaring holes. Basically, the glue works like rubber cement, sealing openings for good.
Quantity-wise, there is much in there to last you a number of sessions. In as much as the glue has features to prevent it from gluing together after the first use, I still recommend lacing the nozzle with Vaseline the covering with the cap. Next time you want to use it, the cap wouldn't be glued shut.
The Boot Fix super glue is not your regular shoe repair glue. It's framed in such a way that it meets the requirements of professional shoe cobblers. Over the years, Boot Fix has created a niche for themselves in the production of shoe repair accessories.
Requiring no clamping, the glue dries up instantly, bonding almost any shoe material. Unlike some products that form a lump when dry, the Boot Fix super glue stays rigid while remaining flexible for shoe movements. The flexible bond stays unaffected by moisture, cold, or heat.
This glue is created for use on mostly vinyl and rubber footwear. Others such as leather can be repaired too. Whether you own a pair of boots, dress, climbing, athletic shoes etc., you don't have to worry about strengthening that glaring hole.
A signature clear glue appearance gives users the confidence of using the glue on any sneaker colors. The clear appearance stays intact even after drying. Another great benefit is the fast drying time, requiring no clamping or curing.
Formerly called Freesole, the Aquaseal shoe and boot repair adhesive is another common glue for repairing torn shoes. Urethane-based adhesives form a rubber-like bond once dry. Essentially, this behavior is what makes the shoe wearable after repair as it moves about.
The glue is safe to be used on both synthetic and natural materials. These includes rubber, hypalon, and neoprene. After a couple of minutes, the two joined parts adhere to one another, regardless of the scintillating heat, cold, or moisture levels.
Such is the excellence of abrasion resistance that hiking boots, climbing shoes, cleats, and running shoes can be repaired with ease. Soles and heels bond together in a seamless connection that neither cracks nor peels over time.
All types of footwear are compatible with this glue. Whether it's canvas, Gore-Tex, neoprene, rubber, suede or leather, all can be repaired. Apart from gluing two surfaces together, Aquaseal works to prevent further unravelling of stitched seams.
This Shoe-Fix super glue is categorized under a cyanoacrylate. As a result, the formulation is to be specifically used for shoe repair. Backed by a great company reputation over the years, this adhesive is one of the best glues for shoes.
Some of the features that make this super glue stand out is the viscosity. Its gentle flow sets instantly between the surfaces being joined. Thereafter, it remains flexible and doesn't break into parts after once you wear the shoes.
In order to apply the super glue without having to deal with messy spillage thereafter, have a tri-folded towel at hand. Just in case you apply excess glue, use this to wipe off the excess. Once you have applied Shoe Fix to the desired points, apply light pressure on the two parts for better effectiveness.
Designed for shoes, purses, boots, shoes, and belts, the Aleene's Leather and Suede Glue is another excellent choice for a super glue. Keeping your accessories in top shape alleviates some embarrassing moments like a broken purse strap, or a cracked belt.
In the event you notice a loose stitching, address it using this super glue, provided the surface is only dry-cleaning. That's the thing with this super glue. It doesn't work well with surfaces that will regularly come into contact with water.
For other repair works such as broken seams lines on your car seats, the glue holds the parts together quite well. What's more, applying it is a breeze. Simply grab a toothpick and you good to go. However, some bonded leather parts still find a way of peeling off.
For light duty shoe repairs, I think the Shoe Goo 5510110 is the best choice. Plus, it gives you a great value for money, if you consider the 4 packs of 0.18 fl. ounces' mini tubes. All the tubes contain the same trusted gluing abilities that Shoe Goo is renowned for.
This particular product is one awesome sealant. The thick consistency fills up sufficient space to patch small holes on your shoes. Unlike some of the glues around, this one is waterproof. Hence, don't worry about using it at the edges of your soles.
Even though the sizes may seem small, they still do quite a number of shoe repairs. Nonetheless, this depends on how much glue you apply at ago. Regardless, if you intend on replacing entire soles, then I would suggest using regular tube sizes.
For an eco-friendly touch when doing mending works on damaged shoes, the Tandy Leather Eco-Flo Gum is an ideal option to consider. The composition is based on natural gum, has low VOC, and is water based. Still, it works just as perfect as the synthetic based glues.
Applications ranges from slicking of edges and burnishing of natural leather shoes. Other shoes include color veg-tanned leather. The result is a professionally looking, shiny, and smooth shoe edges. Prior to applying the glue, use an edge beveller to round the edges.
A neutral color means the glue doesn't introduce an awkward looking spot on your shoes or purses. Moreover, if the surface is to be dyed, then the glue may inhibit dye penetration. Another great feature is the long lasting nature. A single bottle takes you a long way.
How to Choose the Best Glue for Shoes?
The Type of Glue
Before you buy any type of glue, you have to know the category under which it falls. It is this feature that affects the effectiveness of the cobbler use at hand. Simply put, there are four types to choose from: Urethane rubber, neoprene cement, super glue, and epoxy glue.
Urethane glues are the hardiest of the four, being suitable for a severely damaged sole. Also, the glue is resistant to extreme temperatures. Neoprene cement glue is suitable for use on all surfaces. Super glues are meant for holes and small cuts. They need careful handling too.
On the other hand, epoxy is for bonding materials of different matter content.
Type of Shoe (Material)
Here is the deal. Not all glues will work for all your shoes. While shoes are available in a wide array of material composition, you will have to look for an adhesive that's a match for the shoe material.
Neoprene glues are great for strong bonds on rubber shoes. However, its ineffective on porous materials such as leather. Another glue, urethane is all weather and works on rain boots and rubber, but not canvas.
The easiest of knowing which ones work best for which material is to check the product description. All the products should have a detailed outline of the type of material its best used for.
Weather Elements-Proof
Virtually all bond will be affected by weather conditions in one way or another. That's why you need a glue that's resistant to temperature changes. Your best bet is a product that will withstand high temperatures, water clogging, and temperature fluctuations.
As a matter of fact, consider a glue that best suits the intended use of the shoe. If you have running/mountain shoes, then waterproofing and temperature fluctuation resistance are a must. The same goes for all outdoor shoes.
Flexibility of the Resulting Bond
If you check at the descriptions of all the products in this review and buying guide, you will notice a mention of flexibility. But why is it of essence? For starters, gluing is done at seams between two materials. As such, they should be able to move freely like before.
A rigid joint would make it extremely uncomfortable for you to walk. Resultantly, skidding and accidents become a norm. A gluing job that's too rigid will come off after a couple of use, especially when worn for physical activities.
How to Use Glue for Shoes?
Using glue to repair a spoiled shoe is a straightforward affair. Here are the three steps to follow:
Prepare the Surface
It's not a brilliant idea to apply glue on a dirty surface. Dirt impairs the quality of the bond, thus a weak joint. Ensure the shoes are dry and clean before you apply any glue on the broken parts. Roughen up the surface for a proper adhesive bonding.
Apply the Glue
Depending on the application technique of the glue, apply just enough on the cleaned surface. Tube glues have pin point nozzles which direct the glue to the intended parts only. Have a paper towel close by to wipe off excess glue.
Allow to Settle/Cure
Based on the indicated curing time of the glue, apply some pressure to the joined parts for about a minute or so. Some products sets in almost in seconds, while other takes hours.
Here is a useful video on how to use glue that I think will be of great help.
Conclusion
There are certain repairs that you don't have to consult a professional for. Repairing broken shoes is one of those. Looking for someone to do it for you is both time consuming and expensive. Since there are tons of glues for shoes, why don't you start fixing your shoes yourself?
I hope this product review and buying guide has provided you with sufficient gusto to begin working on your shoes by yourself. In my opinion, I think the Gorilla Super Glue Gel is the best glue for shoes. It's super easy to apply, temperature resistant, waterproof, versatile, and flexible.
