If you live in an area where it rains a lot, or if you live in an area that snows a lot or if you work in an area where the floors are slippery, then you’d want to know how to make shoes non-slip. Also, new shoes, especially those with a leather or plastic lower sole, are just as slippery as old shoes that have been worn completely smooth.

Apart from that, slippery shoes can also lead to you hurting yourself and tripping and causing damage in whatever is around you. Despite this, you do not necessarily need to throw away a good shoe because the problem can be easily solved by adding some traction to your shoes through several hacks.

If you struggle to make your shoes slip-resistant, Vessi shoes can be an excellent alternative. Our shoes are waterproof and provide the additional benefits of being lightweight and stable on wet and slippery surfaces. For instance, Vessi Everyday Sneakers have a slip-free Herringbone grip with etched grooves to keep out water and enhance traction on snow or wet surfaces for optimal balance and stability.

If you already have a pair of shoes that have a slippery texture, then it’s time to understand how to non-slip your boots.How to Make Shoes Non-Slip

1. Breaking in outsoles

One of these methods involves what I would like to refer to as ‘marring’ or ‘modifying’ your outsole to be able to get a better grip on the surface of the shoe. If increasing the roughness slightly is acceptable in order to make your surface non-slip, the following strategies can be useful for regularly improving adhesion:

a) Scuffing the outsoles on abrasive surfaces

There are several measures that can be taken in order to prevent shoes from being slippery on smooth surfaces of the ground; this will involve roughing up the outsoles. This can be done by brushing your shoes whether walking or merely dragging the soles across a coarse surface like concrete, gravel, rock or paving stones, solid ground or earth. Coarser surface on the outsole patterns are raised and removes in order to increase the friction level and this will eliminate the possibility of slipping on a slippery surface. One of the advantages of this method is that it can be applied on a new pair of shoes.

However, you should use this method should with caution. As for the outsoles, if they are scuffed and rubbed too much, the outsole material wears out and the shoe is ruined. The aim in the process is only to make the sole a little worn out so as to have a rough surface which you can counter-traction with while not affecting the durability of the shoe.

b) Using sandpaper

Sandpaper can be used to scratch outsoles of shoes easily and in a shortest span of time. Sanding makes a feel that produces more friction whenever you are walking on such slippery regions with shoes. You need only a piece of about 50-grit sandpaper and your shoes.

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Here is how to use sandpaper to scuff the shoes' outsoles:

1. Have a firm grip on the shoe.

2. Rub the sole gently using the sandpaper. Do not press hard because you don't want to damage the outsole material.

3. Keep rubbing, spending more time on the parts making contact with the ground till you obtain an even coarse texture.

c) Using nail file

A nail file may seem like an unusual tool for this and in fact they are not best suited for scuffing a shoe sole but they are efficient. Even the metal part of a nail file is suitable for scraping the bottom of the shoe just like you would use sandpaper. If you desire to scuff more localized areas to save more time and have a way more accurate texture, then you need to choose a nail file.

Should you need to abrade your outsoles using nail files then run the nail file along the sole’s surface but ensure that it is hard enough for the purpose of filing the sole properly. The most suitable to use with this method is the coarse metal files as they are more resistant and portable.

d) Scoring the bottoms

Scoring the outsoles of your shoes will give you a better grip when walking on slippery grounds. You can make minor scratches or cuts on the outsole's surface to create a rougher texture providing more grip. You will need a sharp object like a razor blade, knife, or box cutter to score the outsole.

Ensure you don't make deep cuts in the rubber sole. Also, we don't recommend this method for new shoes because there's a high chance of ruining the outsole.

Here is how to score your shoes' outsoles:

1. Clean the shoe soles and let them air-dry completely.

2. Hold your shoe firmly with the outsole facing up.

3. Score the sole in diagonal lines. You can also use vertical lines or snake patterns.

4. Score again in diagonal lines in the opposite direction.

2. Using adhesive bandages

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If you are looking for a less permanent way of putting traction on shoes, adhesive bandages are the answer. They are cheap and easy to use. By putting the sticky side down on the outsoles of your shoes, the rough surface on the band-aid helps grip the ground, so your feet stay on it!

Follow these steps to use this method the right way:

1. Clean the shoe's outsole and let it air dry for two to three hours.

2. Peel off the adhesive bandage's protective coverings.

3. Stick the adhesive bandages diagonally across the outsole and one across the heel.

4. Press down on the bandages firmly for a few minutes to ensure they are securely attached.

5. You can use the shoes immediately, but it is best to let the adhesive bandages sit for a few hours or overnight before wearing them.

3. Using grip pads

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Purchasing grip pads are one of the best choices when it comes to a non-invasive method of making your shoes anti-slip. These tiny anti-slip mats affix perfectly to the outsole of a shoe and give a firm hold. Rubber outsoles or a gritting surface of some form is used on them to protect your soles. Further, they do not apply any alterations on the structure of the sole and can be used for shoes with old and new soles.

Here is how you should use grip pads:

1. Clean the shoe sole and let it dry completely.

2. Remove the adhesive backing of the grip pad.

3. Stick the grip pads to the outsole of your shoe on the heel and toe grips in front.

4. Press down on the pad firmly for a few minutes.

5. Leave the shoes for 12 to 24 hours for the grip pads to adhere properly.

Grip pads come in different shapes and sizes, so ensure you get the right ones for your shoes. If the grip pads peel off over time, you can use a shoe adhesive to re-apply them. Just ensure you remove all the old adhesives before applying the new layer.

4. Using hairspray

Hairspray is another one which is so simple that one can do it to make the shoes non-slip. It has a chemical solvent to make the outsole stickier to enhance the surface’s contact nature. As much as hairspray can work as a temporary solution, it can get rather cumbersome, and may not offer much traction during wet times as it washes off.

Here is how to use hairspray to make shoes slip-resistant:

1. Clean your outsoles and air dry.

2. Spray a generous layer of hairspray onto the outsole of your shoes. Please avoid spraying it on the upper part of the shoe.

3. Let the hair spray dry and become tacky.

5. Using traction spray

Another great way of increasing shoe traction is through traction sprays also commonly referred to as grip sprays. They are chemically formulated to enhance friction between the shoe and the slippery surface of the floor. Traction sprays can be used during winter period, when driving is difficult because of wet and icy surfaces. Nevertheless, the sprays cannot last longer and will fade off at some point; therefore, you could be needing to purchase lots of it if you need to use the sprays frequently.

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You can use traction spray on dress shoes, sneakers, or winter boots. Ensure you read the instructions before applying it to your shoes, as non-slip sprays can be dangerous or damaging if used incorrectly, and ruining your shoes is the last thing you want.

Here is how to use the traction spray:

1. Clean the outsole of your shoe correctly.

2. Spray the sole with the traction spray evenly. Do not overspray!

3. Let it dry for three to four hours.

6. Using puff paint

Puff paint is a type of paint generally used in arts and crafts to create a 3D effect. It comes in different colours, and you can use it on rubber, metal, fabric, and wood surfaces.

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You can use puff paint to create patterns or designs on your outsoles. When the paint dries, it creates a rough texture, which is ideal for adding grip to your slippery shoes. Also, it is a fun way to personalize your shoes.

Here is how to use puff paint:

1. Clean the outsoles to ensure they are free of dust and debris.

2. Let them dry completely.

3. Apply a thin, even layer of puff paint. Avoid getting the paint on the upper part of the shoes. But there are safe ways to remove paint from shoes if you accidentally get paint on the upper parts.

4. Let the paint dry for a few hours or overnight before wearing your shoes.

Even though puff paint might last longer than hairspray, you'll need to re-apply it at least weekly for maximum effectiveness

7. Using ice grips

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If you are looking for the best way to never slip in extreme conditions such as rugged mountain roads, frozen and hard ground, or muddy ground, ice grips or snow grips are your best choice. Ice grips are shoe accessories used to provide traction on ice or slippery surfaces, especially in icy or snowy conditions. The Thermoplastic elastomers (TPE) material and iron spikes give you excellent anti-slip performance and are durable.

How to use ice grips:

1. Put the toe cap into the sign on the front.

2. Stretch up the heel to fit your shoes.

3. Pull the strap across the other side of the crampons and tighten it.

While ice grips don't work for all shoe types, for instance, heels, it's an excellent way to transform any fashion or rugged boot into a winter boot, especially when participating in winter sports.

8. Using sand and adhesive spray

Sticking sand to your shoes' outsoles is another way to create friction and make your shoes less slippery. Still, sand can be messy as it will eventually come off the footwear and end up all over the place. It is also not effective in wet and snowy conditions.

1. Clean the shoe's outsole and let it dry.

2. Spray the adhesive spray on the bottom of your shoe.

3. Sprinkle sand over the adhesive coating. The sand should be clean and free of debris.

4. Let the adhesive dry for a few hours.

9. Using salt and rubber glue

When added to your shoes, the salt and rubber glue mixture creates a rough surface to increase traction. This mixture is an excellent method to use on wet surfaces.

Here is how to use salt and rubber glue:

1. Clean the outsoles of your shoes and let them air-dry completely.

2. Pour rubber glue and salt, in equal parts, into a bowl.

3. Mix them thoroughly until well blended to have an even mixture.

4. Use a small paintbrush to apply a thin layer of the mixture over your shoe's soles.

5. Allow it to dry thoroughly before wearing. 

10. Using masking tape

A masking tape can also be your go-to solution for increased traction. But, the tapes can come off easily on wet surfaces. Also, it will lose its adhesive quality over time, and you'll have to replace it.

Here is how to fix slippery shoes using masking tape:

1. Clean the outsoles and let them air-dry completely.

2. Cut two strips of tape.

3. Stick them on the largest part of the bottom of your shoe in an X pattern.

11. Using ankle straps

The smooth shoe soles are not the only reason shoes slip on smooth surfaces. If your footwear fits loosely, you can lose your balance and slip even if you wear non-slip shoes. This is a common problem for footwear like heels, clogs, and sandals.

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Attaching ankle straps to your shoes provides a tighter fit, keeping your ankle and legs at proper angles to prevent the shoe from slipping off your foot. Most ankle straps have adhesive pads to stick them onto the heel counter. Other common types of ankle straps available in the market include elastic, Velcro, and buckles.

12. Go to a cobbler

If you have high-quality shoes or a pair you treasure so much and don’t want to hack, consider taking it to a shoe repairer or professional cobbler. These professionals will tend to your shoes by either re sole or modify the out soles. However, if you get a professional to do it for you or if your shoe is uniquely designed making it harder to fix, it might be costly but it would be money well spent if your shoes become non-slip.

Frequently Asked Questions on How to Make Shoes Non-Slip

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1. How do I make my slippers less slippery?

Slipper soles are not as strong as shoe soles, so non-damaging methods are the best tip to make them slip-resistant. You can use a hot glue gun to glue even lines or evenly spaced dots. You can glue the whole sole or around the heel and the toe front, then let it dry. Another method is to use puff paint to draw patterns on your slipper sole and wait until it's completely dry.

2. How do you fix slippery heels?

The best way to make your heels slip resistant is to use a grip pad on the forefoot and apply hot glue to the heel. You can also use hair spray or scuff the soles using a piece of sandpaper or a nail file.

3. How do you make rubber soles slip-resistant?

Rubber itself is non-slip but its soles come slippery after extended usage or frequent washing. It is recommendable to make your rubber soles less slippery by the following tips namely a hair spray, a traction spray, a hot glue gun or slightly rubbing your soles with sandpaper.

4. How do I make tennis shoes non-slip?

Tennis shoes require a high level of slip resistance; high-quality tennis shoes are usually slip resistant. If your tennis shoes are no longer slip-resistant, consider scuffing the soles, taking them to a cobbler to extend their lifespan, or buying a new pair.