How to Fix Holes in Neoprene Boots

Kayaking or surfing in cold ocean waters need not be uncomfortable. Neoprene, the material used to make wetsuits, is a synthetic rubber with insulating properties that has been in use since the 1930s. Neoprene boots will keep you nice and warm until you step on a sharp shell on the beach and poke a hole in them. Luckily, holes are a breeze to repair. So don't throw your boots away, fix them up before your next trip to the ocean.

Things You'll Need

  • Urethane-based adhesive
  • Neoprene patch
  • Wax paper
  • Heavy object
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Instructions

  1. Repairing Small Holes

    • 1

      Pull apart the hole to expose the edges. Do this slowly and gently so as to not tear the fabric further.

    • 2

      Squeeze some urethane-based adhesive into the hole if it is pinhole-sized. If the hole is larger, but less than about 1/8-inch in diameter, stick masking tape behind the hole on the inside of the boot, then squeeze adhesive around the edges of the hole and 1/4-inch around it.

    • 3

      Let the adhesive dry until it is tacky. Squeeze the edges together and hold for five minutes.

    • 4

      Allow the adhesive to cure overnight. Remove the tape, if necessary.

    Repairing Large Holes

    • 5

      Cut a patch from an old pair of neoprene boots or wetsuit. Make the patch about 1/2-inch larger than the hole.

    • 6

      Apply adhesive around the perimeter of the hole and on one side of the patch.

    • 7

      Let the adhesive dry until it becomes tacky. Place the patch, glued-side down, on top of the hole.

    • 8

      Place wax paper on top of the hole to prevent it from sticking. Lay books or another heavy object on top of the patch to weigh it down.

    • 9

      Let the adhesive cure overnight.