Squeaky shoes

You take your fresh pair of shoes out of the box, ready to steal the show. As soon as you take the first steps with it, you notice that they creak. Your environment immediately notices that you are coming, because they hear you coming from a distance. Why do shoes creak and what can you do about it? We give you tips.

Why do shoes creak?

There are several reasons why a shoe creaks. Sometimes it's novelty of the shoe and it's a matter of walking out. Moisture or wear and tear are other common causes of squeaky and creaky shoes.

Prevent creaky shoes

If your shoes have recently gotten wet, it's important to let them dry thoroughly. Not in the sun, because that can discolour them. Not near the heating, because this can cause cracks in the leather. Let them dry at room temperature or in a cloth bag. If necessary, remove the laces and open them. That way moisture doesn't stand a chance and your shoes will crack less quickly.

Cracking due to wear

When your shoes wear out, for example at the heel, there is a good chance that they will crack. In that case, it is best to visit a shoemaker to see if this can be remedied. Are the shoes at the end of their tether? Then it's time for a new pair of leather shoes.

What to do with creaking shoes?

Does the creaking sound continue? First check where the sound is coming from. Is the sound coming from the sole, the left shoe, the right shoe, or both? Check the sole, tongue, laces and the rest of the shoe.

If the heel of the shoe is loose, it can still be glued. This can be done with superglue or rubber cement, but it is a meticulous job. If you're not careful, the glue will drip all over the shoe. Let the cobbler do it if you don't dare do it yourself.

If the soles squeak on the inside, there is a good chance that there is friction between the inner and shoe sole. As a result, moisture enters the shoe and that causes the sound. A solution for this is the use of talcum powder. This powder absorbs moisture, so that the squeak disappears.

When you take the insole out of the shoe, you can sprinkle some talcum powder on the sole of the shoe. Then put the insole back on and there is a good chance that the shoe will no longer creak. Can the insole not be removed from the shoe? Then carefully sprinkle some talcum powder on the sides of the shoes.

Does the tongue of the shoe creak? Talcum powder also works by sprinkling it between the tongue and the laces. No talcum powder at home? Cornstarch gives the same effect.

Allow air to escape from the sole

Does talcum powder not help and does the sole still creak? Then there may be too much air in the sole of the shoe. This is especially the case with sneakers with thick soles. By poking a hole with a needle in the bottom of the sole, you let the air escape. As a result, there is a good chance that the shoe will no longer creak and squeak.

Maintain your leather shoes

With smooth leather shoes it is important to maintain them. By keeping them greased, you not only ensure that the chance of cracks and scratches is smaller, but the squeak also disappears. That way you can enjoy your leather shoes for longer and you will not be bothered by annoying noises. Is it time for a new pair?