How to Repair Rubber Boots: The Ultimate Guide

Luckily for you, there are multiple ways to repair rubber boots.

Whether there’s a crack, a leak or the sole has come away, knowing how to repair rubber boots is a god-send, especially if you aren’t close to home or a store.

It only requires you to follow a few important steps using a specially designed rubber boot care kit.

The primary ingredient you’ll need is a glue or a urethane adhesive, but we’ll get onto the details of those shortly.

Right now, we’ll cover how to repair rubber boots in these situations:

• Fixing splits or cracks.
• Repairing rubber boots on-the-go.
• Sole repair.
• Fixing rain rubber boots.
• Leaking rubber boots.

 

The Easy Way to Fix Splits and Cracks on Your Rubber Boots

Splits and cracks occur in rubber boots purely due to wear and tear.

Usually, the problem starts at the ankle before spreading to other parts. This is because the ankle area is where the boot flexes the most when walking.

It’s not your fault!

Sharp objects, such as nails, metallic objects and broken glass, are also responsible for causing cracks and splits.

As a result, they make your boots less effective when it comes to protecting your feet.

You can easily repair a punctured or cracked rubber boot with rubber boot kits. The process is straightforward and timeless, but we’ve included a step-by-step process below for you.

Besides, if you’ve checked out our article on how to fix holes in shoes, you’ll be well-versed in how to fix your rubber boots.

Pro Tip:

• Repair in a well-ventilated area, especially outdoors, to protect yourself from inhaling harmful glue fumes. 

Required Equipment

• Piece of dry cloth.
• Warm, soapy water.
• Shoe Goo urethane adhesive.
• Wooden stick/brush.
• Light grain sandpaper.
• Masking tape.
• Pair of rubber gloves.
• Soup or drink can.

Procedure

1. Use soapy water to clean the surface of your rubber boots. The cleaning should remove all dirt and dust, including stains.
2. Take a piece of dry cloth and wipe the boots dry. 
3. Using masking tape, mark out the boot’s section you want to repair. Place the tape at least 2 inches away from the splits or cracks on all sides. The tape secures the hole you want to repair while sealing off the other parts of your boots.
4. Carefully sand the damaged area you want to apply the glue to. The sanding will make the affected area rough to promote better adhesion.
5. Put your gloves on to protect your hands against the glue’s harsh chemicals.
6. Take the Shoe Goo and apply gently around the crack.
7. Using a stick or brush, spread the glue across the crack while extending it on either side. Spreading the glue ensures you create a firm seal to prevent further cracking and splitting.
8. Gently roll a can of soup or drink over the cracked area to flatten it to eliminate all air bubbles. Doing so will help create an extra-tight seal.
9. Once done with applying the glue, remove the tape carefully to allow the rubber boot to dry out for about 24 hours.

 

How to Repair Rubber Boots On-The-Go

Taking a few adhesive patches with you can help you perform a quick repair on your boots.

A pack of Bell Automotive Monkey Grip Patches will make your task quick and effortless because they’re flexible, made of rubber cement and allow natural movement.

Required Equipment

This can be a bit tricky to repair while out and about since you’ll need to have these items to hand:

• Clean water.
• Clean cloth.
• Gorilla super glue.
• A pack of adhesive patches.

Procedure

1. Clean the cracked area using clean water to prepare for the repair. Dry it using a piece of clean cloth.
2. Apply glue on the punctured area. Spread the glue a little farther away from the split or crack to avoid more cracking.
3. Marry the patch to the hole to seal it.
4. Apply a little pressure on the patch, starting from the edges moving inwards.
5. Move your fingers back and forth along the patch to achieve a better seal.
6. Let the patch dry for about 10 minutes before using your boots again.

Pro Tips:

• Prioritize fixing your rubber boot while out and about to prevent it from getting worse.

• During repair, prevent the boot’s lining from damage by keeping it dry.

 

How to Repair Rubber Boots’ Soles 

Having to repair your rubber boots’ soles is a rarity, but you should still be prepared with this sole repair hack.

The good news is that you can easily repair a sole on your boots using a urethane structural adhesive, such as the Norton SpeedGrip.

You can also use Gorilla Super Glue Gel to create an everlasting flexible bond between the sole and main part of your rubber boot.

Required Equipment

• Clean water.
• A clean piece of cloth.
• Norton SpeedGrip.
• Boot-Fix Shoe Glue.
• Wooden stick or brush.
• Sandpaper.
• C-clamp.

Procedure

1. Clean your rubber boot thoroughly with water.
2. Dry it using a piece of clean cloth.
3. Use the sandpaper to make the areas that require gluing a bit rough. The sanding will help the adhesive to provide a firm bond. 
4. Spread the glue over the sole’s entire contact surface area—where the sole meets the main part of the boot—via a wooden stick or brush.
5. Join the two pieces together.
6. Use a C-clamp to exert some pressure on the sole and upper to achieve a powerful bond.
7. Let the glue dry for a few minutes, or as instructed on the product.
8. Wipe excess glue from the repaired area before wearing your boot.

 

Is It Possible to Repair My Rubber Rain Boots?

Yes, it’s possible to repair your rubber rain boots when they get cracks or splits. Repairing rubber rain boots isn’t a challenge if you have the right equipment and material.

To make your repair successful, grab Shoe Goo glue designed for bonding shoes and soles.

Required Equipment:

• Shoe Goo glue.
• Dish soap.
• Clean water.
• Ice cubes.
• Duct tape.

Procedure: 

1. Start by cleaning the boots’ surface with soapy water to get rid of loose dirt and dust.
2. Dry the surface with a clean piece of cloth.
3. Place a piece of duct tape on the leaks inside the boot.
4. Apply Shoe Goo glue to the outer section of the hole.
5. Let the glue settle for at least one hour before removing the tape from the inside.
6. You can use ice cubes to smoothen out the glue before it dries out to make your repair look professional.
7. Let the Shoe Goo glue cure for 24 hours before wearing the boots again.

 

How Do You Fix a Leaky Rain Boot?

Repair your leaking rubber boots with silicone adhesive. Whether it’s a small hole or a cut, you just have to patch it up.

The advantage of using this flexible adhesive is that it remains strong even after drying out. It also makes your rubber boots more resistant to water or any other moisture.

Required Equipment

• Clean water.
• Low Suds Soap or regular dish soap.
• Silicone adhesive.
• Repair patch.

Procedure

1. Wash the boots using soapy water.
2. Rinse well with clean, fresh water.
3. Let them completely dry for a better adhesive bond.
4. Once dry, apply a patch or silicone adhesive to the leak.
5. Allow the glue to dry following the manufacturer’s guidance.
6. If the holes are bigger, use a repair patch to seal them.
7. Squeeze the patch/cover over the holes using your fingers to prevent air bubbles from forming underneath.
8. Give your rubber boots 48 hours to cure before wearing them.

 

General Care for Your Rubber Shoes

Why not take some steps to reduce the chance of your rubber boots getting damaged in the first place?

Despite rubber being incredibly durable, your rubber boots still need proper cleaning and conditioning.

Below are a few helpful tips and hacks to make your boots last.

Rubber Boot Cleaning

Clean your rubber boots’ outer surface weekly to keep them in excellent condition. Use water with a soft cloth or sponge to remove all the debris, mud or dirt from the exterior. 

You can also get rid of tough mud and grime by using a powerful outdoor hose and dishwashing liquid. Then, scrub them with the help of a brush and a scraper for better results. By doing so, you’ll protect your footwear from cracking, splitting or wearing out.

How Do I Care for the Inside of My Rubber Boots?

You can take good care of the inside of your rubber boots by regular cleaning to keep away odors. If you overlook this part, you’re likely to have smelly and sweaty feet. 

Simply use a teaspoon of detergent mixed with luke-warm water and wipe the boot’s inside. To dry, wipe with a dry cloth and leave it to air dry for 30 minutes or so.

Of course, you can double-up with the internal care by spraying vinegar inside the boots to absorb the unpleasant smell. You can also use a Shoe Odor Eliminator to get rid of foot odor from your boots.

Note: Avoid using vinegar on the rubber part of your boot since it can soften it.

Boot Conditioning

Another way to prolong the lifespan of your rubber boots is by conditioning them regularly. 

Here are some tips to follow:

• Sunlight: Don’t expose your rubber boots to direct sunlight or high temperatures—cracks can form from such exposure.
• Conditioner: Condition your shoes every few months using a high-quality rubber conditioner, such as the 303’s Rubber Seal Protectant & Conditioner. After applying the conditioner to your pair of boots, wash off the excess before allowing them to dry overnight.
• Natural dry: Leave your rubber boots to dry naturally before using them, or use a towel. 

Storage

Don’t leave your rubber boots outside for too long because the temperature changes may stretch them.

Instead, store them in a cool and insulated place until the next use. At the same time, keep them in an upside-down or upright position to prevent them from cracking or splitting.

 

Professional Boot Repair

While the above rubber boot repair fixes are excellent, sometimes there’s no bringing your boots back from the dead.

Some cracks and punctures may turn out to be too complex for you to repair, despite your best efforts.

If this is the case, you’ll have no choice but to visit a cobbler.

They have the experience and know-how to seal and fix different types of cracks, splits and punctures. Although their services may cost an arm and a leg, rest assured that the outcome will be worth every penny—likely cheaper than buying a new high-quality pair of rubber boots!

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can You Use Flex Seal on Rubber Boots?

Yes, you can use Flex Seal on rubber boots. It’s a liquid rubber sealant coating and is a good option to use in any methods we recommend on how to repair rubber boots. We don’t recommend it as a sole product, but instead, use it in conjunction with the glues and repair products we’ve covered.

Is WD 40 Bad for Rubber?

WD-40 isn’t bad for rubber. In fact, it’s recommended for most surfaces, including rubber. Take note that WD-40 is a lubricant, though, NOT a cleaning product. With this in mind, use it to clean rubber boots before repairing them, rather than doing any repairing itself. It’s particularly good at getting tar off shoes.

Will Vinegar Soften Rubber?

While you can use it to clean the inside of your rubber boots, vinegar can soften rubber seals. Applying this to rubber boots, we advise you avoid using vinegar to clean the outside of your boots, but you can use it to clean the internal fabric.

 

Conclusion

Know you’re clued-up on how to repair rubber boots, hopefully, you won’t throw yours away when you find them cracked, broken or warped.

These methods will help you repair your boots at home or on-the-go without incurring enormous costs.

All you need is the right equipment, with a shoe repair adhesive being the central product of most methods.

Let us know which method has worked for you. Fingers-crossed you’ll now give your rubber boots a new lease of life!