How do you get shoes to stop squeaking

Reading time: 5 min | Last updated: 9 December 2025

Let’s be honest—there’s nothing more awkward than squeaky shoes. Especially when you walk into a super quiet space like a library or a meeting room, and suddenly everyone knows you’ve arrived. If your shoes are drawing more attention than you are, it’s time to take action. But how do you fix squeaky shoes?

Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Keep reading for five practical tips to silence those noisy shoes once and for all.

Want to jump straight to the tips? Scroll down to “Tips to Fix Squeaky Shoes”.

This blog features:

What causes shoes to squeak?

Squeaky shoes can be caused by all sorts of things. The exact reason usually depends on the type of shoe and what it’s made of. Let’s take a look at the most common culprits:

1 | Friction between materials

One of the most common causes of squeaking is friction—usually between the insole and the outsole. If your shoe is made of different types of materials, those parts rubbing together can easily cause noise.

2 | Moisture

Yep, moisture is a major squeak-maker. If your shoes are damp from rain or humidity, the materials inside may rub and shift more than usual, creating that annoying sound.

3 | Slippery soles

Sure, slick soles look polished and dressy, but they can also be a squeaky nightmare—especially on smooth floors or tiles. Think of it as your shoes trying to perform a drum solo without your permission.

4 | Poor construction

Cheaper shoes often squeak because of low-quality materials or poor assembly. Inadequate glue or weak seams can create air pockets or gaps where parts rub together. Always invest in quality—it pays off in silence.

5 | Trapped air

Air bubbles in the sole (especially in rubber or foam soles) can squeak every time you step. It’s like your shoe is sighing with every move.

6 | Dry leather

Leather needs love! Without regular care, leather can dry out and stiffen—leading to friction and squeaks. A good leather cream keeps it supple and quiet. Want to keep your leather shoes in great shape? Check out our care guide by material type.

Tips to fix squeaky shoes

Thankfully, there are easy ways to fix the squeak. Here are five tried-and-true tricks:

1 | Baby powder or talcum powder

This stuff works wonders. Sprinkle a bit under the insole (especially easy with Wolky shoes, since most of our footbeds are removable!). The powder reduces friction and helps silence squeaky spots. Raid your bathroom cabinet—you probably already have some!

2 | Vaseline or lubricant

Vaseline isn’t just for dry skin—it can help your shoes too! Apply a thin layer to the areas where you hear the squeak. Just don’t go overboard, unless you want slippery shoes (and no one wants that…).

3 | Dry ‘em out

If you’ve been caught in a downpour—or couldn’t resist jumping in that puddle (we get it)—make sure your shoes dry out completely. Remove the insoles if possible, and let everything air dry. No heaters or hairdryers, please! That can damage the materials. Use a shoe dryer if you have one, or just let them breathe overnight.

4 | Lightly sand the soles

Smooth soles on smooth floors = squeak central. Gently scuff the bottom of the shoes with sandpaper to create grip and cut back on the noise. But hey—this one’s at your own risk 😉

5 | Leather care products

Dry leather often leads to squeaking. Keep your shoes conditioned with a good-quality leather cream or polish. It’s the easiest way to stop the squeak before it starts.

How to prevent squeaky shoes in the first place

Looking for a squeak-free future? Here’s what to keep in mind when buying your next pair:

1 | Choose quality materials

High-quality construction and materials are less likely to cause noise. (Just saying… all Wolky shoes are handmade from premium materials in Europe—because only the best is good enough for your feet.)

2 | Regular shoe care

Clean them, condition them, and store them right. A little care goes a long way in keeping your shoes silent and strong. Want to know how? Visit our shoe care by material page.

3 | Avoid damp storage

Try to keep your shoes dry and ventilated—especially in the oh-so-moist UK climate.

4 | The right fit

A proper fit means less rubbing, less friction—and yep, less squeaking. Make sure your shoes fit like a dream. Need help finding your perfect size? Check out our Wolky size guide.

Good shoes

These Wolky shoes are super comfortable!

Whynot – blue nubuck

£189.99

Lubbock HV – cream white leather

£209.95

Jump – red nubuck

£189.95

Adura – blue effect leather

£179.95

When in doubt, visit the cobbler

Sometimes a squeak is a job for a pro. A good cobbler can:

Apply professional lubricants
Reseal loose soles
Replace worn-out parts
Extend the life of your shoes

If your soles are flapping, squeaking, or just plain tired, your local shoe repair shop may be your best friend.

Final step? Step into quality

At Wolky, all our shoes are crafted with care, comfort, and quality in mind – because we believe women should be able to move through life with ease, style, and zero squeaks.

So whether you’re walking into a big meeting, browsing your local library, or just heading out for a stroll – make sure your shoes support you (quietly).