Nothing ruins a day out on the boat like slipping and sliding around on the deck due to slippery boat shoes.
You don’t want to be the one to wipe out in front of everyone, and you don’t want to feel like you’re constantly at risk of falling.
Thankfully, there are a few simple methods that can help you get a better grip on your boat shoes.
In this article, we’ll be covering the causes of slippery boat shoes and the five easy methods to help you fix them, from non-skid deck coating solutions to DIY solutions.
Keep reading to find out how you can get a better grip for a safe and worry-free time on the boat.
Short Answer
There are a few methods to fix slippery boat shoes.
One option is to apply a non-skid product, such as a spray-on or adhesive solution, to the sole of the shoe.
This will help provide some grip and traction on the surface.
Additionally, you can also apply a light coating of sand or grit to the sole of the shoe for added grip.
Finally, if the sole of the shoe is in good condition and simply too slick, you can apply a waterproofing product to the shoe to reduce the amount of slippage.
Causes of Slippery Boat Shoes
Slippery boat shoes can be a major issue for anyone who spends time on the deck of a boat.
The wet and slippery surface can make it difficult to move around without slipping or losing your balance.
There are several potential causes of slippery boat shoes.
The first is the material of the shoes themselves.
Leather and other materials are not designed to grip the wet surface of a boat, which means that they can become slick when wet.
Additionally, the soles of boat shoes may not have the necessary grip to keep them from slipping.
Finally, the accumulation of dirt and debris on the surface of the boat can make it difficult for shoes to get a good grip.
All of these factors can contribute to slippery boat shoes.
Non-Skid Deck Coating Solution
Non-skid deck coating is an easy and cost-effective solution to slippery boat shoes.
This type of coating can be found at most hardware stores and is usually applied as a thin layer over the existing deck.
The non-skid deck coating will provide an extra layer of traction and grip, making it ideal for boat decks.
It is important to note that this solution is only temporary, as the coating will wear off over time.
It is also important to make sure that the coating is properly applied to the deck, as any unevenness or air bubbles will reduce its effectiveness.
Additionally, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully in order to ensure a successful application.
With a properly applied non-skid deck coating, your boat shoes will have the extra grip and traction needed to stay secure on the deck.
Adding Abrasive Treads To Soles
Adding abrasive treads to the soles of your boat shoes is a great way to reduce slipperiness and ensure a secure footing on the deck of your boat.
This method is relatively simple and cost-effective, and can provide the added grip you need to stay safe in wet or slippery conditions.
When it comes to adding the treads, its important to choose a material that is both durable and slip-resistant.
Some of the most popular materials used for this purpose include rubber, neoprene, and even textured foam.
These materials are designed to provide the necessary traction and grip, and are often available in a variety of colors, sizes, and textures to match the style of your boat shoes.
Once youve chosen the material for the treads, youll need to apply it to the sole of the shoe.
This can be done using an adhesive or a hot glue gun.
When using an adhesive, make sure that it is waterproof and suitable for outdoor use, as it will be exposed to wet conditions.
After the adhesive has been applied, all you need to do is attach the treads to the sole of the shoe.
For the best results, its important to make sure that the treads are securely and evenly attached to the sole of the shoe.
This will help to ensure that the treads provide the necessary grip and traction.
Additionally, its a good idea to test the shoes grip on a dry surface before taking it out on the water.
This can help to determine if the treads are providing the desired level of grip and traction.
With a few simple steps, you can easily and cost-effectively reduce the slipperiness of your boat shoes by adding abrasive treads to the soles.
This method is easy to apply, and can provide the added grip and traction you need for a secure footing on the deck of your boat.
Applying a Waterproofing Product
When it comes to preventing slippery boat shoes, applying a waterproofing product is a great option.
A silicone-based waterproofing product is ideal for boat shoes as it not only helps to reduce slipperiness, but also helps to protect the material from water and salt damage.
Before applying the waterproofing product, it is important to ensure that the boat shoes are clean and dry.
This will help the product adhere better to the material and last longer.
Once the shoes are clean and dry, the waterproofing product can be applied with a brush or a cloth, depending on the product instructions.
It is important to apply the product evenly and in thin layers, as thicker layers can affect the breathability of the material.
Additionally, the product should be allowed to dry completely before being worn.
This will help ensure that it is effective in providing a non-slip surface.
By taking the time to apply a waterproofing product to your boat shoes, you can help reduce slipperiness and protect the material from water and salt damage.
This is a great way to ensure that your boat shoes stay secure and safe on your next voyage.
Cleaning and Re-application of Solutions
When it comes to dealing with slippery boat shoes, regular cleaning and maintenance are key.
First, it is important to make sure that your boat shoes are always clean, free of dirt and debris, and dry.
This will help to ensure that any solutions applied to the shoes surface will adhere properly.
Additionally, it is important to keep your boat shoes free of any excess oils or salt water, as these can act as lubricants and make the shoe even more slippery.
Once the shoes are clean, it is time to apply the desired solution.
For those looking to add a non-skid deck coating, this is a fairly straightforward process.
Simply ensure that the surface of the shoe is completely dry and then brush on the coating in an even layer.
Allow it to dry completely before using the shoes.
Similarly, applying abrasive treads to the sole of the shoe is also straightforward; simply use a strong adhesive to attach the treads to the shoe and then allow the adhesive to dry completely.
Finally, applying a silicone-based waterproofing product to the upper part of the shoe is a great way to reduce slipperiness.
Simply apply the product in an even layer and allow it to dry completely.
Regularly cleaning and re-applying the desired solutions are essential for keeping your boat shoes secure and safe on your next voyage.
This is a simple and cost-effective way to ensure that your shoes remain in great condition and free of slippery surfaces.
DIY Solutions
For those who are looking for a quick, easy, and cost-effective solution to their slippery boat shoes, there are a few DIY solutions to consider.
One of the most popular is to apply a non-skid deck coating, which is widely available at most hardware stores.
This product is designed to provide a durable, non-slip surface that can help prevent slips and falls on wet or slippery boat decks.
Additionally, applying a silicone-based waterproofing product to the upper of the shoe can also help reduce slipperiness.
This can be especially useful on shoes that are frequently exposed to water.
Another DIY solution is to add abrasive treads to the sole of the shoe.
This can be done by purchasing a sole protector or traction pad that has an adhesive backing.
These treads can help provide additional grip on slippery surfaces, making it easier to move around on the boat’s deck.
Additionally, some shoe brands offer their own specialty soles with built-in traction, such as Vibram FiveFingers shoes.
Finally, for those looking for a more permanent solution, it is possible to have the sole of your shoe professionally re-soled with a non-slip material.
This option may be more expensive than the other DIY solutions, but it can provide a more long-lasting solution.
Additionally, it is important to keep in mind that re-soling the shoe may void any manufacturer’s warranties, so it is best to consult with the manufacturer before making this decision.
Professional Solutions
When it comes to making boat shoes less slippery, there are several professional solutions that can be considered.
One of the most popular solutions is the application of a non-skid deck coating, which can be found at most hardware stores.
This coating provides a durable grip on the boat’s deck and is relatively easy to apply.
Additionally, it is water-resistant and can withstand the elements.
Another professional solution is to add abrasive treads to the sole of the shoe.
This added grip will provide improved traction and reduce the chances of slipping on wet surfaces.
The treads can be found in a variety of colors and styles to suit different preferences.
Finally, applying a silicone-based waterproofing product to the shoe’s upper can also help reduce slipperiness.
This product will create an extra barrier between the shoe and the deck, providing additional grip.
It is important to note that this type of product needs to be reapplied regularly in order to maintain its effectiveness.
By taking the time to invest in these professional solutions, you can ensure that your boat shoes remain secure and safe on your next voyage.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have the tools to solve slippery boat shoes, you can set sail with confidence.
Whether you choose a DIY solution or a professional one, there is a solution that is right for you.
So don’t let slippery boat shoes slow you down – try out any of the methods listed above and get ready for a safe and secure voyage.