Hiking boots are designed to be durable, but exposure to wet weather, dirt, and rugged terrain means that regular maintenance is crucial to ensure they remain waterproof and perform at their best.
CLEANING YOUR HIKING BOOTS:
- To prepare your shoes for cleaning, first, remove the laces and gently brush away any loose dirt using a soft brush. For any stubborn, caked-in mud on the sole, use a brush with firmer bristles or an old toothbrush.
- Next, wet your boots with either water or soap specifically designed for cleaning footwear, and give them a thorough scrub.
- Let them dry naturally, or apply some extra waterproofing protection, such as Grangers Footwear Repel Plus, or Grangers G-Wax for leather boots, while still damp.
IMPORTANT TIPS:
- Clean your boots sooner rather than later, so the leather doesn't dry out. Regardless of the material, dirt should be removed as soon as you've finished hiking.
- Avoid using direct heat sources, such as the sun or fire, to dry leather or suede boots as this can cause them to shrink and become stiff. Additionally, the adhesives used in some footwear can be affected by direct heat.
- However, sunlight is an effective natural deodorizer for insoles that may cause unpleasant odours. To dry them out and prevent bacteria growth, remove the insoles separately.
- Finally, store your clean and dry boots in a well-ventilated and dry area away from direct light. Avoid storing your boots in a plastic bag for extended periods as this can lead to unpleasant odors. Instead, allow your boots to dry thoroughly before storing them to prevent any odour buildup.