If you live in a region where it rains and snows a lot or work in a place with slippery surfaces, then you'd want to know how to make shoes non-slip. Also, new shoes, especially those with leather or plastic soles, can be frustratingly slippery like older shoes worn smooth by years of wear and tear.

Slippery shoes can cause you injuries and damage items around you. Still, you don't have to dispose of a slick shoe because you can easily add traction to your shoes with just a few 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.

But if you already own a slippery pair of shoes, let's dive into how to make your boots slip-resistant.

How to Make Shoes Non-Slip

1. Breaking in outsoles

This method involves someone scraping or otherwise redoing their outsole so that it offers a better grip than it does when it is slippery. In case you do not want to make your shoe a little rough, other methods described below can be perfect when it comes to improving grip progressively.

a) Scuffing the outsoles on abrasive surfaces

Changing the surface texture of the outsole is one way to see that shoes are non-slip on smooth surfaces is by scuffing it. This can be done by scraping the soles on stones, rocks, tar, cement, brick, solid ground, ground earth or any rough surface. Rubber sole patterns are printed, and scratching the surface these patterns with a rougher surface aids in enhancing the surface’s grip and thereby, the decrease in slipping. This method is very useful in a pair of shoes that has not been worn before.

But you should use this method should with caution. All that needs to be done is scuff out the soles but too much of this wears off the material thus destroying the shoe. The concept here is to just wear the sole a little bit to give it some texture you get better grip, and you don’t siphon off too much strength or stability from your shoe.

b) Using sandpaper

Splash a little water on the shoes and can rub with sandpaper and the outsoles of shoes can be scuffed within a short span of time. Sanding provides texturing and additional traction when you tread with your shoes on, slippery surfaces. You only require a piece of approximately 50 grit sandpaper and the footwear that you intend to polish.

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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 would be the last thing that any shoe owner would expect to work when scuffing a shoe sole, but it does. That way with a metal nail file, you can simply scrape across the bottom of your shoe just like you would scrape across sandpaper. Nail file will help you save time and the texture will be much clearer; you always can scuff the outsole in the areas that get in contact with the floor.

When filing with your nail files, you should sweep the nail file over the surface of the sole lightly but firmly enough to be able to file the sole appropriately. This type of filing is easiest to accomplish with coarse metal files, as those are the longest lasting and most efficient.

d) Scoring the bottoms

When walking on slippery grounds, having scored the outsoles of your shoes will ensure you get a good grip. The outsole is smooth and for this reason one has to intentionally make small scratches or cuts on the surface in other to roughen it to provide grip. For scoring the outsole you will require something like a razor blade, knife or a box cutter.

The cut should not be too deep so as to affect the rubber sole of the shoe. Moreover, we cannot advice this method for new shoes because they will almost definitely destroy 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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Adhesive bandages are perfect for people who prefer a temporary traction on their shoes and for those who don’t want to make significant modifications to their shoes. It is cheaper and easier to use. When you place it sticky side down on the outsoles of your shoes, the texture on the band-aid grabs the ground to keep your feet 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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One of the best ways that you might consider to correct this problem without any harm to your shoes is by getting grip pads. Small anti-slip pads these are easy to attach to the shoe’s outsole and offers a good grip. They are either made from rubber or have some grain on the bottom to protect your soles. Furthermore, people do not need to alter the shape of the sole and applies to both old and new shoes.

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

Another incredibly simple and fast solution to make shoes non-slip is Hairspray. In this case it has a chemical solvent to enhance the adhesion which improves the traction of the out sole. As for hairspray it is also suitable for temporary purpose but it is very messy and may not be the best component when it comes to adding traction in wet situations as it comes off when washed.

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 method of enhancing shoe traction is by using traction sprays or as some refer to as grip sprays. They came with the substances that act as abrasive on the shoe thus preventing it to easily slide on slippery surface. Traction sprays are ideal for wet and icy surfaces: they perform best during winter. However, they are not permanent solution because they fade away with time thus may require more in large quantities in case you intend to use them frequently.

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Traction spray can be applied on dress shoes, sports shoes or even the winter boots. However, there is a caveat: make sure you read the directions before you apply it on shoes because if not done right, non-slip sprays can be quite dangerous or even destructive to your shoes – the very opposite of what 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 commonly used in arts and crafts, and its primary goal is to create a 3D appearance on the painted surface. Available in different colours, it can work on rubber, metal, fabric and wood types of 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.

For instance, ice grips don’t fit all shoes, say high-heeled shoes, but they certainly have the capability of turning any fashion or even rugged boot, or any fancy shoe, into winter wear particularly where the participant is in winter activities.

8. Using sand and adhesive spray

Another way to increase friction between your shoes and the bottom of the outsoles is to stick sand on the soles of the shoes. Nevertheless, sand is somewhat inconvenient because it will at some point spill off the footwear and make a mess. It is also not so efficient in wet and snowy climate condition environments.

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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Everyone who wears shoes knows that if you fasten straps for ankle fixation, your ankle and legs are positioned in the right positions to make sure that the shoe does not come off your feet. Typically, the ankle straps possess adhesive pads that help fix to the heel counter. Three more popular types of ankle straps, which are commonly used when creating footwear, are 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 fix your shoes by replacing or modifying the outsoles. Still, their services can be expensive depending on the quality of your shoe and the difficulty of the fixing process, but it is a good investment to make your shoes 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 generally not as hard as shoe soles, so non-harmful techniques are the best advice to ensure they are slip-resistant. One of the tricks you can use hot glue gun to make even lines or even dot placement in correct proportions. You may use glue and stick the whole sole or around the heel and toe front part, then allow it to dry. Other technique involves using puff paint to make patterns on your slipper sole as one waits for it to dry.

2. How do you fix slippery heels?

To make the heels to be slip resistant you have to fix a grip pad on the forepart and fix hot glue on the heel part. Another option is to use hair spray or scuff the soles with a shoe resolve or with the help of a piece of sandpaper or of a nail file.

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

While using natural products like rubber these shoes are non-slip ones, but the rubber soles may become slippery after long time usage. To reduce the slippery nature of your rubber soles you can use the following suggestions; firstly you can use hair spray, traction spray, a hot glue gun or rubbing the soles gently using sandpaper.

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

Specifically, tennis shoes should be slip resistant to some significant degree; all top of the line tennis shoes are slip resistant. With tennis shoes, if the slip resistance has been worn off you can take the soles and scuff them, take them to a cobbler to get new soles put on or buy new shoes.