The 7 Best Glue for Shoes Repair 2023: Fix Shoes Instantly

Shoes are one of the most worn and loved things in our wardrobe. Since this is such a regularly used apparel, it tends to need a little bit of fixing at times.

It doesn’t matter how carefully you maintained your shoes or how good you took care of them, tearing on shoes is inevitable.

We often spend a lot of money on our shoes. Fixing them with just any random glue might not be the right thing for their durability. You need the best glue to repair shoes if you want the pair to last.

But there are so many glues for shoes available in the market, how will you know which one is the right fit?

There are many factors that you need to keep in mind when buying shoe fixing adhesive. So we are here to help you find the proper glue with our carefully constructed product list.

What to Look for When Buying Shoe Repair Glue?

Here are all the features you need to keep in mind when buying the right shoe fixing glue. Keep an eye out for these functions if you want to get a shoe adhesive that works.

Drying Time

When buying an adhesive for shoe soles, one of the main things that you need to consider is the drying time.

Fast-drying glues are always the better option. They take a few minutes to an hour to dry completely. You can use them when you're in a hurry. You can even carry these kinds of adhesive with you when you're on the run, in case your shoe tears.

Compatibility

You cannot use just any glue for all kinds of shoes. For example, leather shoes and rubber shoes require different kinds of adhesive during the fixing process.

If you don't want to ruin your expensive pair of shoes, you need to check first whether or not the glue is compatible with the material of your shoes. Checking the compatibility of the glue with the material is especially important when you are trying to fix leather shoes. Leather is a sensitive and expensive material that can react badly if not treated with the right products.

Another reason for you to check the compatibility is so that you get the right bonding strength. A shoe glue made to be used on a rubber sole might not work on EVA foam or plastic soles. And here is a good article about eva foam compatible adhesive.

Finish Of The Glue

An adhesive that dries matte should not be used on a shoe that has a glossy finish. The matte finish glue will be detectable to the naked eye. This will ruin the overall look of the shoe.

The same goes for buying glues with a glossy finish. Make sure the shoe has the same color. Stay away from glues that leave any stains on your shoes after drying.

Cost

You shouldn’t have to break the bank just to buy the best glue to fix shoes. There are plenty of options that are affordable and have a strong bonding capability as well.

Many brands will try and sell you glues for shoes at a very high cost. Not all expensive shoe glues are bad, but some might just be trying to rip you off.

A great way to keep yourself from getting scammed is by looking at the ingredients of the product. You will surely find a more affordable option with the same ingredient list, which will also work the same.

Durability

Fixing your shoe with glue over and over again can be annoying. If you want your shoe glue to last a long time, you need to check for heat and water resistance.

Shoes that you wear regularly need to have the heat resistance feature. Exposure to a little bit of heat should not melt and move the glue.

The same goes for water protectiveness. If any water does manage to seep through to the glue, it shouldn't cause-effect on the integrity of the adhesive.

Our Recommended 8 Best Glue for Repairing Shoes in 2023

1. Boot-Fix Instant Shoe Repair Glue

Surely a glue that even professionals use can't let you down. The Boot-Fix shoe glue has been in use for over three generations.

People starting from cobblers, professional shoemakers to at-home tore shoe-fixers have loved this product dearly.

Once applied, there is no possibility of the glue coming off. The bond created is quite a strong one. That is why people love to use the product on shoes that they wear regularly.

Although the bonding strength is of huge caliber, the glue is quite gentle on your shoes. Even if you use multiple layers of adhesive on your shoe, there is no risk of absorption or staining. This makes it the best glue for shoe sole repair.

No matter how many layers you apply, there is no risk of the sole changing its texture and feel. Also, the ability to maintain flexibility even after drying ensures comfort.

Within a few minutes of application, the adhesive for shoe repair will start to dry. You can use the glue with no clamping as well. The glue can be of great help when you are traveling or are in a hurry and need a quick shoe fix.

Highlighted Features:

• Takes a few minutes to start drying
• Tried, tested, and loved by many professionals
• Can be used without clamping
• Maintains flexibility even after drying
• Great for using on rubber sole cause it does not seep through the material

2. Loctite Shoe Adhesive (Pack of 6)

If you are looking for inseparable bonding capacity, cyanoacrylate glue is what you need. This Loctite Ultra Gel Super Glue with a cyanoacrylate formula is heat and waterproof. Even if your shoes are left outside on a hot summer day, there is no possibility of the glue melting.

Besides the protection from heat and water, you also get great impact, vibration, and shock protection. It's a great glue for sneakers or shoes that you use regularly.

This super glue for shoes is also quite easy to use. It has a pointy head that makes the application more precise. The no-drip formula does not run too thin and so does not make a mess. You could even apply this glue holding your shoe in a vertical position without worrying about any spilling.

The gel formulation can be set without any clamps needed. Also, the adhesives dry clear and invisible.

If needed, the adhesive can be used for other projects around the house as well. The gentle and non-toxic formula is safe to use on most kinds of material.

Highlighted Features:

• Cyanoacrylate formula gives an inseparable water and heat resistant bonding
• Protection from vibration, impact, and shock
• The pointy head allows precise application
• The formula is not too thin and so does not cause a mess
• Can be used on different kinds of materials starting from wood to leather

3. Shoe-Fix 0.7 Fluid Ounces Liquid Glue

Don't have clamps at home? No worries, you can use the Shoe-fix instant professional glue without clamps. After applying a thin coat of glue, just let it sit and dry. You will get the same strong bonding that you get with clamps.

Once applied, the adhesive holds your shoe in place for a long time. That is why the adhesive is one of the most commonly used shoe glue. You get the same professional-grade bonding but at the comfort of your home.

The glue does not change the texture of your shoes’ material at all. The glue does not expand or absorb into the material either.

The glue mimics your movement to eliminate any chances of peeling or cracking. Flexible glues as such are great to use on regularly worn shoes.

Shoe Fix also promises to remain stable under tough conditions such as extreme heat, cold, or moisture. The adhesive will hold your shoe together no matter what.

Thanks to the strong adhesion of the product, you can also use it on leather bags or pants that have tears. Even after washing the glue won't move from its place.

Highlighted Features:

• Can be used on products that you plan on washing
• Gives professional-grade bonding at home
• Undetectable when dry
• Does not expand after drying
• Leather and suede friendly

4. Gorilla Super Glue for Sole Repair

Gel formulated adhesive like the Gorilla super glue is the best shoe repair glue for mess-free application.

Because of the thickness of the product, the application is much more controlled and precise. You rarely have anything to clean up after using a gel formulated glue.

A strong anti-clog cap keeps the glue from drying out. You do not have to take any extra precautions to keep the product safe. The cap does not let any air in, so you can keep on using the adhesive for as long as you like.

Designed to add additional impact resistance, this is a great glue for tennis shoe soles. You can move and bend as you like without worrying about deteriorating the glue’s bond.

Drying time of only 10 to 45 seconds makes the product one of the fastest drying glues on our list. Just like most of the high-quality glues that you get in the market today, this one too has a no-clamps-needed facility.

When it comes to versatility, the glue can be used on wood, rubber, paper, and even leather. There is no toxic smell so the adhesive is safe to use indoors.

Keep in mind that the product does not dwell well with polypropylene or polyethylene plastic. Using the adhesive on these materials might cause them to melt.

Highlighted Features:

• Anti-drip easy to use gel formulation
• A No-clog cap keeps glue from drying out
• Takes only 10 to 45 seconds to dry
• Adds impact resistance
• Bonding lasts for years

5. GEAR AID Shoe Fixing Glue

Versatility in a product is always appreciated by users. This Gear Aid glue can be used for quite a lot of things.

The glue for rubber shoe soles works great for making toe protectors. Use the adhesive on construction boots to protect your toes at work. In addition to that, the product also works well for rebuilding leather boots.

This glue for rubber boots is also a great adhesive for products made of suede, leather, neoprene, GORE-TEX, and canvas as well. Drying time is quick and the glue dries clear as well. 

Urethane adhesive as such helps attach leather without causing any damage to the texture of the boots. The formula is also safe to use on rubber heals and soles as it does not crack or peel. Movement does not damage the bonding of the glue.

Adding the adhesive on work boots will add abrasion resistance and protection from water damage as well.

Although the adhesive does not come with an applicator, the formula of the product is quite thick. That’s why it's so easy to apply and spread evenly. Squeeze out a pea-sized amount of glue and that should be more than enough to attach a sole or fix a tear.

Highlighted Features:

• Does not crack or peel when used on rubber
• Compatible with GORE-TEX, canvas, suede, leather, and rubber
• Adds abrasion resistance with water protection
• Urethane adhesive that does not damage the texture of leather
• Can be used for making toe protectors on work boots

6. ShoeGoo 3.7 oz Tube

Shoe goo is a glue for rubber soles that almost everyone knows about. It's quite well known for being one of the strongest adhesives in the market.

This particular model caught our attention because it is easy to use. Although the glue is very tacky, the material gets off of your hands quite easily. Since the product comes in a squeeze tube, and you need to use your hands to spread the adhesive, this feature is very useful.

A reason why people love the adhesive so much is the protection it gives against water damage. Even if your shoes are soaked in water, the glue won’t give in. You only need a small amount of adhesive to attach holes, tears and fix shoe wear.

This model of glue comes in a large 3.7 oz tube. Close the lid properly and the adhesive should last you quite a while.

The new and improved formula has better abrasion resistance now with a stronger adhesion power. Therefore, you can also use shoe goo as glue for boot soles, shoe heels, waders, and galoshes.

Highlighted Features:

• Easy to get off of hands
• A little bit goes a long way
• Comes in a large-sized 3.7 Oz squeeze tube
• New improved formula with better adhesion power
• Great for using on waders, boot soles, and shoe heels

7. Kabber Bond Polyurethane Adhesive

If you live in a hot area, you can use the kabber bond glue without worrying about it melting off. And if you live in a colder region, don’t worry, the glue does not crystalize or freeze in the cold. Available with weather protection, the Kabber Bond Glue is the best glue for boot sole repair.

Shoes that come in contact with water often are also protected thanks to the water-resistance feature of the glue.

As the glue is weather resistant, the dried outcome is very flexible. Use the adhesive on leather, cord, plastic, and even rubber. The product can be used on porous and textured surfaces.

There is no yellow tint or stain left after drying. The polyurethane adhesive adjusts to your movement eliminating the possibility of any cracks.

This glue for shoes soles takes 12 hours to dry completely. For the strongest bonding, it is recommended that you clean, degrease and sand the surface first.

Highlighted Features:

• Weather-resistant formula
• Can be used in moist environments
• Ideal glue for boots that are used regularly
• Works with cord and plastic as well 
• 12 hours drying time
• Can be used to stick porous surfaces together

8. PSSOPP 100ML Boot Sole Repair Glue

Do your shoes get torn quite often? This huge tub of glue for rubber shoes might just be what you need.

The 100 ml shoe adhesive comes in a steel can with a strong lid. With the lid closed tightly, the adhesive will last you a couple of months for sure.

This is a chloroprene-phenolic one component glue that allows free movement after drying. A flexible formula like this is a great option as glue for sneaker soles.

Added aging-resistance feature in the adhesive makes this a long-lasting one. Once you apply the glue to a torn shoe, heel, or sole, there won't be any need for glue reapplication for a while. The chemical formula of the product makes sure that your shoes don’t tear at the same place again.

Since the adhesive comes in a can, there is no easy applicator facility. You will have to use your hands to apply the adhesive to your torn shoe. This might get a little messy, but thankfully the product washes off easily with soap.

For a strong bond, clamp the pieces you want to glue together and let them sit for about 24 hours.

Highlighted Features:

• Huge 100 ml can that will last for years
• Cures fully in 24 hours
• Holds bond for several months
• Aging-resistance
• Easy to get off of hands

Top 8 Glue For Shoe Repair Comparison Chart

Shoe Glue Types and Their Uses

Depending on the type of base chemical used, there can be many types of shoe glues. But here are a few of the most popular kinds.

1. Cyanoacrylate Glue

Cyanoacrylate is a commonly used ingredient in super glue. So shoe adhesives that are based on this chemical act quite fast.

With some tweaking in the formula, cyanoacrylate glues can be made to be flexible. These tweaked variations are used on torn shoes. The level of adhesion they provide is remarkable.

2. Polyurethane Adhesives

The polymer-based adhesive is mainly used in constructions. However, since the adhesive stays moldable after drying, the product has become quite popular for fixing shoes.

Polyurethane adhesives are weather-resistant and also provide permanent flexibility. You can get different varieties of this glue that can be used on leather as well.

3. Chloroprene-Phenolic Glue

This type of glue is made of an oil-soluble phenolic resin. The specialty of this kind of adhesive is that it can be used to attach metal to metal or plastics, ceramic, copper, leather, and lots of other things.

Another thing to know about this kind of shoe glue is that the adhesive has a really strong bonding capability and can be set at room temperature.

How To Apply Glue on Shoe for Getting Long Lasting Result?

After getting your hands on the best glue for shoe repair, you need to apply the adhesive correctly. Otherwise, no matter how good of a shoe glue you buy, the product won’t be of any use.

Here are the steps you need to follow to get a strong bonding.

1. Clean The Surface

Before adding the glue to your shoe surface, you need to ensure that the shoe part is thoroughly cleaned. Dust particles, oil, or any sort of dirt will get in the way and weaken the glue's bonding capacity.

A great way to remove all kinds of dirt including oil from the surface of your shoe is by giving it a good scrub. Don't use any harsh material like steel wool to do this though. It might ruin your shoe.

Scrubbing will also make the surface of the shoe a little rough. Glue for fixing shoes stick better to rough surfaces.

After washing, let the shoe dry completely. There should not be any water on the shoe when the glue is applied.

2. Apply Adhesive

Now it’s time to apply the adhesive. To do this properly, apply the glue in thin layers. Note that a clump of glue will not be able to hold the torn parts together properly. Clumps of glue will cause a bulge in the shoemaking it is uncomfortable to wear.

If the level of tear requires more amount of glue, reapply the glue. Let the previous layers of adhesive dry a little bit before adding the next layer.

3. Be Patient

After the glue has been added, clamp the surfaces together. Do not unclamp the shoe until you are sure that the glue has dried.

Different glues dry at different times, so the time that the shoe needs to be left alone will depend on the brand of glue you are using. Wearing the shoe before the shoe sole glue has dried is not advisable.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What Will Break Down Shoe Glue?

A good quality adhesive for shoe cannot be removed with just hot water. If you want to remove the glue, you might want to use a cotton ball soaked in acetone. Hold the cotton ball in place for a few minutes and the glue should rub off.

2. Can I Use E6000 Instead Of Shoe Glue?

If you are in a hurry and have no other option, you can use E6000 instead of adhesive for shoes. E6000 dries fast and also gives your shoes a water-proof property. However, the industrial-strength adhesive does not give you much flexibility.

Also, remember to only use one tiny drop of the product on the shoe if you are using E6000. The strong glue might sometimes seep through or even melt rubber soles.

3. Is There Special Glue For Leather Shoes?

Yes, there are special glues made to be used on leather goods. These glues are made in a way that they dry fast, and remain flexible. Adhesive for leather shoes also never stain.

4. How Long Should I Let My Shoe Glue Cure For?

How long the shoe glue will take to dry depends on the environment. If it’s too humid outside, the glue might take a bit longer to dry.

But a good rule of thumb is to wait for at least 24 to 48 hours for the adhesive to dry.

5. Will Shoe Adhesive Stay Flexible After Drying?

Yes, most shoe adhesives are designed to still stay flexible even after drying. This is so that your movement is not restricted.

Final Word

Since you've come to the right place, finding the best glue for repairing shoes should be a breeze by now.

Now that you have a list of the finest adhesive options along with the features you need to keep in mind, the buying process will be much easier.

Remember to store your shoe adhesive properly and the glue will help rescue you from all your shoe disasters safely!

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