Hiking shoes are a valuable investment for any outdoor enthusiast.
They accompany you on the most difficult trails, in the most varied weather conditions.
To extend their lifespan and ensure optimal comfort, it is essential to maintain them properly.
Here are our 10 detailed tips for taking care of your hiking shoes.
1/ Clean your shoes regularly
Why clean your shoes after every outing?
Dirt, mud, and debris can build up on your shoes while you’re hiking. If not cleaned regularly, these particles can damage the materials and reduce the durability of your shoes. Dirt can also clog the pores of waterproof membranes, reducing their effectiveness.
How to properly clean your shoes?
✔ Brushing: Use a soft brush to remove mud and dirt on the surface of the shoe. An old toothbrush works well for hard-to-reach areas.
✔ Washing: Rinse your shoes with warm water to remove residue. If necessary, use a mild soap specially designed for hiking equipment.
Be careful with sensitive areas : Pay particular attention to seams and fabric areas, which may be more fragile.
2/ Do not let them dry in the sun
Why avoid direct heat sources?
Materials used in hiking boots, such as leather, waterproof membranes, and glues, can be damaged by excessive heat. Leather can crack, membranes can lose their waterproofing, and glues can deteriorate.
Recommended drying methods
✔ Air dry: Allow your shoes to air dry in a well-ventilated area.
✔ Use newspaper: To speed up drying, stuff the inside of your shoes with newspaper. Change the paper regularly until the shoes are completely dry.
✖ Avoid radiators and direct sunlight: Never place your shoes directly on or near a radiator, fire or in direct sunlight.
3/ Waterproof your shoes
The importance of waterproofing
Even if your shoes have a waterproof membrane, such as KimberTex , they still benefit from an additional waterproofing treatment. This treatment helps repel water and maintain the breathability of the materials.
How to apply a waterproofing spray?
✔ Pre-cleaning: Make sure your shoes are clean and dry before applying the product.
✔ Even application: Spray the spray from a distance recommended by the manufacturer, usually about 20 cm. Cover the entire surface of the shoe evenly.
✔ Drying: Allow the product to dry completely before wearing the shoes.
4/ Maintain the leather
Why does leather require special attention?
Leather is a natural material that can dry out, crack or lose its suppleness if not properly maintained. Regular maintenance with specific products helps extend the life of the leather and maintain its protective properties.
Steps to Maintain the Leather of Your Shoes
✔ Cleaning: After removing dirt and mud, wipe the leather with a damp cloth.
✔ Applying cream or wax: Use a cream or wax specially formulated for leather. Apply a small amount with a soft cloth or brush, using circular motions.
✔ Penetration: Allow the product to penetrate the leather for a few hours, preferably overnight.
✔ Polishing: If necessary, buff the leather with a clean cloth for a smooth, shiny finish.
5/ Check the soles regularly
Why should you regularly check the condition of your soles?
Soles are subject to intense wear and play a vital role in grip and stability. A worn sole can increase the risk of slipping and decrease the overall comfort of the shoe.
How to inspect and maintain soles?
✔ Visual Inspection: Check the soles for signs of wear, such as smooth areas, cracks or detachments.
✔ Cleaning: Remove stones and debris stuck in the grooves of the soles.
✔ Resoling: If the soles are severely worn, consider having your shoes professionally resoled. This can significantly extend their lifespan.
6/ Replace the laces
The importance of good laces
Laces keep your shoes firmly attached, ensuring a snug fit and optimal support. Worn or broken laces can cause inconvenience while hiking and increase the risk of injury.
Tips for replacing laces
✔ Regular check: Regularly check the condition of your laces for signs of wear or deterioration.
✔ Choosing laces: Choose sturdy laces, preferably designed for hiking boots. They should be long enough to allow secure lacing.
✔ Preventative replacement: Replace laces as soon as they show signs of weakness, before they break in the middle of a hike.
7/ Maintain the insoles
Why are insoles important?
Insoles play a crucial role in the comfort and support of your feet. They absorb shock and help distribute pressure properly. Worn out insoles can cause pain and discomfort.
Maintenance and replacement of insoles
✔ Regular removal: Remove the insoles after each hike to let them dry completely.
✔ Cleaning: Clean the insoles with warm water and mild soap if necessary.
✔ Replacement: Replace worn or deformed insoles. You can opt for specific insoles adapted to your needs , such as orthopedic insoles or reinforced hiking insoles.
8/ Pay attention to storage
The importance of good storage
Proper storage helps maintain the shape and functionality of your shoes. Moisture and extreme temperatures can cause significant damage to materials.
How to Store Your Shoes Properly
✔ Dry and ventilated place: Store your shoes in a dry, cool and well-ventilated place. Avoid damp basements and overly hot attics.
✔ Using shoe trees: Shoe trees help maintain the shape of your shoes and absorb any remaining moisture. Choose ones made of untreated wood, such as cedar, for their absorbent properties.
✔ Dust Protection: Keep your shoes in a canvas bag or in their original box to protect them from dust.
9/ Avoid chemicals
Why chemicals can be harmful to your shoes?
Harsh chemicals, such as bleach or solvents, can degrade the materials in your shoes. They can fade colors, weaken seams, and reduce the effectiveness of waterproof membranes.
Safe alternatives for cleaning
✔ Mild soap: Use a mild soap specially designed for outdoor gear.
✔ Specialized products: There are cleaning and maintenance products specifically formulated for hiking boots. These are designed to be effective while being gentle on the materials.
10/ Adapt your shoes to your outing to prevent wear and tear
Why is prevention essential?
Taking care of your hiking boots in advance can prevent major damage and extend their lifespan. Adapting your boots to the hiking conditions helps minimize wear and ensure optimal comfort.
Prevention tips
✔ Choosing the right shoes: Make sure your shoes are suitable for the type of hiking you are doing. For muddy terrain, opt for shoes with good waterproofing and non-slip soles.
✔ Adapt to weather conditions: In case of rain, use gaiters to protect your shoes and feet from moisture.
✔ Dry after each use: Dry your shoes after each hike, even if they do not appear wet. Residual moisture can damage the materials in the long term.
By following these tips, you can enjoy your hiking boots for many years to come and hit the trails with confidence. Proper maintenance not only extends the life of your boots but also improves your comfort and safety during your outdoor adventures.
Happy hiking!
