How to Fix Bent Heel on Shoe

Ah, the humble heel. A staple in many of our wardrobes, they can add a touch of glamour to any outfit. But even the sturdiest of heels can become damaged or worn over time. One common issue that arises is when a heel becomes bent or misshapen.

How to Fix Bent Heel on Shoe

This can be frustrating, as it can affect the fit and comfort of the shoe. But don’t despair – there are a few steps you can take to fix a bent heel and restore it to its former glory.

Fixing a Bent Heel on a Shoe

Assess the Damage

Before you start attempting to fix your bent heel, it’s important to assess the extent of the damage. Consider the material of the heel – is it made of a sturdy, high-quality material, or is it more flimsy? This will help you determine whether the heel can be salvaged or if it will need to be replaced. If the heel is made of a more delicate material, such as suede or satin, it may not be possible to fix it. In this case, it’s probably best to invest in a new pair of heels.

Gather Materials

Depending on the type of heel and the extent of the damage, you may need to gather a few materials to fix it. Some common materials that may be needed include:

Glue or adhesive

There are many different types of glue and adhesive that can be used for this purpose, including rubber cement, shoe glue, and super glue. It’s important to choose a glue or adhesive that is appropriate for the type of shoe and heel that you are working with, as some glues may not be strong enough or may not work well with certain materials. Read this if you’re looking for a good shoe glue: How To Fix Peeling Shoe Lining.

A hammer

In the context of shoe repair, a hammer can be used to gently tap a bent heel in an attempt to straighten it out. It’s important to use a soft-faced hammer or a shoe repair hammer, as these will be less likely to damage the heel.

A shoe repair kit

A shoe repair kit is a collection of tools and materials that are used for repairing and maintaining shoes. A typical shoe repair kit may include items such as glue, patches, a hammer, a shoe tree, and various other tools and materials. These kits can be purchased at a shoe repair shop or a department store that sells shoe care products.

If you don’t have all of these materials on hand, don’t worry – you can usually find them at a shoe repair shop or a department store that sells shoe care products.

straighten a bent heel

Straighten the Heel

If the damage to your heel is relatively minor, it may be possible to fix it simply by straightening it out. One way to do this is by gently tapping the bent portion of the heel with a hammer. Be careful not to hit the heel too hard, as this can cause further damage.

Repair the Heel

If the damage to the heel is more severe, it may be necessary to repair it using glue or adhesive. Follow the instructions on the adhesive to apply it to the heel. Be sure to hold the heel in place while the adhesive dries, using a shoe tree or other tool if necessary. This will help ensure that the heel is held firmly in place and that the repair is as strong as possible.

Finish and Polish

Once the heel has been repaired or straightened, you may want to finish and polish it to restore its original appearance. Use a shoe polish or other appropriate product to clean and protect the heel. This will help to extend the lifespan of the shoe and keep it looking its best.

Replacing a Bent Heel

It is possible to replace a heel on a shoe. Depending on the type of shoe and the damage to the heel, there are a few different options for replacing it.

Replacing a Bent Heel

One option is to take the shoe to a professional cobbler or shoe repair shop, where they can remove the old heel and attach a new one. This is typically the most reliable and long-lasting option, as the cobbler will have the necessary tools and experience to properly attach the new heel.

Another option is to try replacing the heel yourself. There are a few different ways to do this, depending on the type of shoe and the material of the heel. For example, some shoes have heels that are attached with screws or nails, which can be removed and replaced with a new heel. Other shoes may have a heel that is glued on, in which case you can try using a strong adhesive to attach a new heel. However, it’s important to note that replacing a heel yourself can be a bit more challenging, and the result may not be as durable as a professionally-repaired heel.

In general, it is possible to replace a heel on a shoe, but it is best to consult a professional cobbler or shoe repair shop for the best results.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can fix a heel that has been bent and restore it to its original condition. It may take a bit of time and effort, but the end result will be worth it. And remember – taking care of your heels is an important part of keeping them looking their best. So go ahead and give those bent heels a little TLC – you’ll be glad you did!

What’s next? Explore more helpful shoe and boot care tips.

Patricia Merken

Interior design blogger

Neat freak and shoe lover. American expat in Switzerland.
Blogger and mom. Blogs at Footweardrobe.