Boots are an essential part of any fashionista or winter fashion. They give you a sense of bad-assery, and they keep your feet warm and dry, but there’s one problem: they can get really squeaky. You don’t want to be the only one at the party who isn’t having fun and dancing because their boots are making so much noise that it’s distracting everybody! This post will give you some tips on how to make boots stop squeaking.
When wearing boots, it can be annoying when they squeak. In addition to being annoying for you and those around you, this could also be bad for your footwear. There are many factors that cause boots to make this irritating noise. One of the most common reasons is the moisture in your boots’ lining or seams. You may have a problem with a cracked or missing rubber sole on your boots, or the fit might not be right for you.
It could also be that your socks are too thick and block the ventilation around your feet. All of these issues can lead to boot squeaking, but here’s how are a few ways of how to stop your boots from squeaking.
Why Are Your Boots Squeaking?
Before going any further, it would be nice to understand why your boots are making that squeaking sound. The primary reason this irritating sound comes about is the vibrations caused when two surfaces rub against each other. For example, when you step on the brakes of a vehicle and you hear that loud screeching noise. “That sound is caused by too much friction.”
The same happens when your boots squeak! Either there is friction between your inner sole and the outer sole or tension between your outer sole and surface (ground).
Now that you understand why your boots are making that weird noise, below are some other reasons your boots might generate that squeaking sound.
- You have bought new boots.
- Old shoes’ deterioration (wear and tear)
- You have water or moisture in your boots.
- The sole’s texture is a little too slick (smooth).
- Wearing your boots with no socks
- Shoelaces are generating squeaking.
- Boots do not fit properly.
How To Make Boots Stop Squeaking
Below is a list of basic solutions to assist you in resolving the squeaky boot issue.
1. Sprinkle Baby Powder
Try to pay attention to where the sound is coming from while you walk around in your boots. This can be challenging, but if you notice the noise coming from the inside of your shoes, it’s most likely due to friction between the inner soles and the bottom part.
Walking causes the insoles to rub against the rubber soles, causing a squeaky noise. You can easily reduce friction between them by using baby powder to create a protective coating. But keep in mind that not all boots come with detachable insoles or liners
Remove the inner soles gently and apply the powder to the entire inner bottom part of the boot. This accomplishes two goals: it reduces friction and removes any excess moisture.
Allow the shoe to ‘rest’ for a day or two to fully absorb the powder, and then dust out any remaining powder before putting back the insoles.
2. Break your Boots if they are New!
If your boots are spanking new, don’t wear them to work or party immediately. Give them time to break in.
One benefit of breaking in new boots is that it allows them to mold to your feet. It also aids in the softening of the boots.
Wearing your shoes around the house frequently before the big day is one of the easiest methods to break them in. This will help them become accustomed to walking.
3. Sanding the Outer Soles
Lightly scrape the soles with 60-120 grit sandpaper using the palms of your hands to create a less consistent grip. When walking over smooth surfaces like tiles or polished concrete, this will keep your boots from squeaking.
The soles will become a little smoother as a result of this, but don’t worry about slipping. The soles won’t lose their grip after a modest sanding.
When using this step, be cautious. You don’t want to put too much pressure on the soles and wind up harming them.
4. Manual Air Dry your Boots
Hanging your boots in a warm, dry area is the best way to dry them manually. Remove the inside liner to speed up the drying process. Simply place the shoes on a coat rack by the laces and let them dry.
While it may seem like a good idea to leave them out in the sun, the sun’s heat can actually destroy leather boots. Simply hang them in a room away from direct sunshine and wait for the squeaky problem to go away.
Preventions of boot slouching in closet
5. Applying Conditioning Oil
Naturally, you can tell when something is squeaky. The same goes with boots. If your boots are regularly squeaking, consider treating them to enhance wearability.
Applying conditioning oil, often known as boot oil conditioner, softens the boot and makes wearing it more enjoyable. The boot becomes softer, and it’s less likely to squeak owing to friction and rigidity.
Remove the laces from your boots and clean them well. Please make sure all dirt and filth are removed from the shoes and allow them to dry. Once the boots are ready, start applying conditioning oil with a clean microfiber cloth.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How Long Do New Boots Squeak?
Most boots lose their squeak as they break-in; however, this takes time. Depending on how often you wear them, it may take days or weeks for your boots to naturally quiet.
2. Why do my Boots’ Heels Creak as I Walk?
Friction between the insole and outsole, or the outsole and the ground causes heel squeaking. In most cases, a little powder or a short sanding or dryer sheet can do the trick.
Squeaky boots are both irritating and annoying. The good thing is that the issue is typically easy to fix. The goal is to pinpoint the source of the squeaky sound and then use the most ideal solution to fix the issue.
If your boots still squeak after you’ve done everything, you may need to approach the firm that made or sold them and request for an exchange. Another option for how to make boots stop squeaking is to visit your local boot cobbler.