Resoling Luxury Shoes: Leather vs Rubber Soles

A good pair of shoes can last a decade or more if it is resoled when needed.

Signs you need a resole

• A thinning soft spot at the ball of the foot.
• A hole or crack in the sole.
• Heels worn down to the nails.

Leather soles

Pros: elegant, breathable, traditional. Cons: slippery in the rain and wears faster on concrete.

Rubber soles

Pros: grip, water resistance, durability. Great for rainy Manila streets. Cons: a slightly less formal look.

Protective half soles

A thin rubber layer added over a new leather sole gives you the best of both.

Heels and heel tips

For women's heels, replacing heel tips early protects the heel block from damage.

FAQ

How many times can a shoe be resoled? Well-made shoes can be resoled several times.

Can designer heels be resoled? Yes, including red-bottom styles with matching sole options.