Rubber boots are a boon to farmers, gardeners, fishermen and anyone who has to work outdoors. The thick, rubber surfaces of the boots protect feet from muck and weather conditions. But when a boot becomes cracked or develops holes, wearing them can be almost as bad as going barefoot. Although replacing a pair of rubber boots is preferable, you can temporarily patch them. Patching rubber boots can be similar to patching a leaking air mattress, pond or pool.

Examine your boots thoroughly. If your boots are two-part boots with stitching, such as duck boots, it may be possible to have them repaired by a shoe repairman and then waterproofed. Locate all holes and tears.

Roughen the edges of any small holes with sandpaper.

Wash and dry the boots thoroughly.

Fill small holes with silicone glue.

Wait 48 hours for glue to cure and dry before using.

Cover large holes with a PVC patch by washing the area around the hole with water.

Allow the boots to dry.

Roughen the area around the holes with sandpaper.

Coat the surface of the boot around the hole, and the surface of the patch with silicone glue.

Allow glue to become tacky. Then press both glued surfaces together.

Smooth out any bubbles and wrinkles. Allow glue to dry and cure up to 48 hours before using boots.