Squeaky Shoes: What To Do · Dlf Nova spotify itunes soundcloud amazon deezer podcast spotify itunes soundcloud amazon deezer podcast

Squeaking, smacking, rubbing - some shoes make noises that we want to get rid of. Here is a list of options. First of all: Sometimes only the radical way helps.

OK, squeaky and squeaky shoes are really not one of the most pressing problems in the world. On the other hand: If the shoes squeak really loudly or make a smacking noise, you simply can no longer wear them in some environments, for example in some offices. And what's more: turning shoes into quiet companions is sometimes not that difficult.

Ralf Bienemann, master shoemaker in Düsseldorf, knows possible causes and possible solutions:

1. Loose heel

In the case of shoes with heels, this is usually exactly the cause of the squeaking. When the heel is no longer fully attached to the rest of the shoe, two layers of leather rub against each other, creating a noise. Another possibility: The joint spring below the sole is too loose.

Remedy: Take shoes to the shoemaker. Sometimes the repair is neither time-consuming nor expensive.

2. Insole is too loose

If insoles are in the shoe and they are too loose, they rub against the sole when you walk.

Remedy: Copy the shape of the insert onto paper and cut it out. Place the piece of paper between the sole and the insole.

Alternative: Rub the insoles from below with talcum powder, baby powder or baking soda.

If none of that helps: take shoes to a shoemaker.

3. Tongue has too much play

If the tongue has too much play under the laces, it can rub back and forth.

Remedy: Also talc, baby powder or baking powder. So rub the tongue everywhere where it has contact with other surfaces of the shoe.

4. The sole squeaks

If the sole is responsible for the squeaking, it is usually due to the material or the material mix in combination with some floors.

Remedy: Roughen the sole with sandpaper or spray hairspray on it (only on the sole!). However, that doesn't always help. In case of doubt, the sole must be completely replaced, which, depending on the quality, age and price of the shoes, can be a total loss.