Sewn or glued shoes? Find out about the advantages and disadvantages of both solutions

Two sides of the coin

Contrary to appearances, how much time a given pair of shoes will last for you depends not only on the quality of the material used in its production. Equally important is the method of construction used, i.e. the way the sole is attached to the upper of the shoe.

Basically, sewn and glued shoes are available in stores. The main difference between them is the price-quality ratio. We've covered the main advantages and disadvantages of both to help you make the best choice.

Is it worth buying glued shoes?

Glued shoes are one of the cheapest and most common methods of shoe construction. The sole mounted in this way works best with rubber boots. This solution is also often found in the case of classic sneakers or sneakers. Virtually all shoes are available in glued version.

Although this method of production is cheap, which significantly affects the final price of the product, it is worth considering all the disadvantages. Let's get started!

First, glued shoes are much less durable than sewn models. All thanks to the relatively poor connection of the sole and the upper of the shoes.

Secondly, shoes in which the sole is glued to the upper do not tolerate unfavorable weather conditions. Rain, snow and mud significantly affect their lifespan and may cause the sole to detach from the rest of the shoe in an unsightly way. Not only does it look bad, it also allows water to seep in.

Third, repairing such shoes may not be effective, and you will have to invest in another pair. In the long run, you may find yourself losing out on this. 

It is also worth paying attention to the ecological point of view. Some adhesives may release substances that are harmful to the environment. What's more, throwing away shoes and buying new pairs is also not ecological. If you care about the nature around you, better give up this solution in favor of sewn shoes.

Not so scary a devil…?

Glued shoes, however, have their supporters. One of them is the popular basketball player Michael Jordan, who chose glued shoes instead of sewn playing shoes. All thanks to the flexible design that does not require time to adjust to the foot. 

Another advantage of glued footwear is easy accessibility. Almost in every store you can easily find an aesthetic pair of glued shoes, both for everyday use and for more formal occasions.

Is it worth investing in sewn shoes?

Contrary to glued shoes, sewn shoes are much more durable, thanks to which they will serve you for many years. Although their price is noticeably higher, it is a real investment!

Moreover, sewn shoes look more solid than glued ones. Thanks to this, they perfectly complement sophisticated stylizations, creating a prestigious end result. Cheap glued shoes will never give you such a phenomenal finish.

The stitched shoes are also weather resistant. Whether you're running for a bus on a rainy day or taking a walk in a snowy city, you certainly have nothing to fear. The sewing will not start to fall apart and water will not seep inside the shoe.  

As soon as the seam is damaged, it is possible to successfully repair the shoes. All you need to do is take your favorite pair to a shoemaker who will repair it for a small fee.

Decorative seams on taped boots

Some shoe manufacturers choose to add decorative seams to glued shoes. If you only care about aesthetics, this solution may turn out to be a bull's eye. 

They are perfect for stylish women lacquered, insulated bags with red seams. The use of high-quality synthetic materials makes the shoes look impeccable. Their undoubted advantage is also a relatively low price. 

Glued shoes with decorative seams are usually cheaper than those with a sewn-on sole. Remember, however, that when they start to fall apart, all the spell will be broken and their charm will fade away.

If you're only going to wear these shoes once in a while, you probably have nothing to worry about. However, this can prove problematic in everyday use.

Which shoes to choose - sewn or glued?

Unfortunately, there is no clear answer to the question of which shoes to choose. It all depends on the personal preferences of the user. 

If high flexibility and low price are more important to you, opt for glued shoes. However, be aware that when they start to fall apart, you will be forced to buy new ones, which - after some time - may turn out to be less profitable than investing in sewn shoes.

These, in turn, are much more durable, thanks to which they will serve you for many years. Moreover, their repair is relatively inexpensive and practically hassle-free. Craftsmanship also makes the shoes look better, and the whole styling gains "that something". The choice is yours!