Fixing an ankle strap, any advice?

Laurieheels · 21st January 2002, 06:37

Before I wiggle on down to a shoe repair, I thought I would ask for some tips. I have an older pair of shoes, and they have straps that go across the vamp and one buckles at the ankle, while the other is attached by elastic. The buckle strap on the right shoe is damaged, and the buckle does not hold as tight. As a result, the shoe can slip off of my foot. Is there any easy way to reinforce this strap, particularly around the holes, so that I can tighten the strap and not worry about it breaking? I like these shoes, but I do not wear them much for fear of injury. The shoes might be suede or imitation suede, I am not sure.

Laurie

Firefox · 23rd January 2002, 06:12

Try black duct tape or "gaffer" tape as we call it in the UK. It usually comes in silver and has that reinforced mesh weave in it. I don't think black would look too bad for a quick fix. One or two layers can be fixed on the back of the strap and wrapped slightly round the front at the top and bottom. If you want a better solution, then a thin strip of black leather of suitable thickness can be sewed behind the strap. Holes can be made in it with an awl to match those in the existing strap. This is a time consuming job to do nicely.

_________________
Believe in your right to wear what you want

<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: Firefox on 2002-01-24 05:36 ]</font>

Dr. Shoe · 24th January 2002, 22:42

I agree, you could try stitching it in for added strength.

hoverfly · 3rd February 2002, 19:14

Make sure you use a heavy duty threading needle.

pieman3141 · 16th March 2002, 01:49

elastic bands

Firefox · 16th March 2002, 13:25

I don't think elastic bands would look very nice, but I've seen black elastic hair bands used as a suggestion to replace straps or cure slipping pumps. I can't remember where I saw it now though.

Tom-NL · 16th March 2002, 14:18

Could it have been one of these pictures?

http://193.251.60.36/Jenny/stopslip.jpg (red band)

http://193.251.60.36/Jenny/tie.jpg (black band)

Text accompanying these illustrations to be found at

http://193.251.60.36/Jenny/wearing3.htm#slip

Firefox · 16th March 2002, 15:21

Thank you for remebering that Tom. You are always so helpful.

Carolyn · 23rd March 2002, 17:11

I tried the Duct tape idea on some slingbacks and it is very effective. I needed to renew it after a few wearings, but this thime I think I have done it better. Thanks guys!

~Caz