How to Remove Tar/Asphalt from Shoes

Debbie asked: How do I remove tar/asphalt from golf shoes? The hot weather this past weekend has resulted in our golf shoes becoming filled with tar/asphalt. They were new, so we’re trying to seek answers on how to remove it. I tried putting a shoe in the freezer to see if the tar would become brittle, but had no success. Help!

You Will Need:

Plastic knife
Dish detergent (such as Dawn)
Old toothbrush
WD-40

Steps to Remove the Tar/Asphalt:

Begin by using the plastic knife to scrape off as much of the black goop as possible. Use caution not to gouge the sole of the shoe or damage any of the spikes.
For the remaining tar, mix some dish detergent with warm water.
Dip an old toothbrush in the mixture and use it to gently scrub the remaining tar away. It may take several applications to remove it all.
If the detergent and water does not remove the tar/asphalt, it may be helpful to lubricate it with some WD-40.
Spray some onto the stained area and allow it to set for a few minutes. Continue scrubbing with the old toothbrush as before.
When all of the tar is removed, wash the entire area down with the detergent and water mixture to remove any remaining residue from the WD-40.

Additional Tips and Ideas

There are cleaners specially designed to remove tar that can be found in the automotive section. These may also be effective in removing the tar without damaging the surface of the shoe.
Baby oil also works well as a lubricant to aid in the tar removal.
If the tar/asphalt layer is thick on the soles of the shoes, be prepared to put in some time and elbow grease to remove it all (or at least most of it).

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