5 Ways to Fix Sneakers With Holes

Person fixing sneakers with holes

Sneakers are a versatile and essential part of any wardrobe. They can be worn for a variety of activities, from running to errands to just hanging out. But even the most durable sneakers can eventually develop holes. When this happens, you have two options: replace them or fix them. If you’re on a budget or you’re attached to your favorite pair of sneakers, fixing them is the more cost-effective option. Plus, it’s a relatively easy task that can be done at home with a few simple tools.

There are a few different ways to fix holes in sneakers. The best method depends on the size and location of the hole. For small holes, you can use a patch or glue. For larger holes, you can use a piece of fabric or leather to create a new piece of material for the hole. No matter which method you choose, be sure to clean the area around the hole thoroughly before starting the repair. This will help the patch or glue adhere properly and prevent the hole from getting bigger.

Once you’ve cleaned the area around the hole, apply the patch or glue according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If you’re using a patch, be sure to trim it to size so that it covers the hole completely. If you’re using glue, apply a thin layer to the edges of the hole and then press the patch into place. Hold the patch in place for a few minutes until the glue dries. Once the patch or glue has dried, your sneakers will be as good as new!

Assess the Damage

Before you start fixing a sneaker with a hole, it’s important to properly assess the damage. Start by taking a detailed visual inspection of the hole. Is it small, medium, or large? Is it located on the upper, the side, or the sole? The type and location of the hole will determine the best repair method.

It’s also important to determine the cause of the hole. Was it caused by wear and tear? Accidental damage? Or a manufacturing defect? Knowing the cause will help you prevent similar problems in the future.

If the hole is on the sole, it’s important to check the depth of the damage. A shallow hole can be easily repaired with a rubber patch, while a deeper hole may require a professional repair. The following table provides a guide to assessing sneaker sole damage:

Hole Depth	Repair Method
Shallow (less than 1/4 inch)	Rubber patch
Medium (1/4 to 1/2 inch)	Professional repair
Deep (greater than 1/2 inch)	Professional repair or replacement

Choose the Right Repair Method

Iron-On Patches

Iron-on patches are a quick and easy way to repair small holes in sneakers. They are available in a variety of materials, including leather, suede, and canvas. To apply an iron-on patch, simply place it over the hole and iron it on according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Sewing

Sewing is a more permanent way to repair holes in sneakers. It is best suited for larger holes or holes in areas that receive a lot of wear and tear. To sew a hole, simply thread a needle with heavy-duty thread and stitch the hole closed.

Shoe Glue

Shoe glue is a versatile adhesive that can be used to repair a variety of shoe problems, including holes. To use shoe glue, simply apply a thin layer to the edges of the hole and press the fabric together. Allow the glue to dry completely before wearing the sneakers.

Gather the Necessary Materials

Before you start patching up your sneakers, make sure you have all the necessary materials on hand. Here’s a checklist of what you’ll need:

1. Shoe Glue

You’ll need a strong and durable shoe glue to secure the patch to your sneaker. Look for a glue specifically designed for footwear, as these are more flexible and less likely to crack or peel.

2. Patch Material

The type of patch material you choose will depend on the size and location of the hole. For small holes, a piece of fabric or leather will suffice. For larger holes, you may need to use a thicker material such as a rubber patch or a piece of duct tape.

3. Needle and Thread

If the patch material is too thick to glue down effectively, you may need to sew it in place. A needle and thread will allow you to secure the patch securely and ensure it remains in place.

Material	Purpose
Shoe Glue	Securing the patch to the sneaker
Patch Material	Covering the hole
Needle and Thread	Sewing the patch in place (optional)
Tweezers	Applying glue and manipulating the patch
Clean Cloth	Cleaning the area around the hole
Rubbing Alcohol	Cleaning and disinfecting the area around the hole

Prepare the Sneaker

Before you begin repairing the holes in your sneakers, it’s important to prepare them properly. This will help ensure that the repair is successful and long-lasting.

Materials You’ll Need

Item	Purpose
Sneakers	The shoes you want to repair
Cleaning solution	To clean the sneakers before repairing
Soft cloth	To clean and dry the sneakers
Toothbrush or small brush	To remove any dirt or debris from the holes
Sandpaper or nail file	To smooth the edges of the holes

Cleaning the Sneakers

First, clean the sneakers thoroughly with a cleaning solution and soft cloth. This will remove any dirt or debris that could interfere with the repair. Be sure to pay special attention to the areas around the holes.

Smoothing the Edges

Once the sneakers are clean, use sandpaper or a nail file to smooth the edges of the holes. This will help create a stronger bond between the repair material and the sneaker.

Reinforce the Repair

Once you’ve sewn the hole, you can reinforce the repair by applying a patch or using a shoe glue. Here are two methods for reinforcing the repair:

Method 1: Patch

Cut a piece of fabric that is slightly larger than the hole.
Apply a small amount of shoe glue to the edges of the patch.
Place the patch over the hole and press down firmly.
Allow the glue to dry completely.

Method 2: Shoe Glue

Apply a small amount of shoe glue to the edges of the hole.
Press the edges of the hole together and hold for a few seconds.
Repeat steps 2 and 3 until the hole is completely sealed.
Allow the glue to dry completely.

Shoe Glue Recommendations
Brand	Type	Price
Shoe Goo	Cyanoacrylate	$5-$10
Loctite Super Glue	Cyanoacrylate	$5-$10
Gorilla Glue	Polyurethane	$5-$10

Clean the Area

Before you start patching the hole, it’s important to clean the area thoroughly. This will help to ensure that the patch will adhere properly and that the repair will be durable.

Allow for Curing Time

Once you have applied the patch, it’s important to allow it to cure completely before you start wearing the sneakers again. This will give the adhesive time to set properly and ensure that the repair is strong and durable. The curing time will vary depending on the type of adhesive you used, so be sure to read the instructions carefully. In general, it’s best to allow the patch to cure for at least 24 hours before wearing the sneakers again.

Here is a table with the curing times for different types of adhesives:

Adhesive	Curing Time
Super glue	24 hours
Epoxy	72 hours
Contact cement	24 hours

Wear the Sneakers

Once the patch has cured completely, you can start wearing the sneakers again. However, it’s important to be careful not to put too much stress on the repaired area. Start by wearing the sneakers for short periods of time and gradually increase the amount of time you wear them as the patch gets stronger.

8. Waterproof the Repair (Optional)

If your sneakers are going to be exposed to water or moisture, it’s a good idea to waterproof the repair to prevent further damage. Here’s how:

Clean the repair area: Use a clean cloth or brush to remove any dirt or debris.
Apply a sealant: Apply a thin layer of a waterproof sealant to the repaired area using a small brush or sponge. Choose a sealant specifically designed for shoes or fabrics.
Let it dry: Allow the sealant to dry for several hours or overnight before exposing your sneakers to water.

Here are some popular waterproof sealants for shoes and fabrics:

Product	Type	Application
Nikwax Waterproofing Wax for Leather	Wax-based	Apply to clean leather surfaces
LiquiSole Shoe Waterproofer Spray	Spray-on	Spray onto clean leather, suede, or fabric
Grangers Footwear + Gearproofing	Water-based	Apply to clean leather, suede, or fabric

Clean the Sneaker

Cleaning the sneaker is the first and most important step in fixing any holes. Dirt and debris can clog the holes and make it difficult to patch them effectively. To clean the sneaker, start by removing the laces.

Next, use a soft-bristled brush to gently remove any dirt or debris from the surface of the sneaker. Be sure to pay attention to the areas around the holes.

Once the sneaker is clean, it’s time to start patching the holes. There are a few different ways to do this, depending on the size and location of the holes.

Small Holes

For small holes, you can use a fabric adhesive or a small piece of fabric. To use a fabric adhesive, simply apply a thin layer to the edges of the hole and press the fabric over the hole. Use something flat and heavy like a book or a hammer to press the fabric in place.

To use a small piece of fabric, cut a piece of fabric that is slightly larger than the hole. Apply a small amount of fabric adhesive to the edges of the fabric and press it over the hole. Again, use something flat and heavy to press the fabric in place.

Large Holes

For large holes, you will need to use a patch kit. Patch kits are available at most hardware stores. They typically come with a piece of self-adhesive fabric and a piece of heat-activated adhesive. To use a patch kit, follow these steps:

Cut a piece of self-adhesive fabric that is slightly larger than the hole.
Apply the self-adhesive fabric to the inside of the sneaker, over the hole.
Cut a piece of heat-activated adhesive that is slightly smaller than the hole.
Apply the heat-activated adhesive to the outside of the sneaker, over the hole.
Use a hot iron to press the heat-activated adhesive into place. Be sure to use a low heat setting and to press the iron evenly.

Prevent Future Holes

Preventing future holes in your sneakers is essential for extending their lifespan. Here are some effective tips:

Choose Durable Materials: Opt for sneakers made from high-quality materials like leather or canvas, which are less prone to tearing and abrasion.
Reinforce High-Wear Areas: Use adhesive or fabric patches to reinforce areas like the toe box and heel, which are susceptible to wear and tear.
Use Shoe Protectors: Consider using shoe protectors or sprays to create a protective layer over the fabric, preventing dirt and moisture from penetrating and weakening it.
Avoid Harsh Cleaners: Harsh detergents and solvents can damage the fabric and make it more susceptible to tearing. Use gentle cleansers specifically designed for sneakers.
Dry Sneakers Properly: Drying sneakers in high heat or direct sunlight can weaken the fabric. Air-dry them at room temperature instead.
Avoid Overtightening Laces: Excessive pressure from overtightened laces can stretch and tear the fabric.
Trim Loose Threads: Regularly inspect your sneakers for loose threads and trim them to prevent them from becoming snagged and creating holes.
Use Inserts: Inserts provide additional support and cushioning, reducing stress on the fabric and preventing holes from forming.
Repair Small Holes Promptly: If you notice small holes, repair them promptly with fabric glue or patches to prevent them from becoming larger.
Consider Rotational Wear:
Wearing different pairs of sneakers in rotation helps distribute wear and tear more evenly, preventing any one pair from getting excessive use.

How To Fix Sneakers With Holes

Fixing a pair of beloved sneakers can be a daunting task, especially when you are faced with a gaping hole! However, with the right materials and know-how, this can be a quick and easy fix. Here’s a comprehensive guide to walk you through the process of mending sneakers with holes:

Step 1: Gather your materials
To start off, you will need the following items:
1. Shoe patch or adhesive fabric
2. Super glue or contact cement
3. Scissors
4. Tweezers
5. Pencil or pen

Step 2: Clean and dry the affected area
Ensure the sneakers are clean and dry the hole and surrounding area. Remove any dirt or debris that may interfere with the adhesion.

Step 3: Cut the shoe patch to size
Trace the shape of the hole onto the shoe patch. Cut out a patch that is slightly larger than the hole, extending approximately 1-2 cm beyond the edges.

Step 4: Apply super glue or contact cement
Apply a thin layer of super glue or contact cement around the edges of the hole on the inside of the sneaker. This adhesive will help to keep the patch in place.

Step 5: Position the shoe patch
Place the shoe patch over the hole, matching the edges precisely. Press firmly around the edges to ensure the patch adheres to the sneaker.

Step 6: Reinforce with stitches (optional)
For added durability, reinforce the shoe patch by stitching it in place with a needle and thread. Stitch around the perimeter of the patch, ensuring the stitches are tight.

Step 7: Trim excess material
Once the adhesive has dried, trim any excess shoe patch material around the edges. This will give your sneakers a more polished look.