How Much Does It Cost to Resole Boots
Resoling boots is a common practice among boot owners to extend the life of their footwear. Over time, the soles of boots can wear down, leading to discomfort and reduced support. In some cases, it may be more cost-effective to resole a pair of boots than to purchase a new pair. The cost of resoling boots varies depending on several factors, including the type of boot, materials used, and the services provided by the cobbler or repair shop.
The price for resoling a pair of boots can range from $100 to $250, with some specialty boots potentially costing more. Factors affecting the cost of resoling include the type of sole, the complexity of the repair, and the reputation of the service provider. It’s important for boot owners to weigh the cost of resoling against the potential benefits, such as improved comfort, extended life of the boots, and possible cost savings compared to buying new boots.
Key Takeaways
- Resoling boots can extend their life and improve comfort, with costs ranging from $100 to $250.
- Factors affecting the cost of resoling include the sole type, repair complexity, and service provider reputation.
- It’s important to consider the benefits of resoling boots and weigh them against the cost of purchasing new boots.
Factors Affecting Resole Costs
Quality of Boots and Materials
The cost of resoling boots depends on the quality of the boots and the materials used. High-quality boots made from durable materials, such as leather, may require more expensive resoling materials and techniques. On the other hand, boots made from cheaper materials might be less costly to resole, but they may not last as long. For example, resoling leather boots with Goodyear welt construction can cost between $150 and $250.
Work Boots Vs Dress Shoes
Resoling costs can also vary depending on the type of boots, such as work boots or dress shoes. Work boots usually have more rugged construction and require more durable materials for resoling, making their resoling costs higher. Conversely, dress shoes might be less expensive to resole, but they may not be as suitable for rough wear and tear as work boots.
Labor Costs
The labor cost is another factor that can influence the overall resole cost. Expert cobblers and skilled shoe repair professionals might charge more for their services due to their expertise and experience. Additionally, the cost of labor may vary depending on the location of the cobbler’s shop. So, resoling costs can differ based on where you get your boots resoled.
Shipping Charges
If you need to ship your boots to a cobbler for resoling, shipping charges can impact the cost. Shipping costs can vary based on factors such as the distance between your location and the cobbler, the weight of your boots, and the shipping method you choose. Keep in mind that if you’re shipping your boots for resoling, you’ll need to account for shipping costs both to the cobbler and back to you.
Resoling Methods and Prices
Resoling your boots can make them last much longer and keep them comfortable. Different methods are used to resole boots, depending on the type of boot and its construction. Let’s explore some popular resoling methods and their costs.
Goodyear Welt Resole
The Goodyear Welt is a popular method for high-quality boots, such as Red Wing and other welt construction boots. The welt is a strip of leather or other material that’s sewn around the edge of the boot’s upper and the outsole. In this resoling method, the worn-out outsole and midsole are removed, and a new outsole is stitched to the welt and the boot. Goodyear welt resoling typically costs around $80 to $150, depending on the boot and cobbler.
Blake Stitch Resole
Blake stitch is another method of attaching the outsole to the boot’s upper. In this method, the upper, insole, and outsole are stitched together without using a welt. Blake stitch resoling involves removing the worn-out outsole and stitching a new one directly to the upper. This method is generally less expensive than Goodyear welt resoling, with costs ranging from $50 to $100.
Stitchdown Construction Resole
Stitchdown construction boots have their upper folded outward and then stitched to the outsole, eliminating the need for a welt. Resoling these boots involves removing the old outsole and attaching a new one by restitching the upper to the new sole. The cost of stitchdown construction resoling can range from $75 to $125, depending on the boot and the cobbler’s pricing.
Vibram Sole Replacement
Vibram soles are durable rubber outsoles found on many types of boots, including hiking and work boots. Replacing Vibram soles often involves removing the old sole and gluing or stitching a new one onto the boot. The cost of Vibram sole replacement can vary from $100 to $200, depending on the specific sole type and the cobbler’s pricing.
Keep in mind that costs may vary depending on the boot brand, cobbler, and requested service. It’s always a good idea to research and compare prices before choosing a resoling method.
The Resoling Process
Finding a Qualified Cobbler
To begin the resoling process, it’s important to find a skilled cobbler. Cobblers are specialized shoe repair professionals who can restore and repair your boots. You can locate a qualified cobbler by asking friends, checking online reviews, or consulting local shoe repair shops.
Preparing the Boots for Resoling
Once you’ve chosen a cobbler, they will carefully examine your boots. Worn-out soles, damaged insoles, and loose welts are some of the issues that the cobbler will look for. They will then remove the old sole and clean the upper part of the boot.
Fitting a New Insole and Welt
After preparing the boots, the cobbler will take several steps to fit new insoles and welts:
- Replacing the Insole: The cobbler will insert a new insole that fits comfortably within the boot. This provides additional support and improves the overall structure of your footwear.
- Fitting a New Welt: The welt is the strip of material that connects the sole to the upper of the boot. The cobbler will carefully attach a new welt to your boot, ensuring a strong bond between the upper and the new sole.
- Resoling: Finally, the cobbler attaches a new sole, often using glue or stitching. They will also shape and polish the boots, making them look almost new.
Getting your boots resoled by a professional cobbler can extend the life of your footwear and save you money in the long run. Make sure to invest in quality repair services to keep your boots looking and feeling great.
Resoling Hiking and Specialty Boots
Hiking boots and specialty boots like cowboy boots may need resoling after extended use. This process can give new life to your boots and ensure you maintain good traction on various surfaces. In this section, we will discuss the cost of resoling both hiking boots and cowboy boots.
Hiking Boot Resole
Hiking boots often have to endure rough terrain, which can wear out the soles over time. Resoling can extend the life of your favorite hiking boots, potentially for more than five years. The cost for resoling hiking boots generally ranges from $75 to $150 depending on the design and type of sole. Well-known brands like Irish Setter offer high-quality hiking boots with durable outsoles and lug patterns to provide sufficient traction for hikers.
When resoling your hiking boots, make sure to find a cobbler or boot repair company experienced in working with hiking boots. If you can identify the type of sole on your boot, it can help you get more accurate pricing information and make the process smoother.
Cowboy Boot Resole
Cowboy boots can also benefit from resoling, especially if you frequently wear them and rely on their traction and comfort. The cost to resole cowboy boots may vary depending on the style, materials, and cobbler’s expertise.
To give you an idea of how much it costs to resole boots, here are some general price ranges:
- For cowboy boots with a new heel: $40 – $75
- For a complete Goodyear welted boot resole: $150 – $250
Remember, investing in a resoling service can extend the life of your cherished cowboy boots and ensure continued comfort and style.
Considerations and Alternatives
When to Resole Vs Buy New Boots
Resoling boots is a great option when the upper part of your boot is still in good condition while the sole is worn out. Resole costs can range from $50 to $150, which can be cheaper than buying a new pair of high-quality boots. Keep in mind, it might not make sense to resole very cheap boots as the resoling cost can exceed their original price. Consider the boot quality, your attachment to the boots, and their overall condition when deciding whether to resole or buy new ones.
Breaking In New Soles
After resoling your boots, be prepared for a break-in period. Just like a new pair of boots, newly resoled boots might feel stiff and uncomfortable at first, but don’t worry; they’ll become more comfortable as you use them. When breaking in new soles, wear them for short periods and gradually increase wear time. Also, consider using insoles to help adjust the fit and expedite the break-in process.
DIY Resoling Vs Professional Repair
Deciding between DIY resoling and professional repair depends on your expertise, available tools, and the boot construction. Some simple boot repairs, like glued soles, can be done at home using adhesives. However, stitched boots often require a professional repair due to their more complex construction. Factor in the cost of repairing materials, personalized fit, and potential risks when deciding between DIY and professional repair.
When choosing a professional for resoling your boots, look for well-known brands or specialists with good reviews and fair pricing. Remember to fill out a repair form and provide specific instructions to ensure your boots are resoled properly. In case your favorite boots get discontinued, resoling them might be the best option to maintain their precise fit and comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are resoling boots worth it?
Resoling boots can be worth it, especially if the boots are of high quality or hold sentimental value. It’s usually cheaper to resole a pair of boots than to purchase a new pair. Additionally, resoling boots can extend their lifespan and maintain their comfort. However, not all boots are suitable for resoling, and the cost can sometimes outweigh the benefits if the boots are not well made or already in poor condition.
Can you put a new sole on boots?
Yes, you can put a new sole on boots, but it depends on the boot construction and the type of sole you’d like to use. Cobblers can replace soles on Goodyear welted or Blake-stitched boots, while boots with glued soles might be more challenging to resole. It’s essential to consult with a cobbler to determine if your boots can be resoled or not.
How many times can boots be resoled?
Boots can be resoled several times, but this number depends on the boot’s construction and how well they are maintained. Goodyear welted boots, for example, can be resoled multiple times because the welt acts as a barrier between the sole and the upper part of the boot. Always consult with a cobbler for advice on how many times your specific boots can be resoled.
What boots are best to resole?
The best boots to resole are those made with high-quality materials and construction methods like Goodyear welting or Blake stitching. These methods allow for easier sole replacement and result in longer-lasting boots. Some popular brands that manufacture resolable boots include White’s Boots, Red Wing, and Nick’s Boots.
How much to resole work boots?
The cost to resole work boots ranges from $100 to $200, depending on the type of boots and the sole materials used (source). Some cobblers may charge more for specific sole types or if additional repairs are needed.
Cost to resole dress shoes?
Resoling dress shoes can cost between $30 and $60, but this price may vary based on the type of sole needed and the quality of the shoes (source). It’s important to remember that the cost to resole dress shoes can vary depending on the cobbler and the materials used.
