Introduction: How to Repair Hiking Boots

About: hmmm...

Some notes on how I repaired my boots. Includes worn out heels and breaks in the leather along the boundary between the leather upper and the rubber sole.

Step 1: Figure Out What Needs Fixing

The heels were worn out and the leather along the edge of the sole had worn through. (I think this is an indication of poor posture or fit... my feet are probably going to fall off.) The logo also catches on the lacing hooks when I walk.

Step 2: Repair Leather Along Sole

I cut the leather away from the rubber sole. This may or may not be a good idea. If you decide this is for you (and your boots) don't cut yourself in the process.

Step 3: Apply Leather Patch

Stitch edges of the leather together if you can. This is no easy task because leather is tough and one hand will have to work from within your shoe.

Glue in some leather over the cut. You should be able to slip the patch between the leather of the shoe and the rubber of the sole. Use shoe glue that is flexible. Use suede leather that is not finished on either side. The roughness helps the glue stick. Open your window so you don't pass out from the ridiculous solvents in the glue that make it dry unhelpfully fast.

When working with leather, don't use a plastic thimble. See, the purpose of a thimble is to protect the finger that is pushing the back of the needle when you're going through a tough spot. If you push hard enough with a plastic thimble, the back of the needle may puncture your finger.

Step 4: Repair the Heel

I already did an instructable on fixing the heel of a shoe. Briefly, glue in a piece of cloth and stitch it in around the top. See <a href="https://www.instructables.com/id/How-to-Repair-the-Heel-of-Athletic-Shoes/">here</a> for more details.

The Instructables Book Contest

Participated in the
The Instructables Book Contest