Image: MomJunction Design Team
No matter how old they are–shoes and chappals–we don’t feel like throwing them away. However, wearing them to certain events may not be the best choice if they aren’t in prime condition. Buying the best shoe glue with great adhesive properties can solve this issue.
Jodie Filogomo, a style consultant and fashion blogger, says, “Shoe glue is not something you need every day, but it’s one of those tools of the trade that can save the day.”
Not sure which shoe glues are the best ones? Check out our list of carefully chosen time-tested shoe glues.
Top Picks
11 Best Shoe Glues
1. Best Flexible:Boot-Fix Shoe Glue
The tried-and-tested shoe repair glue from Boot-Fix is a professional-grade adhesive tube. Strong and flexible, the glue can bond surfaces almost instantly without clamping. It does not expand or become thick on drying, and the bond is unaffected by heat, moisture, or cold. Among the best shoe glue, it is formulated to fix all kinds of shoes, including vinyl or rubber footwear. Here’s a tester’s experience in this review video to help you get a better understanding of the product.
Pros
- Can repair up to ten boots
- Sticks shoes within ten to 45 seconds
- Glue is water-resistant
- Can also be used on handbags
Cons
- Tube may be tiny
- May be thicker than expected
"This glue has worked wonders on both my old and new shoes, and the fast drying time allowed me to wear them right after they were fixed. Although the quantity seemed limited for the bottle size, the longevity of the repairs made it a worthwhile investment."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 13,260 reviews on Amazon, this product is a winner.
2. Best Versatile:Glue Masters Thin Viscosity Cyanoacrylate Adhesive
Glue Masters adhesive has been through rigorous performance testing and is suitable for metal, rubber, glass, leather, and other materials. The versatile adhesive has a thin viscosity and is made of industrial-strength resin. It can settle within 15 seconds and works almost instantly, binding all kinds of surfaces.
Also Recommended By: The Glue Masters Thin Viscosity Cyanoacrylate Adhesive has also made it to the list by Bob Vila.[1]The Best Shoe Glues of 2024. Bob Vila https://www.bobvila.com/articles/best-glue-for-shoes/
Pros
- Extends shelf life of shoes
- Well-balanced thin viscosity
- Can be used for carpentry purposes
- Available in six types
Cons
- May be slightly watery
- Not suitable for use in rooms with poor ventilation
"Besides shoes, I have used this glue across various materials, and the bond has always been impressive. My only concern was its inconsistent setting time, but its effective performance has made this glue find a permanent spot in my utility cabinet."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Over 6,919 Amazon shoppers have left good reviews about this product, citing its quality features and benefits.
Quick tip3. Best Abrasion-Resistant:Gear Aid Shoe Repair Glue
If you are looking for an abrasion-resistant shoe fix, Gear Aid’s shoe adhesive is a good choice. It repairs shoes with Aquaseal SR, a urethane adhesive sealer for hiking boots or running shoes. It creates permanent bonds by drying clear. The trusted shoe repair glue rebuilds worn-out heels and toe protectors and works on suede, leather, rubber, canvas, neoprene, and Gore-tex shoes and boots.
Also Recommended By: Bob Vila and Who What Wear have also listed Gear Aid Shoe Repair Glue in their top 10.[1]The Best Shoe Glues of 2024. Bob Vila, Need a Quick Shoe Fix? Here Are the 7 Best Glues for Shoes. Who What Wear. https://www.bobvila.com/articles/best-glue-for-shoes/
Pros
- Water- and abrasion-resistant
- Does not peel or crack over time
- Can seal leaks in hiking shoes
- Quality shoe glue for dress shoes
- Available in three packs to choose from
- Backed by a two-year warranty
Cons
- May not be child-friendly
- May be slightly messy
"I've used this adhesive for everything from my work boots to household repairs. While it performs well, I recommend doing a surface prep for best results. On the whole, the versatile adhesive has offered more positives than negatives."
Did you know?4. Best Waterproof:Shoe Goo Shoe Repair Adhesive Glue
Shoe Goo clear glue is designed to create a strong bond and offer abrasion resistance. The glue for shoe soles repairs damaged boots, waders, heels, and shoes by patching holes, soles, and small gaps. The shoe glue for sneakers has a waterproof formula that offers a long-lasting result. Need more information? Watch this video to explore a tester’s experience to help you make an informed decision about the product.
Pros
- Pliable glue
- Helps in creating extra traction
- Protects and rebuilds damaged shoes
- Stays flexible in the long run
- Offers quick and permanent repair
Cons
- May have a peculiar smell
- May be messy
"I have used multiple types of glue to repair my footwear, and none of them have come close to creating a bond like this one. Although slightly tacky, this glue has helped me revive old shoes and secure loose soles in no time."
5. Best Clear:Barge All-Purpose Glue Cement
Image: Barge The all-purpose glue cement offers a powerful waterproof bond and is suitable for leather, PVC, vinyl, polyurethane, synthetic, cotton, and woven fabrics. This glue dries clear and quickly and does not freeze. If you need further convincing, check out this video, which explores a reviewer testing the glue.
Pros
- Great for weather stripping
- Stays intact when left open for four hours
- Dries within ten minutes
- Neoprene-based
- Great shoe adhesive for synthetic soles
Cons
- May not be child-friendly
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The 988 positive reviews on Amazon are proof that this product meets customers' expectations.
6. Best Stain -Free:Angelus Clear Shoe Cement
The tried-and-tested Angelus all-purpose, clear shoe cement works on a variety of materials such as leather, rubber, vinyl, fabrics, plastic, and more. It does not leave any noticeable stains. You need to apply the glue and let it sit for 15 minutes before pressing the surfaces together. For best results, leave the item to dry for 24 hours before wearing it.
Pros
- Comes with a built-in brush applicator
- Solution is extremely durable
- Suitable for DIY and professional use
- Creates a thin layer and dries quickly
Cons
- May not dry clear
- Packaging may be hard to open
"This glue has helped me fix everything from workout shoes to sandals. Although its application requires patience, its performance has been impressive. Plus, the quick dry feature is much appreciated."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 970 independent reviewers on Amazon have acknowledged the product's durability and functionality.
7. Best Low-Odor:Loctite Extra Time Control Super Glue Gel
Loctite’s super glue is resistant to shock, vibration, extreme temperature changes, and impact, making it ideal for a variety of materials. Specially formulated with toughened rubber, it adds a shine to the item. The low-odor formula sets within seconds, is transparent on drying, and creates a waterproof bond. It bonds all kinds of materials with extra-long repositioning time, reducing the chances of glued fingers.
Pros
- Offers more time to align
- Works on porous surfaces
- Dries transparent in 15 seconds
- Available in two sizes
- Patented control applicator
Cons
- May dry quickly if not closed
- Tube may be smaller than expected
"This glue's innovative bottle design and gel-like consistency have made precise application a breeze. It's worked on various footwear, and the clear formula keeps my shoes from looking patched up. Overall, it has proven to be a convenient product to have."
Quick tip8. Best Long -Lasting:Kabber Bond Glue
The professional-quality glue from Kabber has an advanced polyurethane formula for shoe repair. This multipurpose glue is among the best glue for shoes, as it offers a durable, strong bond and is suitable for rubber soles and leather shoes, especially activewear. It is a long-lasting, water-resistant, and flexible glue that dries quickly and forms a durable seal.
Pros
- Comes with instructions for usage
- Can survive extreme temperatures
- Works without a hardener or thermal activation
- Suitable for professional use
Cons
- May not be great for porous surfaces
"This glue has come in handy for repairing small rips and attaching buckles and other add-ons to my shoes. However, its drying time is rapid, so you may have to stick things promptly. Overall, it's been a reliable option to enhance the longevity of my footwear."
9. Best Clog-Free:E-Z Bond Premium Super Glue Bundle
E-Z Bond is a cyanoacrylate adhesive that can form durable and strong bond with metal, plastic, wood, ceramic, etc. It has a cure time of less than a minute and has a thin viscosity and does not clog. Further, it is long-lasting and ideal for repairing your beloved shoes.
Pros
- Can be paired with CA accelerators
- Has a long shelf life
- Excellent penetration capabilities
- Can work on tight joints
Cons
- May be a bit runny
10. Best Quick-Drying:Bloch Unisex Pointe Shoe Glue
Suitable for pointed shoes, you need to apply a thin layer of the glue to the toe box or the shank. The quick-drying glue can set in 10-20 seconds, making it among the best glue for shoes that are effective and quick.
11. Best Durable:Shoe-Fix Shoe Glue
This shoe glue is fast-acting and can bond a variety of materials such as leather, plastic, wood, vinyl, and more without the need for clamping. Its non-expanding formula creates a flexible and moisture-resistant bond, making it suitable for repairing boots, heels, sandals, etc. Moreover, the durable glue for shoe soles comes in a resealable tube, enabling you to carry it when hiking, camping, or cycling.
Pros
- Clear-drying
- Heat-and-cold-resistant
- Easy to apply
- Drip-free nozzle
Cons
- Some might find the consistency watery
- Some may not like its smell
How To Choose The Right Shoe Glue?
Consider the following points when buying shoe glue.
- Drying time: Super glues cure and dry within a minute, ideal for holes and minor fixes. Larger repairs like reattaching soles require a more flexible adhesive, needing the glue to be applied and dried before sticking the surfaces together. Check the drying time before purchasing it and adding it to your shoe repair kit.
- Waterproof: Make sure the glue provides a waterproof bond for optimum quality assurance and to keep the shoe from falling apart when it comes in contact with water. Standard glues, including neoprene cement, urethane, and cyanoacrylates, usually have waterproof properties.
- Material: Check the shoe material and ensure it is compatible with the glue. Check the packaging for the information. Most glues are suitable for leather, canvas, vinyl, plastic, suede, and rubber. For instance, if you are looking for a glue to repair your shoes with canvas soles, choose a dedicated shoe glue for canvas soles.
- Versatility: Ensure the glue is versatile to use on any fabric and materials. All-purpose glues are suitable for fixing other household items.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is shoe glue the same as super glue?
No, they are not. Shoe glue becomes soft and flexible when dry, making it an excellent option for repairing footwear. Super glue, on the other hand, becomes brittle when dried and has chemicals that can irritate or burn your skin.
2. How should I fix peeling shoes?
To fix your peeling shoes, sandpaper the shoes to remove any hanging peels, and fill the gaps with matching color paint or permanent marker. Next, rub some oil on them or paint them with shoe varnish to give them a shine. Let the shoes dry overnight.
3. Can hot glue fix peeling shoes?
Hot glue might work as it is a strong adhesive with waterproof properties, but it is not a permanent solution to peeling shoes. Also, one wrong move and the extreme heat of the glue can stain the shoes or burn the skin.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Poulami Nag, the author of this article, has compiled this list of the best shoe glues that can come in handy anytime, anywhere. These best-selling and consumer-tested glues are good additions to your shoe sole repair kit, as they are formulated to mend most broken or torn shoes and can also be applied to most materials without ruining their texture. Poulami has also included a buying guide to help you pick the right glue.
The Bottom Line
Shoe glues are a must-have as they save you from the hassle of going to a cobbler or investing in a new pair every time the sole of your shoe comes off. Regular shoe glues take considerable time to dry, so it would help if you looked for shoe glue that dries quickly. You may also invest in waterproof glue and ensure it is compatible with the material of your shoes. Our top picks are the Boot-Fix Shoe Glue, which is suitable for various materials, the Gear Aid Shoe Repair Glue with Aquaseal SR for its water- and abrasion-resistant properties, and the quick-drying Barge All-Purpose Glue Cement, which offers a powerful waterproof bond. With the best shoe glues, you no longer have to say goodbye to your favorite pair of shoes.
Infographic: Factors To Consider When Selecting A Shoe Glue
When it comes to maintaining and fixing your shoes, shoe glue is a useful product to have in your toolbox. However, it might be challenging to decide which shoe glue is ideal for your needs, given the wide variety available on the market. This infographic highlights things to consider while choosing a shoe glue. Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
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