Repair or replace? When is it worth repairing and when is it better to buy new shoes?

Work boots are more than just a pair of shoes. They’re about protection, comfort and reliability every day. And when your favourite and trusted shoes start to wear out, the question becomes: is it worth repairing, or is it time to choose a new pair? This is especially true for those who work every day on construction sites, in logistics, in production, where shoes are literally tested for durability.

This resource will help you understand when repairs are warranted and when they are just a temporary delay before purchase. Below you’ll find specific signs of wear and tear, expert advice and tips for choosing certified shoes that will last longer.

What damage can be repaired?

Not all wear and tear means it’s time to throw the shoes away. Here are situations where repair is warranted:

• The lining or insole is torn – this can be replaced without loss of functionality.
• A detached sole – if the base is intact, it can be safely glued or sewn on.
• Worn leather or fabric upper – repair is possible with special creams, waterproofs or patches.
• Problems with lacing or fittings – hooks and eyes can be replaced in the workshop.

Important: the repair makes sense if the shoe still meets the safety requirements. That is, if the sole is intact, the sole structure is intact and the cushioning is intact.

When does a repair not help?

Sometimes trying to ‘resuscitate’ shoes turns out to be a pointless waste of money. Here are the signs that it’s time to replace your shoes:

• Cracks in the sole, especially in the heel or toe area.
• Damage to the sole protection – even microcracks render the sole useless.
• Severe tread abrasion, making slippery conditions dangerous.
• Loss of shape and fit – if the shoe ‘hangs’ on the foot or compresses.

Remember: work footwear protects life and health. If it does not fulfil this task, there is no point in repairing it.

Why is certification important when replacing?

When buying new shoes, it is important to focus not only on comfort and appearance. The main criterion is certification in accordance with EN ISO 20345. This guarantees:

• Puncture and impact resistance.
• Heel cushioning.
• Grip on wet and oily surfaces (SRC).
• Steel or composite footbed.

At TALAN Protective Footwear you will find models that meet all these requirements. By choosing certified products, you are not just renewing your footwear – you are investing in safety.

How do I extend the life of my shoes?

Even the best shoes don’t last forever, but proper care can significantly extend their life:

• Remove dust and dirt from work shoes daily.
• Use waterproof waterproofers – especially in rainy and muddy seasons.
• Change insoles at the first signs of wear.
• Do not dry your shoes on a radiator as this damages the glue and materials.
• Air out the shoes, especially if they are worn for 8-10 hours a day.

High-quality work footwear, like good workwear, requires care. It pays off because it ensures a longer service life without any loss of protective properties.

Which shoes to choose if your old ones are no longer fit for purpose?

If you’ve decided that repairs no longer make sense, it’s time to choose a reliable replacement. Pay attention to:

• Upper materials – eco leather, nubuck, moisture-wicking microfibre.
• Cushioning – reduces stress on joints.
• Non-slip sole – labelled SRC.
• Lightweight – especially important for those who are on their feet all day.
• EN ISO certification guarantees compliance with international standards.

Choose from trusted manufacturers. On the TALAN work shoes page, you will find models adapted to different working conditions: from warehouses to construction sites.

The most common mistakes when repairing work shoes

Many people try to save money and delay replacement by making common mistakes, namely:

• Using household glue for the sole – it cannot withstand the stress and moisture.
• Neglecting to replace an insole that may already be damaged.
• Placing a regular insole instead of a cushioning insole, which reduces protection and comfort.
• They end up in inappropriate workshops that do not use industrial technology.

The repair should be competent and fulfil the main task – to restore the shoes’ protective properties. If this is not possible, it is better to replace the pair straight away.

Repair or replacement: which is more beneficial?

At first glance, repair appears to be a cost-saving measure. But let’s calculate in detail:

• Repairing the sole and stitching will cost 80-120 zloty.
• Replacing the insole, lining and fittings is another 50-70 zloty.
• And all this with no guarantee that the shoes will last for a long time.

Now let’s compare them with the new certified TALAN model, which will last more than one season, providing comfort and protection. The price difference is not great, but the difference in quality and reliability is immediately noticeable.

Should I have my shoes repaired in Poland?

There are many workshops in Poland, but not all specialise in work shoes. Standards such as EN ISO 20345 impose specific technologies, and it is almost impossible to reproduce them at home.

If your job requires increased foot protection – from construction to energy – it is better to trust factory quality and not risk your health. As a manufacturer with a century of history, TALAN offers products that have passed all the necessary tests, not just “look reliable”.

How can you tell when a shoe has worn out?

There are some clear signs that even good quality shoes are no longer performing:

• The sole has become slippery. There is no grip, which increases the risk of slipping.
• The shoe leaks moisture, even if there is no visible damage on the outside.
• The heel is pulled inwards and misalignment is felt when walking.
• The materials are cracked, especially on the flexes, which means that the protection is weakened.
• The sole ‘walks’ inside the toes and you don’t feel stiffness in the toe area.

If at least two items on the list are the same, it’s time to change shoes. Even if they look ‘fine’. Safety at work starts with making sure you wear the right shoes and are 100% protected.

Need a new pair? Check out the models from our safety footwear factory. TALAN is the result of 100 years of engineering experience, tested on construction sites in Europe. Protect your feet as they serve you every day!