This video clip <\/a>demonstrates the kind of cutting necessary if the gash is next to a big, all-terrain lug.<\/p>\nOnce we had a flat surface, Wagner applied the provided glue to the inside edges of the gash and held it together for a minute\u2014similar to how a doctor might glue a wound shut. Next, we selected one of the provided patches big enough to cover the gash by at least a half-inch on each side. Each kit comes with multiple trimmable patches and multiple bottles of glue.<\/p>\n![\"GlueTread](\"https:\/\/cdn.outsideonline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/GLUETREAD2.jpg?width=3840&auto=webp&quality=75&fit=cover)
The GlueTread sidewall repair kit comes with multiple patches and the tools needed to attach them. (Photo: Jakob Schiller)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nWagner carefully applied glue to the patch in a dot-grid pattern, then applied pressure to hold it on the tire for three minutes before letting it cure for 10 more minutes.<\/p>\n
The Moment of Truth<\/h2>\n
To test the patch, we filled up the tire to 30 psi and sprayed it with soapy water to check for any bubbles, which would indicate a leak. We noticed a small leak at the top edge, so we dried it off and followed the directions to apply a small thread of glue around the outside edge. After letting it cure for another 10 minutes, we filled the tire a second time and found no leaks. Both Wagner and I pushed and prodded at the patch but felt it confidently sealed the hole.<\/p>\n
Even though we didn\u2019t find any leaks after the repair, I would still check my tire regularly if I applied a patch and continued down a long backcountry road. It\u2019s easy to add air if there\u2019s a tiny leak, or apply a bit more glue. Gluetread says some drivers leave their patches on for years without any problems. I don\u2019t doubt them, but I wouldn\u2019t want to go off-grid on a patched tire because it feels more vulnerable to me. I would, however, continue to use the patched tire as a trustworthy spare.<\/p>\n
While the application process is fairly straightforward and doesn\u2019t take any mechanical expertise, I\u2019m glad Wager and I practiced; I would encourage anyone who overlands a lot to do the same. Running through the process ahead of time will give you a lot more confidence if you have to repair a tire when conditions are less than optimal.<\/p>\n
My Expert Buying Advice<\/h2>\n
The Gluetread kit isn\u2019t intended to replace a spare tire, which is far quicker and easier to swap in if I get a sidewall tear. But out in the backcountry, I always run the risk of damaging more than one tire, so I think it is worthwhile to carry a Gluetread kit<\/a> from now on. The kit costs just $50 and comes with enough supplies to repair multiple tires, which could come in handy if I\u2019m traveling with friends\u2014or have really bad luck and tear a tire more than once.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n