Why are my shoes squeaking?
Reading time: 4 minutes | Last updated: August 22, 2025
Squeaky shoes – annoying, right? Especially when you’re tiptoeing into a quiet room like a library or meeting space, and your shoes announce your arrival louder than you’d like. Not exactly ideal. But don’t worry – there are ways to stop the squeaking. We’ve rounded up 5 simple tips to help you silence those noisy soles. Let’s get into it!
Want to jump straight to the fix? Click “Tips to fix squeaky shoes” in the table of contents below.
What causes squeaky shoes?
There’s no single reason – squeaks can come from different materials, construction, or even weather. Here are a few common culprits:
1 | Friction between materials
One of the main reasons for squeaky shoes? friction. This could be between the insole and the sole, or even between layers within the sole itself if it’s made of mixed materials.
2 | Moisture
Wet shoes = squeaky shoes. Water causes friction and movement between different parts of the shoe. Caught in a downpour or splashed through a puddle? Moisture might be your issue.
3 | Smooth outsoles
They may look sleek, but slippery outsoles can squeak like crazy on tile or polished floors. Think “sneakers on a gym floor” kind of sound.
4 | Low-quality shoes
Let’s be real – cheap shoes are more likely to squeak. Poor construction, thin glue, low-grade materials… it all adds up.
5 | Air pockets
Air trapped in foam or rubber soles can lead to squeaking with every step. It’s like walking on whoopee cushions (only less funny).
6 | Dry leather
Leather needs care – if it gets too dry, it can stiffen and squeak from internal friction. Conditioning cream to the rescue!
Tips to fix squeaky shoes
Let’s get to the good stuff – here’s how to stop that squeak for good:
Just a quick disclaimer: Try at your own risk (but we think you’ll do great).
1 | Talcum or baby powder
Magic dust for shoes! sprinkle some under the insole to reduce friction. Bonus: almost all Wolky shoes have removable footbeds – makes this step a breeze.
2 | Petroleum jelly or lubricant
Got Vaseline? Apply a thin layer to the parts that squeak. A little goes a long way – too much and you’ll be slipping instead of squeaking!
3 | Dry, dry, dry
If your shoes are wet, don’t just toss them in a corner. Air dry them properly or use a shoe dryer. Avoid radiators, blow dryers, or the laundry machine – they can warp materials. If your shoes have removable insoles, take them out to speed up drying.
4 | Sand the soles
If smooth soles are the problem, lightly rough them up with sandpaper. Try this one carefully and test on a hidden spot first. Pro tip: at your own risk.
5 | Use leather care products
If you’ve got leather shoes (and with Wolky, chances are good), regular conditioning helps prevent drying – and squeaking. Prevention over cure!
Preventing squeaky shoes
Want to avoid squeaky shoes in the first place? Here’s what to watch for:
1 | Buy quality shoes
Choose shoes made with top-grade materials and solid craftmanship. Like, say, all Wolky shoes!
2 | Take care of your shoes
Clean, condition, and store your shoes properly. Good maintenance goes a long way.
3 | Keep them dry
Avoid wet conditions when you can. Yes, we know – easier said than done. But it helps!
4 | Make sure they fit
A proper fit isn’t just about comfort – it also reduces friction and movement, aka squeak potential. Curious about fit? Check out our sizing guide.
Should you see a cobbler?
You obviously can, if you want. A cobbler can reseal loose soles, apply professional lubricants, or even replace worn-out parts. If you suspect the sole’s the problem, let the cobbler handle it.
Wolky = quality
Our shoes are made from the highest quality materials. No wonder they’re so comfortable!
Do you need online advice about shoe choice?
Contact us through the options below, and we’ll be happy to assist you.
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