Identify the problem with your Converse sole
If you’re a fan of Converse shoes, you’ve probably experienced the frustration of a worn-out sole. The most common problem with the sole of Converse shoes is that they wear out faster than the rest of the shoe. This is because the soles are made of a soft rubber material, which can be easily damaged by regular use. The sole of a Converse shoe is also prone to flattening out, which can cause discomfort while walking. In some cases, the sole may even split, which can make the shoe unwearable.
If you’ve noticed any of these issues with your Converse shoes, it’s time to fix the sole. Fortunately, it’s a relatively easy fix that you can do at home with a few simple tools.
The first step is to identify the extent of the problem. Are there small areas of wear on the sole, or is the sole worn out completely? Is the sole flat and lacking in support, or is it still retaining its shape? Is there any visible damage to the sole, such as cracking or splitting?
If the sole is simply worn out, you may be able to improve it with a sole saver. This is a rubber patch that you can attach to the bottom of the shoe, which will protect the sole from further damage. However, if the sole has worn down to the point where it is no longer comfortable to wear, you will need to replace it entirely.
If the sole has flattened out, this can lead to discomfort while walking, as there is no longer enough cushioning between your foot and the ground. This can be fixed by adding a new insole to the shoe. Insoles are available in a range of materials and thicknesses, so be sure to choose one that suits your needs and provides the necessary support.
If there is visible damage to the sole, such as splitting or cracking, you will need to replace it entirely. This is a slightly more involved process, but it is still something that you can do at home with the right tools.
In summary, the most common problem with Converse shoes is a worn-out or flattened sole. If you’ve noticed any of these issues with your shoes, it’s time to fix the sole. The first step is to identify the extent of the problem, and then decide on the best course of action. Whether you need to use a sole saver, add a new insole or replace the entire sole, there are plenty of options available to help you fix the problem and get back to wearing your favorite Converse shoes.
Gather the necessary materials for the repair
If your Converse sneakers’ soles are worn out or damaged, you don’t need to throw them away. Instead, you can fix them yourself with the right materials. Here are the tools and supplies you’ll need to repair the sole of Converse:
- Goo: Choose a strong adhesive, such as Gorilla Glue or Shoe Goo. These adhesives are specifically designed to bond to rubber soles and are available in most hardware stores.
- Scissors: You’ll need these to trim any extra material on the sole of the shoe.
- Painter’s tape: You can use this tape to hold the sole in place while it dries.
- Binder clips: These can be used to hold the sole in place while glue dries in the middle of the sole.
- Sandpaper: 80-grit sandpaper will do the trick, and you’ll use this for necessary roughening to allow for better glue adhesion.
- Liquid rubber: This is a great solution if you find that the soles have worn down significantly, leaking inside. You can find liquid rubber at most shoe stores or online shops.
- Latex gloves: As you’ll be working with adhesive and liquid rubber, it’s highly recommended to wear gloves to prevent injuries or having the glue or liquid rubber stick onto your skin.
- Craft knife: You may need to professionally cut any rips or tears thoroughly.
By gathering all necessary tools and supplies, you will be prepared to fix the sole of your beloved Converse sneakers quickly and conveniently.
Remove the damaged or worn out sole
If the sole of your Converse has been worn out, you can either go for repairing or replacing the sole. If the damage is severe, then you should opt for replacement. However, if the damage is minimal, then the repair option is more feasible. Here, we will discuss removing the damaged or worn-out sole.
The process of removing the sole depends on the construction of the sneaker.
Step 1: First, you need to remove the shoelaces. This will make it easier to work on the sneaker.
Step 2: Then, starting from the heel, you need to remove the stitching on the sole. Use a seam ripper or sharp knife to carefully cut the stitches. Remove all the stitches connecting the sole to the sneakers.
Step 3: When you have removed all the stitches, split the sole from the sneaker. If the sole is glued to the sneaker, gently pry it out using a flathead screwdriver. Slowly and carefully, work around the edge of the sole, until it separates from the sneaker.
Step 4: Clean the upper portion of the sneaker with a dry cloth or brush.
Step 5: If you had to pry out the sole, remove all the remaining bits of glue with glue dissolver or acetone. Be careful not to damage the sneakers while doing so.
You have successfully removed the worn-out or damaged sole, and now you are ready to replace it with a new one!
Apply the new sole to your Converse
So you have already successfully removed the old sole of your Converse, and now it’s time to apply the new one. First, you need to make sure that the sole you purchased fits your shoes properly. It should be around the same size and shape as the original sole, or else it will look awkward and cause discomfort when you wear them. You can trim and adjust the new sole if necessary by cutting it with scissors or a craft knife.
Next, you need to prepare the surface of both the shoe and the sole to ensure that they’ll stick together properly. Use sandpaper or a metal file to roughen up the area where the sole will be attached. This will help to create a stronger bond between the glue and the materials.
Once the surface is ready, it’s time to apply the glue. There are different types of glue that you can use for this, but we recommend using a strong adhesive that can withstand wear and tear, such as a contact cement. Read the instructions carefully and apply the glue evenly on both the shoe and the sole. Be sure to cover the edges and corners well, as these are the most vulnerable areas that tend to come loose first.
After applying the glue, wait a few minutes before attaching the sole to the shoe. This allows the glue to become tacky and easier to work with. Carefully align the sole with the shoe and press down firmly, starting from the center and working your way outwards. Use your fingers or a roller tool to smooth out any bubbles or lumps that may occur.
Finally, let the glue dry completely before wearing the shoes. This may take anywhere from a few hours to overnight, depending on the type of glue and the weather conditions. Avoid bending or flexing the shoe during this time, as it may cause the sole to shift or peel off. Once the glue is dry, your Converse will be ready to wear, and you can enjoy walking confidently knowing your soles are securely attached.