Are your bowling shoe soles looking a little worse for wear? You might be wondering if it's possible to have them resoled.
The answer to this question is pretty loaded. In this article, we will answer the question, can you resole bowling shoes and tell you what it would entail?
Let's get right into it!
Contents
- 1 Can You Resole Bowling Shoes?
- 2 The Bowling Shoe Resoling Process
- 3 When Should You Resole Your Bowling Shoes?
- 4 Signs You Need Your Bowling Shoes Resoled or Replaced
- 5 How Much Does It Cost to Resole a Shoe?
- 6 Is Bowling Shoe Resoling Worth the Money?
- 7 How Much Are New Bowling Shoes?
- 8 Pros and Cons of Resoling Bowling Shoes
- 9 Pros and Cons of Buying New Bowling Shoes
Can You Resole Bowling Shoes?
Fortunately, bowling shoes can usually be resoled, potentially saving you a significant amount of money over time.
Though you can usually maintain your bowling shoes and change out your sliding sole at home, it is generally recommended that you take your bowling shoes to a professional to have them completely resoled.
Only professionals, typically at your local bowling alley shop, will have the proper tools and expertise to do the job right.
Key Takeaways
- Bowling Shoe Resoling: Bowling shoes can often be resoled, which can save money over buying new ones. Always consider professional resoling to ensure quality work with the right tools and expertise.
- Resoling Process Details: The process involves removing the old sole, sanding the shoe's undersole, attaching a new sole with strong adhesive, and trimming it to fit. It's complex and requires precision, highlighting the importance of professional service.
- When to Resole Shoes: Resole your bowling shoes if you bowl frequently (more than once a week) or if the soles show significant wear, such as holes, cracks, or detachment. This maintains traction, support, and comfort.
- Costs of Resoling vs. New Shoes: Resoling costs vary ($20-$100) based on the shoe type and repair complexity. Compare this with the cost of new bowling shoes ($25-$250) to decide the best value based on your shoe's condition and budget.
- Considerations for Resoling: Check the manufacturer’s warranty before resoling, as it might affect coverage. Assess how much use you'll get post-resoling versus buying new, factoring in your current budget and bowling frequency.
The Bowling Shoe Resoling Process
The process of resoling bowling shoes is not easy by any means. It requires specialized knowledge and equipment. To begin, the old sole is removed from the shoe, which requires meticulous precision, a prying tool, and a hobby knife.
Then, the shoe's undersole is sanded to remove any residue, and a new sole is attached to the shoe using a strong adhesive or glue. The new sole is trimmed to the desired size and shape to complete the process.
These steps are simplified - a lot more goes into the process. This is precisely why attempting to resole your own bowling shoes is a bad idea.
In the best-case scenario, your new soles won't be perfect, and in the worst-case scenario, you could end up with a damaged shoe or physical injury. With that in mind, it's always best to leave resoling bowling shoes to the professionals.
| Considerations | Resoling Bowling Shoes | Buying New Bowling Shoes |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $20 to $100, depending on damage and shoe type | $25 to $250, based on brand and style |
| Frequency | Recommended every 1-2 years for frequent bowlers | Depends on wear and preference |
| Signs to Consider | Worn down soles, holes/cracks, detachment | Overall wear, outdated style, discomfort |
| Process & Time | Complex process requiring professional expertise | Immediate upon purchase |
| Performance Impact | Maintains shoe integrity and performance | Ensures peak performance with new technology |
| Budget Consideration | More cost-effective in the long run for active bowlers | Higher upfront cost but may be worthwhile for severe wear or technological upgrades |
When Should You Resole Your Bowling Shoes?
The answer to this question depends on several factors, including how often you bowl, the type of bowling shoes you have, and the condition of the soles, specifically the sliding shoe.
But generally speaking, if you bowl once a week or less, your shoes will last for several years before they need to be resoled. If you bowl more frequently, you may need to have your shoes repaired every one to two years.
Signs You Need Your Bowling Shoes Resoled or Replaced
For the best possible bowling experience, your bowling shoes must provide good traction and support. They also need to be comfortable. But they can't do their job if their soles start to wear down, and when that happens, it's time to get them resoled or replaced.
Here are three signs that indicate it's time to give your shoes some attention:
- Your shoes are leaning. This is a sign that your soles have worn down and are no longer supporting your feet properly.
- You can see holes or cracks in the soles. Not only does this affect the shoe's appearance, but it can also cause it to lose shape.
- The soles are coming detached from the rest of the shoe. This is a serious issue that can't be ignored, as it can cause you to trip and fall.
If you notice any of these problems with your shoes, don't wait to get them fixed. Resoling is an inexpensive process, so there's no reason to put it off.
How Much Does It Cost to Resole a Shoe?
The cost of resoling a shoe depends on the type of shoe, the materials used, and the cobbler's labor rates.
A basic resoling job typically starts at around $20, while a more complex repair can cost upwards of $100. The most critical factor in determining the cost of resoling is the material used.
Leather soles can be replaced relatively easily, and the price is usually less than $50. However, rubber soles are much more challenging to work with, and the cost of resoling can quickly escalate.
You won't know how much your resoling job will cost until you take your shoes to a cobbler (shoe repair expert) and they assess the damage.
Is Bowling Shoe Resoling Worth the Money?
Wondering whether you should even bother with bowling shoe resoling? We'll help you decide in this section.
- Some manufacturers void their warranty if you have the shoes resoled. Check with your bowling shoe manufacturer to see if that rule applies and determine if that matters to you.
- Think about how much use you'll get out of the shoes after they're resoled. Resoling may be the best bet if you only bowl occasionally. If you're a bonafide bowling nut and you play often, you may decide that purchasing a new pair altogether is the better choice.
- Consider the cost of a new pair of shoes versus the cost of resoling. If your shoes are still in good condition otherwise, resoling may be the more economical option. You'll need to research how much new bowling shoes cost and take your current bowling shoes in to get a quote.
- Consider your current budget. Ultimately, whether or not to have your bowling shoes resoled is a personal decision based on your budget and current needs.
How Much Are New Bowling Shoes?
New bowling shoes typically cost between $25 and $250. However, prices can vary depending on the shoe's brand, style, and size.
For instance, a basic pair of men's shoes may cost around $50.
While a more expensive pair of men's bowling shoes could cost up to $250.
Basic women's shoes tend to be slightly cheaper than men's, with prices ranging from $40 to $70.
Expensive ones can climb to prices higher than $150.
Bowling shoes are available at most sporting goods stores and online retailers like Amazon.com.
Pros and Cons of Resoling Bowling Shoes
Though it may be tempting to simply purchase a new pair of bowling shoes every time your old ones begin to show wear, there are several reasons why you might want to consider getting them resoled instead.
For one, it can be much more cost-effective in the long run. In addition, a good cobbler can replace the soles without damaging the rest of the shoe, meaning you won't have to worry about sacrificing comfort or style.
On the downside, getting your shoes back from the cobbler can take a bit longer than buying a new pair. And if your shoes are very old or well-worn, they may not be able to be resoled at all.
Ultimately, deciding whether to get your shoes resoled is up to you; just be sure to weigh all the pros and cons before making a decision.
Pros and Cons of Buying New Bowling Shoes
One of the main benefits of buying new bowling shoes is the feeling of novelty you get when you wear them for the first time. Also, if your shoe’s soles aren’t the only issue, getting new pair will fix all of your shoe-related problems at once.
There are a few potential downsides to buying bowling shoes instead of resoling. One is that new shoes can be expensive, especially if you opt for a high-end pair.
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My Final Words
Addressing the wear and tear of your bowling shoes, especially the foot and heels, is essential for peak performance. Consider resoling if you find yourself stuck on the lane with reduced glide or encounter trouble due to a rough surface on your soles. A fine point to remember is that a broken or deteriorated sole can severely hinder your game.
Don't let this problem linger; repairing your shoes is often more cost-effective than buying a new one. For those DIY enthusiasts, regular cleaning and a gentle brush can maintain your shoes. Still, for more severe issues, professional resoling is the suggested route. Always expect to consult with a specialist—often called a cobbler—to ensure your shoes return to their optimal state, ready to hit the lanes with confidence.
Kira Byrd, a Certified Fraud Examiner, holds a B.S. in Accounting from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. With a passion for bowling from her childhood, Kira has poured her expertise and personal experiences into creating and nurturing Bowling For Beginners. Kira's mission is to meet new bowlers where they are and guide them toward consistently achieving higher scores. With a focus on skill development and strategic techniques, she empowers readers to take control of their game and unlock their true potential.
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