Well-loved shoes will bear the test of time — holes, cracks, and even splitting away from the sole. While you love your shoes, you might not like the wear and tear you’ve done to them. You will need some of the best shoe glues to keep up with the deterioration!
Shoe glue allows you to extend the lives of your shoes at an affordable price, making buying shoe glue a sensible option for those who want to keep hitting the road with your classic kicks.
There are lots of shoe glues on the market offering different results. I’ve reviewed some of the most effective shoe glues, but if you want to skip ahead, here are the top three:
Contents
Top Three Picks
- Shoe Goo Repair Adhesive — Best Overall Product
- Shoe-Fix Shoe Glue — Best Premium Product
- Gorilla Super Glue Gel — Best Value Product
Otherwise, keep reading to find out which top shoe glues can help put some life back into your worn shoes.
How to Choose the Right Shoe Glue for You
The first step in buying the right kind of shoe glue is to understand the different types of adhesives available for commercial use. I’ll skip the chemistry lesson and use plain English to explain this.
Glues are classified based on their composition, type (hot melt, thermosetting, contact), or how much load they can carry (non-structural, semi-structural, or structural).
As someone who’s worked with different types of adhesives, let me tell you about structural glues. They’re specifically designed for engineering purposes and are known for their incredible durability. This glue is “structural” because if it fails, the whole shoe will come apart.
While industrial-grade superglues are the best option for maximum strength, they can be challenging to find.
Now, when it comes to everyday use, most of the glues you’ll come across will be non-structural. Don’t worry; that doesn’t mean they’re inferior to structural adhesives. They’re simply easier to use and less toxic. But keep in mind that non-structural glues won’t be as strong as their industrial counterparts.
And when you need to reattach the soles of your favorite sneakers or seal up a pesky hole, you’ll need a flexible structural glue. That way, you can ensure that your repair job will hold up to any movements or vibrations. Trust me; it’s worth investing in the best shoe glues to avoid having to fix the same problem over and over again.
Flexibility
While some people buy shoes for collection and display only, most of you will probably intend to wear them for everyday use. Wearing your shoes means walking around; that movement means whatever glue you use needs to be flexible enough to accommodate your actions.
Flexibility is where lots of strong glues fail. The glue is adhesive because the little molecules inside of them (which are called different things depending on the type of glue you’re using) stick together in the presence of water.
The molecules sticking together resemble little metal hooks holding together, eventually forming a chain to allow a durable bond.
The chains are rigid when they dry, providing bond and structural integrity. You could try to move the chain a little bit, and it’ll stay put.
But, if you bend the chains too much, the hooks will break off, destroying them. This is why you can often crack and scrape off flecks of super glue, but the patches themselves will stay together.
When you glue your shoes together, you have to get a strong and malleable adhesive to withstand constant foot movement.
This is why I do not recommend using the same superglue you applied for a static art project on your shoes. You never know when you could accidentally trip on the sidewalk and tear open the glued portion of your footwear.
How is Shoe Glue Different From Regular Glue?
Not only is shoe glue flexible, but it must bond to the porous materials that shoes are often made out of.
Typical glues work well on non-porous materials like glass, plastic, or metal. The glue comes out of its tube as a liquid. When setting a bond, it needs a hard surface so the liquid won’t slip through. This way, the glue molecules can more easily find their hooks.
But you don’t wear shoes of glass, plastic, or metal. You wear shoes made from leather, canvas, fabric, and other breathable material. The reason those shoes are breathable is that they’re porous, which is an issue for most glues.
Hence, the best shoe glues should be able to seep into the small holes in the shoe’s fabric, allowing the bond to flex and bend without breaking.
Types of Glues That Can Repair Shoe
Neoprene Cement
Most glues with “rubber” or “cement” in the name imply they’ll be more flexible, and neoprene cement is no different. Typically, you can use Neoprene cement to repair rubber soles on shoes. I believe you can also use it to repair holes in shoes and other common shoe ailments because it works on most materials.
Not only is neoprene cement flexible and usable on diverse materials, but it’s also durable, long-lasting, and anti-corrosive. It won’t degrade or break down your shoes over time. It also has quick drying time and other perks, making neoprene cement prevalent in shoe repairs.
Urethane Rubber
Now, let me tell you about urethane rubber. It’s not just for sealing, but it can also be a lifesaver when it comes to fixing your favorite pair of shoes. Whether you have separated shoe soles, holes in the fabric, or just general wear and tear, urethane rubber is the way to go.
Urethane rubber doesn’t stiffen after drying, so it is flexible enough, making it one of the best shoe glue alternatives. It can also resist extreme temperatures. In fact, it’ll even work on 100+ degree concrete. Moreover, if you are looking for an excellent waterproof adhesive, this is the one.
Urethane rubber is a common choice for repair shops because of how well it bends, its resistance to heat, and its ability to withstand moisture. I recommend that you check the labels of shoe glues to see if one of the ingredients is urethane rubber. If it does, you know you’re in good hands.
Epoxy Glue
Epoxy glue sets inflexibly. Superglue, gorilla glue, and other strong glues in the hardware store usually incorporate epoxy in their formula. Epoxies tend to dry more rigidly, so I do not recommend that you use them for larger repairs.
I believe that using epoxy glues as a sort of spot treatment, such as for repairing holes and minor separation from the shoe sole, would be better. The more glue you have on your shoe, the more likely it will crack over time and render the results null.
In terms of the strongest and cheapest glue products, you’ll find they most likely contain epoxies.
When repairing shoes using epoxy glues, I advise that you wear gloves because they form strong bonds with hydrogen. There’s hydrogen in the moisture of your skin, and since your skin is porous, you have a hard time removing the epoxy glue from your hands.
Best Shoe Glue Reviews
- Shoe Goo Repair Adhesive for Fixing Worn Shoes or Boots
- Shoe-Fix Shoe Glue
- Gorilla Super Glue Gel
- Angelus Shoe Contact Cement
- Hot Stuff Thin Instant CA Glue
- Boot-Fix Shoe Glue
- Loctite Clear Silicone Waterproof Sealant
- Gear Aid Aquaseal Adhesive
- Shoe Goo, Black
- Aleene’s Leather & Suede Glue
1. Shoe Goo Repair Adhesive for Fixing Worn Shoes or Boots
Shoe Goo is one of my go-to names for Do-It-Yourself shoe repairs. I find it to be an effective and affordable shoe glue that remains flexible when it dries.
I have used Shoe Goo to fix the gaps in my worn shoe soles. All I had to do was set the glue in the hole, wait for it to set, and voila! No more exposed feet to the elements. Additionally, since the glue adheres to other materials around it, Shoe Goo creates a water-repelling seal that comes in handy on rainy days.
Not only can Shoe Goo fix the holes in your shoe’s sole, but it can also reattach separated soles together. The shoe adheres firmly to itself despite being flexible. So, as long as I placed a good bit between the separated soles and allowed the glue to dry, my shoes stopped flapping apart every time I took a step.
Another great thing about Shoe Goo is that it can protect shoes from wear and tear. I often apply a thin layer of shoe glue around the edges of my sole (where the sole meets the fabric) to protect the seam from splitting apart.
If you participate in high-impact events like basketball or construction, Shoe Glue can keep your shoes together longer than they would have lasted otherwise. And for skateboarders, applying Shoe Goo to the bottom of shoes provides extra traction and prevents the soles from wearing down too quickly.
Specially formulated to create a strong adhesion that sticks to flexible materials, Shoe Goo is among my favorite glues for typical shoe owners seeking to quickly repair and protect their indoor or outdoor footwear. In my opinion, it is one of the most versatile multi-purpose super glues available at a reasonable price!
Pros:
- Strong bond for immediate results
- Affordable price for a lot of products — one tube can last you years
- Waterproof sealant
- Designed for flexible materials
Cons:
- Shoe Goo is a temporary fix to most shoe issues, so you’ll most likely have to reapply the glue.
- It does not include a syringe or an attachment to make the glue’s application more accurate.
2. Shoe-Fix Shoe Glue
From a company that has been doing shoe repair for three generations, Shoe-Fix is the ultimate high-end shoe repair glue for long-lasting results. It’s what the professionals use.
Shoe-Fix Shoe Glue isn’t just regular superglue. It is specially formulated with flexibility in mind. The glue works quickly but doesn’t clamp down on items it’s not supposed to (like your fingers before you can wash them off, so it is safer).
Unlike other brands, Shoe-Fix Shoe Glue doesn’t expand and create noticeable crevices in the material it’s adhering to. It also doesn’t dry thick, so most of the glue’s applications will be unnoticeable.
The Shoe-Fix Shoe Glue is not affected by hot and cold temperatures once it’s set. If you live in an area that experiences high humidity or extreme temperatures, you’ll know your shoes will not lose their bond. The glue won’t break down over time as a result.
You can use this glue on various materials and shoes, including running shoes, climbing shoes, dress shoes, hiking boots, work boots, rubber and vinyl footwear, and more. It doesn’t matter if the material is porous or not — Shoe-Fix Shoe Glue will get the job done.
While a bit more expensive than the other glues on this list, Shoe-Fix Shoe Glue lasts longer than the other leading shoe glue brands. If you want to save money by avoiding a shoe repair shop, spending a few more dollars on this shoe glue will facilitate your do-it-yourself shoe repair adventures. I think it is super worth it!
Pros:
- Designed for a variety of materials and shoes, such as dress, athletic, and climbing shoes, along with rubber boots and vinyl shoes.
- This glue is not affected by heat, cold, or moisture.
- It does not expand after drying.
Cons:
- A bit expensive for a small tube of glue.
- You’ll need to reapply more frequently if you use your shoes for physical activity, such as running.
3. Gorilla Super Glue Gel
As someone who has extensive experience in shoe repairs, I have come across different types of glues in the hardware store. Although not as popular as Super Glue, it is still one of the most sought-after brands of epoxy glue in the market. However, you should use small amounts of it instead of applying large swaths of glue on your shoes.
One of the best features of Gorilla Glue is its thicker formula, which makes it less likely to run. This means you can apply it vertically without worrying about the glue ending up in places you didn’t intend it to. This is particularly useful when repairing the heel or toe of your shoes.
Gorilla Glue also has an anti-clog cap, which helps keep the glue from drying out, ensuring it lasts longer. You don’t need to clamp the glue after applying it, as it dries in just 10 to 30 seconds.
This versatile glue works on most materials, including leather, rubber, plastic, and suede. Whether you’re fixing your shoes or repairing something else, such as wood, metal, paper, or ceramic, Gorilla Glue is a dependable adhesive.
While Gorilla Glue is incredibly strong, it’s not immune to moisture. If you get caught in the rain, for example, the water can eventually break down the bonds created by the glue. To avoid this, it’s best to apply the glue on a dry surface and try to keep your shoes as dry as possible after the repair.
Gorilla Glue is affordable and widely available, both online and in hardware stores. It is one of the most versatile glues that’ll fit in various scenarios, including fixing your favorite shoe. Whether you’re reattaching the sole or closing a hole, I can guarantee that Gorilla Glue will be super effective.
Pros:
- Affordable price
- It adheres to most porous and non-porous surfaces.
- The glue has a quick drying time for this glue.
- No need for clamping (though it wouldn’t hurt to do so still).
Cons:
- Dries hard, so it might break after you’ve worn your shoes for some time.
- Sticks to the skin, so be careful upon application.
4. Angelus Shoe Contact Cement
When it comes to shoe repair, I’ve tried many types of adhesive, but I always come back to contact cement glues. It’s a little different from other glues because it’s usually applied with a brush, like the Angelus.
I highly recommend the Angelus Shoe Contact Cement because it dries clear and has a professional-strength hold, perfect for long-lasting shoe repairs. What I love about this glue is that it works on a variety of shoe materials, including rubber, leather, plastic, and fabric.
When it comes to reattaching soles, it’s important to use a versatile shoe glue that works in both porous and non-porous materials. The Angelus Shoe Contact Cement does just that, and it’s incredibly effective.
Plus, it’s non-staining, so if you accidentally get some on the more visible parts of your shoe, you can wipe it off or wash it away with soap and water.
If you need to close holes in your shoe tops, the repair needs to be virtually invisible. That’s why non-staining shoe glue is essential for not only lengthening the lifespan of your shoes but also keeping them looking great.
The manufacturer recommends letting the glue set for 15 minutes up to an hour before clamping both surfaces down for an entire hour. It’s a bit of a lengthy process, but I believe that slow and steady wins the race in this case. Fast-drying glues tend to be harder and less flexible, making them less ideal for fixing shoes.
In my experience, the Angelus Shoe Contact Cement is a shoe glue you can buy once and use consistently. It takes a little patience to use, but the result is a strong, long-lasting repair that will keep your shoes in great shape for years to come.
Pros:
- Inexpensive for the amount of glue you get
- Very flexible both upon application and once dried
- Works on a variety of shoe materials
Cons:
- It takes a long time to glue your shoes together, from application to clamping to waiting to dry.
- The glue has a short shelf-life after opening the can, as the cement turns to the consistency of Jell-O after four to five months.
5. Hot Stuff Thin Instant CA Glue
I think it’s important to note that this glue is designed for smaller fractures or getting deep into a material. While it’s possible to use it for larger repairs like reattaching soles, I wouldn’t recommend it because you’ll need to use a lot more of it.
In my experience, the Hot Stuff Thin Instant Glue is better suited for preventing dislocation in the first place. This glue bonds well with porous, tightly fitting materials or helps harden porous materials like fabric or leather.
Hot Stuff glue is versatile and works with a variety of materials like rubber, leather, suede, and fabric, as well as wood, metal, and plastic.
I’ve heard from many customers who use the Hot Stuff Thin Instant Glue to harden or reharden ballet pointe shoes. Its quick bonding and almost instant drying make it ideal for dancers who need to get back on stage and continue practicing.
Unlike other glues, the formula of Hot Stuff glue doesn’t become thick when dry, which means that pieces won’t bulge away from each other due to the glue. This helps ensure that all components are properly aligned.
If you’re looking to fill holes and prevent minor tears in your shoe from turning into bigger problems, this brand is one of the most effective glues that you can choose. However, it’s important to use this glue outside and with hand protection to avoid any accidents.
Since the glue is heavy-duty, it’s not recommended to get it on your skin as it could cause burns or harm your lungs from the glue residue. Nonetheless, top ballet companies still use this glue on their dancer’s shoes.
If you’re a ballet dancer or just someone who’s concerned about minor tears in your footwear, Hot Stuff Thin Instant Glue is definitely worth considering.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Bonds to materials within 3 to 5 seconds.
- Water-thin and penetrates into hairline cracks.
- This glue can bond to both porous and non-porous materials.
Cons:
- If it gets on your fingers or palm, exothermic reactions in the glue’s chemistry can burn your skin.
- Must use in a well-ventilated area, as cyanoacrylate, one of the glue’s main ingredients, is a respiratory irritant.
6. Boot-Fix Shoe Glue
I’ve mentioned the Shoe-Fix Shoe Glue, which covers you for most shoe repair needs. But you can’t use it on heavy-duty stuff. I’m talking about fixing shoes for the weekend warrior home repairs, construction work, or other hours of manual labor.
Boot-Fix Shoe Glue is what you need when regular shoe glue doesn’t cut it. When professional workers need a long-lasting fix, they turn to Boot-Fix Shoe Glue.
The company that makes Boot-Fix Shoe Glue would know — they’ve been crafting and perfecting the art of shoe repair for three generations. This glue has remarkable strength and precision. Just wait for the glue to set and dry; you won’t need extra clamping.
If you work in locations with extreme temperatures, Boot-Fix will work for you. It has a waterproof formula that can withstand humid environments and even heat. I guarantee the flexible bond will stay in place, though you might have to reapply the glue every once in a while.
Boot-Fix Shoe Glue doesn’t expand when it dries or dries thick. It takes up the amount of space you expect it to with no further surprises. The bond will stay malleable once it’s completely dry.
Use the Boot-Fix Shoe Glue for work boots, hiking shoes, rain boots, and other heavy-duty boots or athletic shoes. The long-lasting bond in the shoe will stand the test of time — until it’s time for the next reapplication.
So keep your bottle of Boot-Fix Shoe Glue around. It won’t be for a while, but when that time comes, you know your shoes will get the strong, durable adhesion you need to continue working hard.
Pros:
- Long-lasting and durable adhesion for your shoes.
- This glue is not affected by heat, cold, or moisture.
- It does not dry thick or expand after setting.
Cons:
- A bit on the expensive side.
- This glue dries a yellowish-brown color, so be sure not to get it on the visible parts of your shoe.
- Some applications take longer to bond than others, so it might take more time than what the glue advertises, depending on your boot.
7. Loctite Clear Silicone Waterproof Sealant
I’ve found that Loctite clear silicone sealant is among the most affordable option for shoe glues. Although Loctite is a basic brand of super glue, it still gets the job done at a reasonable price.
Loctite is versatile and can be used to seal up nearly everything. People commonly use it to repair door frames, toys, windows, vents, gaskets, and more. However, it’s also a suitable glue for repairing shoes and boots.
The adhesive is robust and durable, although it’s not the most flexible glue on this list. Nonetheless, it still binds to materials such as rubber, plastic, vinyl, tile, and more. Once the glue sets, there will be no peeling or shrinking, although it could crack due to the constant motion shoes go through.
But don’t worry! You can reapply the Loctite Silicone Sealant for waterproof protection. Your shoes should be able to withstand various environments, whether rain or dry, hot or cold.
Using Loctite keeps your shoes together and ensures your feet don’t feel the harsh external elements. You don’t need to buy a new pair of shoes whenever you break them; just glue them!
When applying the glue to your shoes, ensure you’ve cleaned the surface of dust, grease, dirt, and other contaminants. The shoe needs to be completely clean for the Loctite glue to work its magic.
Once it’s applied, wait for at least an hour before wearing the shoe. If you want to be extra cautious, you could wait up to 24 hours for the best results. Tentatively walk with your shoes around the house or neighborhood.
You might not get everything on the first go-around, so it’s good that the Loctite bottle has plenty of glues to spare for your shoe repair needs.
Pros:
- It is a resilient shoe glue that can be used on a variety of materials and fabrics.
- Affordable glue that you can find online and in nearly any grocery or hardware store.
- This glue quickly sets and dries.
Cons:
- Not flexible enough for shoe repair, so you’ll need to reapply the Loctite glue at some point.
- Instantly bonds to your skin, so be careful when applying the Loctite glue on your shoes.
8. Gear Aid Aquaseal Adhesive
If you’re anything like me, you probably love going hard on your shoes. That’s why I always look for shoe glues that can withstand whatever activity or stress I put on them.
Gear Aid Aquaseal Adhesive is the perfect choice for me because it not only repairs shoes but also repels water, keeping my feet dry in any environment. It’s particularly suitable for hiking, running, and climbing shoes, as well as cleats and other sports shoes.
This durable urethane adhesive permanently bonds to your soles, so you only need to apply it once. Plus, it dries clear and is flexible, so you won’t have to worry about it cracking over time. However, be sure to wear gloves when applying the glue, as it can bond to your skin.
I consider the Gear Aid Aquaseal Adhesive the best glue for shoes that I use around water. I often work in the field, and being near a lake or river means my shoes need to be waterproof. This glue provides excellent protection against water intrusion, which is crucial for my health.
Super Glue, Gorilla Glue, and other epoxies are strong adhesives, but they’re not enough to fight off the world’s toughest material — water. Even the strongest glue can dissolve when wet. So, I always rely on the Gear Aid Aquaseal Adhesive to ensure water doesn’t ruin my workday or hiking trip. It’s an excellent sealant for leaks and wetness!
When my favorite pair of shoes or boots start to show signs of wear, I know I need glue that can repair them without requiring constant reapplication.
Gear Aid Aquaseal Adhesive does just that, and it works on leather, suede, neoprene, rubber, or canvas shoes. For anyone who needs the best waterproof shoe glues, I highly recommend this brand.
Pros:
- Usable on outdoor boots or shoes.
- Protects your shoes from water damage; creates a waterproof seal.
- It can be used on a variety of materials, such as leather, suede, rubber, canvas, or neoprene.
Cons:
- Affected by temperature. This glue takes longer to dry when it’s cold outside, so it’s not ideal if you’re hiking in cold environments and need to repair your shoes.
- While it won’t crack for a while, this glue will sometimes peel away from the application site.
9. Shoe Goo, Black
With expensive investment shoes like an $800 pair of black leather shoes, you want to ensure that no amount of glue you put on the shoe will cheapen its looks.
Regular clear glue, like Shoe Goo, wouldn’t cut it. The off-white color would stick out against the impressive black of my shoes.
That’s why I opted for black Shoe Goo. This glue not only repairs any damage to my shoes, but it also blends in perfectly with the black color. It’s not limited to just dress shoes either – I can use it on any black shoes I own.
As someone who cares about the appearance of my shoes, the black Shoe Goo is perfect for me. It helps camouflage any damage and keeps my shoes looking pristine.
This shoe glue is versatile – it’s a contact adhesive and sealant. I can use it to reattach a disconnected sole, cover seams to prevent water from getting in, or even tighten frayed laces. Women can even use it to reaffix broken heels.
The black Shoe Goo is affordable, and with the anti-clog cap, it lasts for years. I can use it whenever I need to repair any tears, rips, or disconnections in my black shoes.
Pros:
- The black glue color disguises any at-home gluing attempt, meaning people are less likely to see that your shoes are broken.
- It is a strong, flexible sealant designed to repair a variety of shoe maladies.
- This glue is at an affordable price while giving you a lot of glue.
- Not only bonds but seals your shoe
Cons:
- It does not come with an attachment to facilitate more precise applications.
- It cannot be used with lighter color shoes.
10. Aleene’s Leather & Suede Glue
Leather and suede are a special subset of shoe materials. They’re organic, meaning they need to be moisturized and maintained constantly for maximum aesthetic beauty and functionality.
However, no matter how carefully you treat them, you still sometimes tear your leather or suede shoes. If they’re expensive shoes, you don’t want to throw them away or donate them, but you might not be in a position to take them to a shoe cobbler either.
In such a case, using a shoe glue dedicated to leather and suede would be your best bet.
Luckily, Aleene’s Leather and Suede Glue is one of the best glues for this purpose. It’s fast-acting and strong, meaning you can use it for both dress and work shoes. Its purpose extends beyond shoes, as you can use it to repair leather purses, couches, jackets, and other items.
The glue dries in less than five minutes, depending on how much you apply (of course, more glue takes longer to dry, but basic shoe repair shouldn’t take too long).
If you’re worried about a tear in your leather shoes worsening, applying some Aleene Leather and Suede Shoe Glue will nip that tear in the bud.
Leather and suede also need non-staining glues as well. While other shoes dry yellow or brown, this one dries in a way that makes it unnoticeable.
For those who want their leather shoes to be an investment, purchasing leather-specific glue such as this one from Aleene’s allows you to prolong your beloved shoes’ lifespans. I think it is the best shoe glue for people who love leather shoes.
Pros:
- Shoe glue specifically designed for leather and suede.
- Affordable price
- Dries quickly
Cons:
- You can only dry clean the leather after applying this glue.
- It can only be used with dry-cleanable leather only.
- It cannot be used to repair the sole of a shoe — rips in leather or suede.
You may also want to check out the best shoe stretchers.
The Verdict
You’ve read a lot of shoe glue reviews in this article, so I’ve narrowed down the winners to the below three.
Best Overall Product: Shoe Goo Repair Adhesive
Shoe Goo is a big name in the shoe repair industry — and for a good reason. Its shoe glue is comparable to none when it comes to performance, price, and longevity of the glue.
Shoe Goo exceeds the tenants of shoe repair. The glue is flexible and firm, meaning that if you were to reattach a disconnected sole, the sole will remain adhered to the rest of the shoe but be unaffected by the constant movement your walking puts the glue under.
Shoe Goo is also resistant to water. When applying the glue, you create a slight waterproof barrier between your feet and the external world. That waterproof seal is great for people working in aquatic sports or marshy environments, as wet feet make you susceptible to toes infection.
Finally, Shoe Goo is affordable. One tube, with a proper anti-clog cap, should last you for years to come. If you break through your shoes often, you’ll find that one tube repairs your shoes without you feeling like burning through tubes of shoe glue.
Best Premium Product: Shoe-Fix Shoe Glue
For the Shoe-Fix Shoe Glue, there’s a reason it’s one of the top leaders in the shoe repair market. It’s a reliable product for those needing casual yet long-lasting adhesion for their footwear.
Some shoes need more work than others. If you’re frustrated with super glue always breaking, Shoe-Fix’s three generations of shoe repair knowledge could help you fix your shoe and make sure the sole doesn’t become separated again.
The glue dries quickly, is flexible, and provides a sturdy bond. It’s a bit more expensive than the other glues on the list, but you’ll get your money’s worth.
Best Value Product: Gorilla Super Glue Gel
If you want a good-quality epoxy to quickly and easily fix minor shoe damage, Gorilla Glue is for you. While it’s not very flexible, it will spot repair the most common shoe issues. It’s cheap and thus affordable for most people, making it a shoe glue you can use to fix other items around the house.
Don’t get frustrated with shoe glues that promise results but don’t deliver. Using one of the glues on this list will make sure your shoe’s soles remain attached, the holes stay plugged, and your shoes are wearable for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What glue do shoe repair shops use?
Repair shops usually use premium adhesives that can glue damaged shoes flexibly. Hence, I believe that they use glues that contain urethane rubber adhesive. My top 10 picks above include Gear Aid Aquaseal Adhesive, which contains the said component capable of creating a flexible bond and providing waterproofing.
Is Shoe Goo stronger than Gorilla Glue?
Since I’ve used both types of glue, I can tell that each brand excels in its own ways. Gorilla Glue is okay if you just need a quick fix on your shoes. It is cheap and readily available everywhere.
But do not use it on bend parts because this brand can harden. It is super strong but less flexible compared to shoe glue. Though, I think some newer Gorilla Glue variants do offer flexibility.
Can I use Gorilla Glue to repair my shoes?
When it comes to DIY shoe repair, you can rely on Gorilla Glue. It provides an exceptionally tough and hard bond once it sets.
The glue is also waterproof and can withstand some high temperatures. For your work boots or athletic shoes that you use daily, yes, you can use this glue. But it is better to use specialized shoe glues for rare, expensive shoes.
What is the best waterproof adhesive to repair shoes?
Not all shoe glue is waterproof. Some can’t withstand moisture for long and will fall apart. I believe that the best waterproof shoe glue is the Gear Aid Aquaseal Adhesive. It is specifically tailored to deal with moisture. But in a pinch, even the good old Gorilla Glue will do.
How to remove glue from my shoes?
Unfortunately, once shoe glue is set, it will be super hard to remove them. But there are several things that you can attempt to remove them. Some people recommend using a gum eraser to peel off the glue. Others say that isopropyl alcohol and acetone can work as well.
Regardless of the method, I recommend that you be careful when removing glue from the shoes because you might damage your pair and destroy the shoe colors.