Learning how to fix cleats can save you time and money. It also means less time on the sidelines if you rip your shoes. This guide will explain what you need and how to repair damaged soccer cleats for extended and reliable service.
Are your soccer shoes damaged? Fixing them is cheaper and easier than you might think.
Loctite is the Official Adhesives Partner of the U.S. Soccer Federation. Our high-quality shoe glue makes for easy, quick, strong, and durable soccer cleats repairs.
Breaking in a new pair of soccer shoes can be quite a hassle, so before you throw out your old, damaged pair, follow our guide on how to repair soccer cleats with glue. All you need are a few supplies and the correct techniques, and you will be back on the field in no time.
Manufacturers bond soles to shoes with strong adhesives for durability and performance. However, even the best cleats can fall apart due to various reasons, including:
- Overuse: Soccer cleats go through normal wear and tear during use. However, overuse can lead to faster deterioration. If you use the same pair for training and weekend games, you will likely see signs of damage sooner rather than later.
- Incorrect cleaning and drying: Dirt and moisture are hard on the glue and seams that hold soccer cleats together. Cleaning them regularly will keep them looking fresher longer. However, without the right cleaning technique, you might do more harm than good. Whenever you clean your cleats, ensure that you dry them properly. Use an old newspaper to dry off excess moisture before leaving the shoe to dry naturally in the shade. Avoid drying cleats on the radiator or in a dryer. Too much direct heat can weaken the glue that holds them together.
- Poor fit: Ill-fitting cleats are easily damaged. Wearing smaller shoes will stretch the material and lead to torn seams. On the other hand, oversized shoes get dragged during wear, leading to unnecessary abrasion and damage, especially around the toe area.
- Improper use: Wearing soccer cleats on hard surfaces like concrete or asphalt can lead to damage.
- Cleat hacks: Using hot water, a blow dryer, or a steamer to break in new shoes can weaken the adhesive that attaches to the sole, leading to separation.
You can easily repair damaged soccer cleats at home using shoe glue. You don’t have to throw them out or play in an unsightly pair wrapped in tape! Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to fix cleats.
1. Gather tools and supplies: To complete this project, you will need a few important supplies, including:
- Loctite Shoe Glue
- Jumbo clothespins
- Cleaning cloth
2. Prepare the cleats: Before starting the repair job, make sure they are clean and dry. Using a soft, dry cloth, clean the area to be repaired. Applying glue over a dirty surface will result in a weak bond.
3. Apply adhesive: Use the proper technique to apply shoe glue along the damaged area. Expose the damaged area by pulling back the upper away from the sole. Carefully apply the adhesive along the damaged area. Ensure that you cover the area with a continuous bead of adhesive, without leaving any gaps.
4. Bind the shoe: Press the upper and the sole together after applying glue to create a strong bond. Make sure to press the parts together within five minutes of applying the glue. You can use several jumbo clothespins to hold the shoe together as the glue sets. Wipe away any excess glue using a dry cloth.
5. Leave to cure: Give the glue some time to cure. This adhesive dries in minutes and is fully cured in 24 to 48 hours. For the best results, allow full bond strength to develop overnight before handling.
6. Test fit and enjoy: Once the glue is completely dry, assess the condition of the bond. If you did everything correctly, the shoe should still fit perfectly. Once you are comfortable with every part of this initial assessment, get back to enjoying your time on the field with your newly repaired soccer cleats.
When repairing your cleats, always choose a glue explicitly designed for this application. You are less likely to get the desired results when using other products. Loctite Shoe Glue is specially formulated for permanent shoe repairs. The powerful adhesive is resistant to extreme temperatures, impact, and water. More importantly, it cures to a clear, flexible, and permanent bond that’s invisible to the eye.
The product can be used on a variety of materials, including reinforced polyester, canvas, leather, and rubber. It dries in 5 minutes and cures in 24 to 48 hours, ensuring that you get back on the field as soon as possible. You can also use this glue to patch small holes and even fill gaps in other parts of your cleats, gear, or bag.