When your favourite pair of shoes starts to come apart, you don’t always need to replace them - sometimes, the right adhesive can give them a new lease of life. Whether it's a detached sole, a worn-out heel or a split upper - using the best glue for shoes can save you money and keep your footwear going for longer.

But with so many adhesives on the market, how do you know which one is best for your repair? In this guide, we’ll cover the three main types of glue: super glue, rubber cement and contact adhesive - explaining their pros and cons so you can make the best choice for your shoes.

What to Look for in Shoe Glue

  • Flexibility – Shoes bend and flex as you walk, so you need an adhesive that moves with the material rather than cracking.
  • Water Resistance – If your shoes will be exposed to rain or moisture, choose a glue that provides a waterproof bond.
  • Durability – A strong, lasting hold is essential to prevent repeated repairs.
  • Drying Time – Some glues set in seconds, while others require hours to cure fully.

Shoe sole

The Three Best Types of Shoe Glue

1. Super Glue (Cyanoacrylate)

Super glue is a fast-acting adhesive that bonds almost instantly, making it a great option for emergency shoe repairs. It works particularly well on small cracks, loose soles, and separated uppers.

Pros:

  • Quick drying (often within seconds)
  • Creates a strong, rigid bond
  • Ideal for minor repairs

Cons:

  • Can become brittle over time
  • Not the best for flexible materials
  • Can leave white residue if not applied carefully

Best for: Small fixes like sealing cracks or reattaching a loose heel cap.

2. Rubber Cement

Rubber cement is a flexible, rubber-based adhesive that remains pliable even after drying. It’s commonly used for shoe repairs because it provides a strong bond while allowing for some movement.

Pros:

  • Stays flexible after drying
  • Good for repairing rubber soles and leather uppers
  • Easier to remove than other adhesives if needed

Cons:

  • Takes longer to cure compared to super glue
  • May not be as strong as contact adhesive for heavy-duty repairs

Best for: Fixing rubber soles, minor tears, or areas that need some elasticity.

3. Contact Adhesive

Contact adhesive is one of the best choices for long-lasting shoe repairs. It forms a strong, flexible bond between two surfaces and is widely used in shoe manufacturing and professional repairs. Unlike other glues, it requires you to apply it to both surfaces and let it dry before pressing them together.

Pros:

  • Extremely durable and water-resistant
  • Stays flexible, making it ideal for shoes
  • Bonds well with a variety of materials, including rubber, leather, and fabric

Cons:

  • Requires proper ventilation due to strong fumes
  • Takes longer to apply and cure compared to super glue

Best for: Reattaching soles, fixing large sections of detached material, and making permanent shoe repairs.

Shoe repair glue

How to Repair Your Shoes with Glue

  1. Clean the area: Remove dirt, dust, and old glue from the surfaces you’re bonding. Use a cloth and mild cleaner for best results.
  2. Apply the glue: Follow the instructions for your chosen adhesive. Super glue should be applied sparingly, while rubber cement and contact adhesive may require even coverage on both surfaces.
  3. Press firmly: Hold the pieces together for the recommended time. Contact adhesive requires you to wait for it to become tacky before pressing.
  4. Let it cure: Allow the glue to dry fully before wearing the shoes. Some adhesives need several hours to reach their maximum strength.
  5. Test the bond: Before wearing, gently flex the area to ensure the repair is strong and secure.

Final Thoughts

The best glue for your shoes depends on the type of repair you need to make. Super glue is great for quick fixes, rubber cement is perfect for flexible repairs, and contact adhesive is ideal for long-lasting bonds. By choosing the right adhesive and following the proper repair steps, you can extend the life of your favourite footwear and keep them looking great.

So, before you throw out a pair of worn-out shoes, consider giving them a second chance with a reliable shoe glue!