If the toe post has pulled out of the sole, push the plug back through the hole and slide a plastic bread clip or a small washer around the stem underneath, so it cannot pull through again. If a strap has snapped, re-glue it with a flexible, waterproof shoe adhesive and let it cure for 24 hours.
In this guide
What kind of break do you have?
| Problem | Quick fix | Lasting fix |
|---|---|---|
| Toe plug pulled through the sole | Bread clip or washer under the plug | Washer plus shoe adhesive |
| Side plug pulled out | Same as above | Washer plus shoe adhesive |
| Strap snapped | Strong tape wrapped around the break | Flexible adhesive, or replace the strap |
| Hole in the sole stretched or torn | Larger washer or button under the plug | Fill around the plug with adhesive |
| Layers of the sole peeling apart | None | Contact cement or shoe adhesive, clamped |
How to fix a pulled-out toe plug
This is the most common failure. The round plug at the end of the toe post has slipped up through the hole in the sole.
- Push the plug back down through the hole from the top until it sits in its recess underneath.
- Turn the flip flop over. Slide a plastic bread clip around the stem between the plug and the sole. The clip is wider than the hole, so the plug cannot pull back through.
- Press the clip flat into the recess so you do not feel it when you walk.
No bread clip? A small metal washer cut open on one side, or a flat button, does the same job.
Making it permanent
- Clean and dry the plug and the recess.
- Fit the washer or clip as above.
- Fill the recess around the plug with flexible, waterproof shoe adhesive and smooth it level.
- Leave it to cure for at least 24 hours before wearing.
How to fix a snapped strap
- Clean both broken ends with rubbing alcohol and let them dry.
- Roughen the ends lightly with sandpaper.
- Apply flexible shoe adhesive to both ends and press them together. Overlap the ends slightly if the strap is long enough.
- Hold the join with a clip or tape while it cures for 24 hours.
- For extra strength on fabric or leather straps, add a few stitches with strong thread across the join before gluing.
Standard super glue sets rigid and tends to crack on a strap that flexes, so use an adhesive made for footwear. The same applies to soles; see how to fix shoe sole separation.
Related: How to Clean UGG Slippers and Other Sheepskin Slippers
How to fix a stretched hole
If the hole in the sole has widened, a small clip may pull through too. Use a larger washer or a flat button under the plug, then pack the recess with adhesive so the load spreads over a wider area.
An emergency fix when you are out
- Push the plug back through and wedge a coin, a hair clip or a folded piece of plastic across the stem underneath.
- Wrap tape under the sole and over the plug to hold it until you get home.
Repair or replace?
- Repair a single pulled plug or snapped strap on flip flops that are otherwise in good condition.
- Replace them when the foam has compressed flat, the sole is worn smooth and slippery, or the footbed has cracked. Thin, worn flip flops give little cushioning or grip.
How to make flip flops last longer
- Keep them out of hot cars and direct sun, which shrink and harden foam and weaken glue.
- Rinse off salt water and sand after the beach.
- Avoid pulling them off by stepping on the heel of one with the other foot; that is how plugs get yanked out.
- Choose the right size. A foot that overhangs the edge puts extra strain on the toe post.
Frequently asked questions
What glue works on flip flops?
A flexible, waterproof shoe adhesive. Flip flop foam and rubber bend constantly, so rigid glues crack.
Does the bread clip trick really hold?
Yes, surprisingly well. It can last for months, and adding adhesive around it makes the repair permanent.
Can leather flip flops be repaired?
Yes. Leather straps can be stitched and glued, and a cobbler can re-anchor a toe post properly on a good pair.
