How to fix inner sole shoes (Step by Step Guide)

Your shoes’ inner soles work hard every day, providing your feet comfort, support, and stability with every step you take. Over time, they wear out, leading to discomfort, reduced foot support, and sometimes injuries. 

Don’t toss them away! Read this guide to learn how to fix inner sole shoes, restore their comfort, and make them last longer.

So, let’s get started!

Signs Your Inner Sole Shoes Need Repair  

• Cracks or holes in the inner soles  
• Flattened cushioning in comfortable inner soles for shoes  
• Peeling or loose inner soles  
• Uneven wear, especially in running or high-heel shoes  
• If your shoes start making a squeaky sound while walking

How to Fix Inner Sole Shoes 

Step 1: Remove the Old Inner Sole 

Gently detach the old inner sole from the shoe. If it’s loosely attached, you can pull it off with your hands. For tougher bonds, use pliers to grip the edge of the sole while holding the shoe.  

If the inner sole is glued down:  

Use a Flat Tool: Use a spoon, credit card edge, or butterknife to lift the sole without damaging the shoe’s interior.  

Heat the Glue: Warm the glue with a heat gun or hairdryer for a few seconds to loosen its hold.  

Before discarding the old inner sole, take note of its shape, contours, and unique features.

Step 2: Clean the Shoe Interior  

After removing the old inner sole, prepare the shoe for the replacement. 

1. Remove Debris: Use a soft cloth or brush to clean dirt, dust, and any loose particles inside the shoe.  
2. Remove Glue Residue: If dried glue remains on the bottom, dampen a rag with a small amount of nail polish remover or acetone. Gently scrub the area to dissolve and remove the glue. Don’t use too much liquid to prevent damage to the shoe material.  
3. Wipe Down: Clean the entire interior of the shoe to ensure no grime or residue is left behind. For fabric-lined shoes, use a mild soap solution and a damp cloth to refresh the surface.  

Let the shoe dry completely before moving on to the next step.

Step 3: Choose the Right Replacement

Pick a replacement inner sole that suits your needs:  

• Comfort inner soles for all-day wear  
• Half inner soles for shoes if only the heel or toe needs padding  
• Leather inner soles for shoes for a premium feel  

Step 4: Cut the Replacement Sole  

If your replacement inner sole isn’t pre-cut to size, follow these steps:  

1. Match the Size: Place the old inner sole on top of the replacement sole material. Align them to trace the correct shape.  
2. Trace the Outline: Use a pen or marker to outline the old inner sole onto the new material. Ensure both soles are facing upside-down so the marked side ends up on the bottom of the replacement sole.  
3. Cut: Cut along the traced lines with sharp scissors or a craft knife. 
4. Test the Fit: Place the new sole inside the shoe to check the fit. 

Roughen the bottom of the replacement sole and the shoe interior with 120-grit sandpaper. A rough surface improves adhesion when gluing the new sole in place.  

Step 5: Apply Shoe Inner Sole Glue

Choose a reliable shoe sole adhesive. Use a brush or cotton ball to spread an even layer of adhesive onto the shoe base and the underside of the new inner sole. Pay extra attention to the edges for a firm hold.  

Check the product instructions, as some adhesives require time to cure or become tacky before attaching. 

If your Adhesive requires heat to activate, use a hairdryer on a low setting to warm the glue slightly before placement.  

Don’t use too much glue, as excess can seep out and create a mess. 

Step 6: Place the New Inner Sole  

1. Align the Sole: Carefully position the new inner sole inside the shoe. Start at the toe and lay it down toward the heel.  
2. Press Firmly: Apply even pressure to the inner sole, focusing on the edges. Use your fingers to press the sole tightly against the shoe base.  
3. Check the Fit: To confirm the fit, put your foot into the shoe. Press down with your toes, wiggle them, and take a few steps to check alignment.  
4. Allow Adhesive to Cure: Follow the adhesive instructions and let the shoe sit for the recommended curing time, usually 24 hours. Place the shoe in a cool, dry area.

Pro Tip: Stuff the shoe with paper to maintain its shape while the adhesive sets. 

How to Fix a Hole in the Inner Sole of a Shoe   

• Remove the Inner Sole  

Take out the inner sole to expose the hole. If parts of the sole are glued or damaged, carefully trim any loose or frayed sections with scissors.  

• Measure and Cut the Filling Material  

Measure the size of the hole or grid that needs to be filled. Prepare foam rubber or a similar material and cut it to fit snugly into the gap. Double-check the fit and adjust as needed before moving to the next step.  

• Seal the Hole with Tape  

Place a layer of sturdy tape, such as duct or gaffer tape, over the hole from the outside of the shoe. 

• Apply Adhesive

 Use a small spatula or similar tool to spread a thin layer of superglue or a suitable adhesive inside the hole.

• Insert the Filling Piece

Position the foam rubber filling into the hole using a pin or tweezers. Ensure it sits securely and aligns with the shoe’s surface.  

• Seal and Press

Add a final layer of Adhesive to fill any remaining gaps. Use a small tool, such as the edge of scissors, to press the filling. Hold for about 30 seconds.  

• Let It Dry  

Follow the adhesive instructions for drying time. For best results, leave the shoe to sit overnight in a cool, dry place.  

Conclusion

Repairing inner sole shoes is an easy, cost-effective way to extend the life of your favorite footwear. Whether it’s shoe inner sole repair or a hole filling, following the above step by step guide to keep your shoes functional.  

With the right tools, materials, and techniques, you can extend the life of your favorite shoes and enjoy them and new ones.

Don’t let worn-out inner soles slow you down!  

FAQs

Can I repair a hole in the inner sole of my shoe?

Yes, you can repair a hole by filling it with foam rubber, sealing it with Adhesive, and letting it dry properly.

Can I replace the inner sole of high heels or running shoes?

Yes! Choose replacement inner soles for high heels and running shoes to restore support.

Can damaged inner soles cause foot problems?

Yes, worn or damaged inner soles can lead to discomfort, poor support, and foot issues like pain or fatigue.