Crocs clogs are incredibly popular for their comfort and convenience, but their soft material means they can break down over time. Fortunately, Crocs repairs are often quick and straightforward, saving you money versus buying new shoes. This guide covers common Crocs damages and how to fix them at home.
Assessing Croc Damage
The first step in any Crocs repair is evaluating the damage. Typical issues include:
- Broken or torn straps
- Cracked/worn soles
- Holes or tears in the upper shoe
Small holes and worn treads can often be repaired at home. But large holes through the sole or splits in the top plastic are likely irreparable.
Once you’ve identified the damage, determine what’s needed to fix it:
- Strap repairs: New rivets, glue, thread/needle
- Cracks/tears: EVA glue or sewing
- Worn soles: Resoling at a shoe repair shop
Now let’s look at how to fix some common Crocs damages.
See Also: Crocs are good for kids
Fixing Broken and Torn Crocs Straps
Straps are prone to breaking at the plastic rivets or tearing where attached to the shoe. Here’s how to fix them:
Replacing Broken Rivets
The plastic rivets connecting straps to Crocs often snap.
You’ll need:
- Replacement rivets
- Pliers
Steps:
- Remove broken rivet pieces with pliers
- Install new rivet per instructions
- Ensure rivet sits securely in strap hole
Replacement options:
- Plastic rivets
- Metal rivets like Chicago bolts
- Bicycle chainring bolts
Fixing Ripped Strap Holes
Sometimes the Croc rivet hole tears, causing the strap to detach. Fix by:
- Using a knife, slit the shoe plastic above/below old hole
- Insert new rivet through this slit
- Rivet now anchors strap securely
You can also glue reinforcement fabric around the slit with EVA glue.
Repairing Torn Straps
Though less common, straps themselves sometimes tear entirely. To fix:
- Trim any loose threads or debris
- Align strap ends
- Apply EVA glue and hold together until dry
Thicker straps may need sewing instead of glue. Use strong nylon thread and tight stitches.
Replacing Worn Straps
Badly damaged or stretched-out straps should be replaced for proper fit. Purchase replacement Crocs straps online or contact Crocs customer service.
Fixing Holes and Tears in Crocs
The proprietary Croslite material is quite durable but can develop rips and holes, especially around the ventilation ports. For small holes under 1″, EVA glue can create a permanent seal.
Larger holes likely require replacement shoes. Significant stretching may also indicate overuse.
Follow these steps when gluing Croc holes/tears:
- Clean tear area thoroughly
- Dry shoes completely
- Apply thin layer of EVA glue evenly to tear
- Clamp tear closed tightly
- Wait at least 24 hours before wearing
Since glue repair is still somewhat visible afterward, consider adding decorative Jibbitz charms over the tear.
How to Fix Separating Crocs Soles?
Much wear causes the Crocs sole to separate from the upper. Catch sole separation early and re-adhere the layers before they detach fully.
Materials needed:
- EVA glue
- C-clamps/heavy books
Steps:
- Separate shoe to expose torn edge
- Apply adhesive evenly long torn section
- Clamp layers tightly together until cured
For full sole separation, visit a shoe repair pro to re-soling service. This chemically fuses a new sheet of Croslite to the base, restoring traction.
Fixing Cracked or Worn Crocs Soles
Long-term Crocs use wears down the treads and causes small surface cracks. These issues reduce slip resistance but are easy DIY fixes.
Filling Sole Cracks
- Clean debris from cracks
- Fill fully with EVA glue
- Wipe excess before drying
Renewing Worn Treads
This durable rubberized coating adds grip and fills small cracks. Apply 2-3 light coats, avoiding ventilation holes. Reapply annually or whenever slippage occurs.
For large cracks through the sole or toe stubbing damage, professional resoles work best.
Tips for Preventing Crocs Damage
Crocs thrive on frequent wear but still need some TLC. Here are tips for extending their lifespan:
- Handwash gently in mild soap if dirty
- Check for debris crammed into holes
- Give leather Crocs occasional conditioner
- Let breath between usages
- Store with shoe trees inserted to prevent distortion
- Avoid bleach/harsh chemicals that degrade Croslite
- Limit contact with pet accidents
- Inspect routinely for wear spots before they worsen
Taking prevention measures keeps your Crocs like new longer!
Credit: www.reddit.com
Are Crocs Worth Repairing?
Given Crocs’ hefty price tag around $50 per pair, repairing rather than replacing worn ones often makes financial sense. Home fixes detailed here use inexpensive materials and basic tools.
Straps, light surface cracks, and limited wear constitute easy no-sew fixes taking under an hour. More extensive damage like large tears or sole separation may need professional assistance costing $40+.
Evaluate repair feasibility versus personal replacement budget. But for beloved “old faithful” Crocs, even intricate repairs can justify the comfort payoff.
Where to Buy Crocs Repair Supplies?
Local craft/shoe stores carry some handy fixes like heavy-duty fabric glue. But specialty adhesives for the proprietary Croslite material order online. We recommend:
Amazon: stocks hard-to-find EVA glue formulated for foam and plastics. Also replacement rivets, straps, and tread spray. Browse their Crocs repair section here.
Crocs.com: sells official straps, accessories like Jibbitz charms, and care products. Call their customer service about free strap replacements if under warranty.
ShoeGoo.com: Shoe Goo adhesive bonds almost anything while remaining flexible after drying. Great for cracks and holes.
Generic equivalents also work fine. Compare options’ flexibility, bond strength, drying time, and usage limitations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crocs Repairs
Can any glue fix Crocs?
No, the Croslite material requires only flexible bonding adhesives like EVA or polyurethane glue designed for foam and plastics. Super glue and epoxies don’t flex once cured, causing repairs to quickly fail. Always use a flexible Crocs-friendly adhesive.
How much does it cost to repair Crocs?
Basic DIY fixes cost only a few dollars for replacement rivets, thread, and specialty glue. More extensive sole work at a shoe repair runs $20-50. Vs the $50 for new Crocs, easy home repairs provide major savings!
Do Crocs offer free repairs?
Crocs guarantees products against manufacturing flaws for 90 days after purchase. If strap damage or cracking occurs very quickly without wear/user damage, they may provide free replacements during this window. Contact customer service.
Can Crocs resole worn treads?
Yes! Shoe repair pros chemically bond fresh Croslite material to badly worn soles using vulcanizing equipment. This replaces just the tread layer, not the whole base. Expect to pay around $40-50 for Crocs resoling service depending on the shop.
What happens if you don’t fix broken Crocs?
Unrepaired issues like detached soles, large holes, and broken straps render Crocs progressively unwearable and unsafe. Debris entering holes may also abrade your feet. Don’t ignore minor problems either – small cracks expand and loose straps snag off fully over time.
How long do Crocs last?
With proper rotational wear and care, a Crocs lifespan averages 2-4 years. But breakdown happens quicker through heavy use, outdoor wear, or lack of maintenance. Make repairs whenever problems appear for maximum usage.
We hope this comprehensive Crocs repair guide empowers you to salvage your broken clogs through easy home fixes! Let us know in the comments if you have further questions.
Crocs Repair Guide: Final Thoughts
With some basic tools, affordable supplies, and a DIY spirit, damaged Crocs often fix rather than toss. Know your limits though; significant sole detachment or large gashes still likely necessitate professional help or replacement. But don’t panic with small, common issues like worn treads or broken straps. Armed with this repair guide, you can rescue your Crocs from retirement to enjoy their unparallel comfort a while longer.
Leave a Reply