Harlow Bond makes contact cements and sole adhesives for cobblers, small footwear makers and repair shops. We mix in small batches and answer the phone when something doesn't stick.
See the rangeRequest a sampleMost repair and production work is covered by one of these. If your material isn't listed, send us a sample and we'll tell you honestly what to use, even if it isn't ours.
Solvent-based cement for resoling and heel work. Apply to both surfaces, let it tack, press together. Holds firm after a short cure and stays slightly flexible at the flex line.
Polyurethane adhesive for EVA, PU and TPR soles and for synthetic uppers. Needs a primer on smooth surfaces and is activated with gentle heat. Suited to sneakers and work boots.
A thick gel in a squeeze tube for loose toe caps, peeling edges and small gaps. Sets in about a minute so you can finish the repair while the customer waits.
Nearly every failed bond we see comes down to surface preparation. The steps are the same for most of our contact cements.
Work in a ventilated space, keep solvent-based products away from flames and heat, and keep them out of reach of children. Read the data sheet supplied with each product before use.
Harlow Bond began when a repair shop owner got tired of soles peeling off after the first wet week and started mixing his own cement in the back room. Other shops asked for tins of it, and the back room got bigger.
We still make adhesives in modest batches and test each one on real shoes before it ships. We would rather sell fewer products that work than a long catalogue that doesn't.
Can't find your answer? Use the contact form below.
Usually the surfaces were smooth, dusty or damp when the adhesive went on, or the cement was pressed together while still wet. Roughen, clean, let it get tacky, then press.
Some foams swell or soften with solvent-based cements. For EVA, PU and TPR soles, use HB-240 with its primer, and test on an offcut first.
Keep them closed, upright, cool and away from sunlight. Wipe the rim before closing so the lid doesn't stick.
Solvent-based products have shipping restrictions in some regions. Tell us where you are and we will say what we can send.
Yes. Use the form below and tell us the materials you work with.
Tell us what you are bonding and what has gone wrong. We reply on working days.