Shoe Repairer

Your Fit

Income

$36K

Preparation

Some

Growth

-11.0%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Shoe Repairer?

A Shoe Repairer specializes in fixing and refurbishing various types of footwear, employing a mix of handcrafting skills and machine use. This role involves assessing damage, performing repairs, and sometimes customizing or modifying shoes for specific needs.

Sample job titles:

Boot Maker, Cobbler, Shoe Maker, Shoe Repairer

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Shoe Repairer.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Shoe Repairer earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) in 2024 was...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$25K per year	$29K per year	$36K per year	$41K per year	$48K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $14K below the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does a Shoe Repairer do?

Work environment

Shoe Repairers often work in small repair shops or boutiques, sometimes within larger retail establishments. The environment is typically workshop-based, requiring the use of tools and machinery specific to shoe repair and crafting.

Quick task list

Assesses shoe damage and determines the best repair methods.
Sews, glues, and patches shoes using various materials.
Operates shoe repair machinery, such as sewing and buffing machines.
Replaces soles, heels, and other components of shoes.
Provides customer service, including offering repair options and price estimates.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Orthopedic Shoe Modification: Specializing in adapting shoes for orthopedic purposes.
High-End and Luxury Shoe Care: Focusing on premium and designer footwear.
Custom Fabrication: Creating custom parts or modifications for unique shoe designs.

Description

Shoe Repairers play a crucial role in the footwear industry, offering a sustainable option to extend the life of shoes. They possess a unique blend of skills, combining traditional craftsmanship with the operation of specialized machinery. Their work involves not just fixing wear and tear but also restoring and sometimes enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the shoes.

Attention to detail and a thorough understanding of different materials and construction methods are essential in this profession. Shoe Repairers often work on a variety of shoes, from everyday wear to high-end luxury brands, each requiring different techniques and care.

This occupation appeals to those who appreciate craftsmanship and enjoy working with their hands. The satisfaction of restoring a well-loved pair of shoes to their former glory or customizing them to fit a client's needs can be immense, making this a fulfilling career choice for many.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

The joy of restoring and transforming well-used shoes.
Utilizing and honing craftsmanship skills.
The autonomy of working in a small workshop setting.

You might make a good Shoe Repairer if you are...

Patient and detail-oriented.
Skilled with your hands and comfortable using tools.
Interested in fashion and footwear.
Good at problem-solving and creative thinking.
Enjoy working independently.

Pros:

Creative and satisfying work.
Opportunity for self-employment or small business ownership.
Low barrier to entry in terms of education.

Cons:

Potentially limited growth opportunities.
Physical work that can be demanding.
Market demand may fluctuate with trends and economic conditions.

How to become a Shoe Repairer

Typical education

Typically, a high school diploma is sufficient, with most skills learned through on-the-job training. Some may opt for vocational courses in shoe repair or related fields.

High school preparation

Courses:

Basic business courses for entrepreneurial skills.
Art or design classes to develop an eye for aesthetics.
Shop classes to gain experience with tools and machinery.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Joining a craft or maker club.
Part-time work or apprenticeship in a repair shop.

Preparation after high school

Vocational training in shoe repair and maintenance.
Workshops and seminars on specific repair techniques or machinery.
Internships or apprenticeships with experienced shoe repairers.

More resources

Shoe Service Institute of America - Provides resources and training information.
The Footwearists - Offers workshops and innovation in footwear.
American Academy of Orthotists & Prosthetists - For those interested in orthopedic shoe modification.

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