DIY cycling shoes are the perfect solution for those who want to pedal with style, comfort, and savings, and still get their hands dirty.
Did you know that you can transform a simple pair of sneakers into functional and durable cycling shoes using bioresin?
This homemade technique allows you to customize your shoes, reinforce their structure, and extend their durability, even with simple materials. And best of all: it’s low-cost, creative, and sustainable.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to mix, apply, and cure bioresins correctly to seal cracks, reinforce soles, and ensure performance. Get ready to discover practical tips, ideal curing times according to temperature, and the right level of sanding. Your ride will never be the same!
What is Bio-Resin and Why Use It?
Bio-resin is a sustainable alternative to traditional epoxy resins. It is made from plant-based compounds and can be used to reinforce, seal, and repair structures—including the base or body of your DIY cycling shoes.
Main benefits:
- Seals cracks with high durability
- Improves water and impact resistance
- Contributes to a more rigid base, ideal for cycling
- Has a lower environmental impact than conventional resins
It is important to note that proper application of bio-resin can increase the lifespan of shoe materials by up to 40%.
How to Prepare the Bio-Resin Mixture
Before applying, you need to mix it correctly to ensure perfect curing and desired performance. Follow these steps:
Materials needed:
- Plant-based bio-resin (part A)
- Hardener (part B)
- Clean container
- Spatula or mixing stick
- Gloves and protective mask
Step by step:
- Ideal ratio: generally, 2 parts resin to 1 part hardener. But check the manufacturer’s label.
- Mix carefully: stir for at least 2 to 3 minutes with constant movements, avoiding bubbles.
- Use quickly: once mixed, the resin has a useful application time (shelf life in the jar) of between 15 and 30 minutes, depending on the room temperature.
To better understand, let’s now look at how to apply this mixture correctly.
Applying Bio-Resin to DIY Cycling Shoes
You can apply bio-resin to seal cracks, reinforce the sole, or waterproof vulnerable areas of your shoes.
Where to apply:
- On the sole, to harden and seal pedal joints
- Around screws, to prevent leaks and cracks
- In seams or cracks in the fabric, to protect against moisture
How to apply:
- Use a small brush or spatula to spread the resin.
- Apply a thin, even layer.
- Avoid overdoing it—excess can create a hard, uncomfortable buildup.
- Wait for the curing time (see below).
Temperature Curing – Ideal Time
Curing depends directly on the temperature of the environment where the shoe will be left after applying the resin:
20°C (cold)
➤ Complete curing time: 24 hours
25°C (average temperature)
➤ Complete curing time: 18 hours
30°C (warm)
➤ Complete curing time: 12 hours
Above 35°C (very hot)
➤ Complete curing time: 8 hours
Important:
Do not use the shoe before it is completely cured, even if the surface is dry. The resin needs to harden completely inside.
Sandpaper Finishing – Recommended Grits
After curing, sanding the area helps level it and give it a more professional finish. Follow these steps:
Rough Sanding
➤ 60-80 grit sandpaper
Intermediate Finishing
➤ 100-120 grit sandpaper
Smooth Finishing
➤ 180-220 grit sandpaper
Practical Sanding Tips
For small areas:
➤ Use hand sandpaper.
For larger areas:
➤ A rotary sander can speed up the process.
Safety First:
➤ Always wear a mask when sanding cured resin to avoid inhaling particles.
Repairing Cracks with Bio-Resin
If your DIY cycling shoe already has cracks or splits, you can use bio-resin to repair them. Here’s how:
- Sand the area with 100-grit sandpaper to open the crack.
- Apply the resin with a spatula, pressing it into the crack.
- Spread a thin layer around the area.
- Cure for at least 18 hours at 25°C.
- Sand again with 180-grit sandpaper to finish.
Let’s go a little deeper: this process not only repairs but also reinforces the area, preventing further damage in the future.
How Often Can I Reapply Bio-Resin?
A common question for beginners is: can I reapply bio-resin if the first coat didn’t turn out well?
The answer is: yes!
Reapplication is possible and can even be advantageous in some cases.
When to reapply:
- If the layer is too thin or uneven
- If air bubbles appear during curing
- If the area is not completely sealed
- If structural reinforcement is needed after use
Before reapplying, sand the area with 120-grit sandpaper to ensure adhesion to the new layer. Then, apply a new thin layer and allow the curing time.
Can I Speed Up Curing with Heat?
Yes, but be very careful! Heat speeds up curing, but it requires careful control, as it can warp the shoe’s synthetic materials.
What works:
- Oven or electric oven at 40°C for up to 2 hours
- Direct sunlight on hot days
- Hair dryer on low power and 20cm away
What to avoid:
- Microwave (never!)
- Dryer too close
- Heat sources above 50°C
It’s important to emphasize that, although heat accelerates curing, it’s best to follow the standard curing time recommended by the bio-resin manufacturer.
How to Test Resin Adhesion Before Use
Before riding, it’s a good idea to test whether the bio-resin is 100% adhered to the shoe base.
Simple traction test:
- Using your finger, press on the sealed areas.
- Try gently pulling a corner of the layer with your fingernail.
- If it feels rigid and secure, it’s ready to use.
- If there’s flexing or loosening, file it down and reapply a new layer.
This type of test is quick and avoids surprises while riding.
How to Make Homemade Bio-Resin (Extra!)
Want to take your DIY even further? Learn how to make a simple homemade vegetable resin, ideal for small repairs and fabric finishing.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 200 ml white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon vegetable glycerin
- 200 ml water
- 1 tablespoon linseed oil (optional)
How to make:
- Mix all ingredients in a saucepan.
- Place over low heat and stir until thickened.
- Let cool and use with a fine brush.
- Air cure for 24 hours.
This resin isn’t as strong as industrial resins, but it works well for sealing fabrics, reinforcing seams, or decorating non-structural areas.
Extra Tips for Incredible Results
- Use masking tape to delimit the application area
- Keep the shoe on a level surface while curing
- Apply in a dust-free environment to avoid particles on the surface
- Test on a piece of fabric or sole before applying directly
- You can dye the resin with pigments to give it a colorful finish
YouTube Channels to Learn How to Make Your Own DIY Cycling Shoes
1. GCN Tech (Global Cycling Network Tech)
One of the most respected channels in the cycling world. It has videos on maintenance, accessories, and even comparisons between commercial and custom shoes.
Video suggestion: “Can You Make Your Own Cycling Shoes?”
youtube.com/GCNTech
Great for those who want to understand more about pedal mechanics, cleat types, and how to adapt standard shoes.
Conclusion
If you want a self-made cycling shoe that’s functional, durable, and unique in appearance, learning how to use bio-resin correctly is one of the biggest advantages. From proper mixing, through careful application, to curing and final sanding, every step contributes to a professional result, even if done at home.
Furthermore, with the correct curing times and the use of the appropriate sandpaper, you ensure durability, comfort, and style in your DIY cycling shoes.
Now it’s your turn to apply this knowledge and create or restore your own pair.
Transform your cycling with sustainability, savings, and autonomy.
Start today. Try it. And never ride the same way again!
