‘Radiators wreak havoc’: How to take care of your walking shoes, according to experts | Walking
WWhether hitting rocks, trudging through peat bogs or keeping your feet dry in a heavy downpour, hiking boots have a tough job. To deal with this, the best hiking boots are designed for durability, but that’s not carte blanche to throw them in the closet, still wet, and expect them to be raring to go the next time you need them.
If you want your shoes to last, you’ll have to treat them with a little TLC. We spoke to walking boot expert James Turnbull from outdoor clothing specialists outside and Jeremy Stevens of Ellis Brigham for top tips for maximizing the life of your shoes, from proper cleaning to troubleshooting when necessary.
How to make your walking shoes last longer
Get the right size
The first step to making sure you’re getting maximum wear from your shoes is taken before you set foot outside, Turnbull says. “This may seem obvious, but if your shoes don’t fit you well, you’ll end up having to replace them sooner. That’s why a good fit is crucial when it comes to longevity.”
Wearing shoes that are too small can cause holes in the waterproof membrane of toenails, he says. Conversely, a shoe that is too long will be prone to excessive curling around the toe, which can cause the material to crack prematurely. The best way to avoid this is to visit a brick and mortar store. This way you can try out different shoes and talk to an experienced shoe specialist who can evaluate your foot and point you in the right direction.
Cleaned (even indoors)
“Cleaning your shoes may not seem like your first priority at the end of a long trip,” says Stevens. “But cleaning it up quickly will pay off in the long run. Keep in mind that upland soil is often slightly acidic, so clumpy clay won’t do any good for leather or stitching.”
He and Turnbull recommend cleaning dried clay pieces with a soft nylon brush, and using lukewarm water if necessary. You can also use a gentle detergent to tackle any stubborn stains.
“For a more thorough cleaning, remove the bands so you can get directly to the tongue blower area,” says Stevens. “Then remove the insoles and use a damp cloth to clean the inside of the shoe. If you don’t, small bits of dirt can clog the waterproof membrane on the inside. This will reduce breathability, and over time, bits of dirt can rub off the membrane, causing leaks.”
Grangers shoe and gear cleaner
Nikwax shoe brush
rebuke
One of the most common complaints about hiking boots is that they let water in. Sometimes, this may be due to a defect, but most of the time it is simply due to inadequate aftercare. That’s why auditing is essential.
“The audit has two benefits,” says Stevens. “Firstly to maintain the level of protection from water, and secondly to nourish the upper material so that it remains strong and supple. The type of corrector applied depends on the material. For traditional full-grain leather shoes, consider using rub-on wax (which is applied after the shoe has dried). For nubuck, suede or canvas uppers, a spray corrector is usually a better option. Apply while not Shoes are still wet from cleaning, so they can be soaked and moistened. Provides long-lasting protection.”
Grangers waterproofing wax
Nikwax waterproof spray
Never force dry
When your shoes are wet after a day in the rain, the pull of the coolant is strong. But according to Turnbull and Stevens, “forced drying” can damage leather shoes. “It absorbs moisture from the leather too quickly, leading to cracking and failure,” Turnbull warns.
So, what can you do if you’re in a pinch and need to dry your shoes for the next day? Stevens has some suggestions: “Other than letting your shoes dry at room temperature, the classic ‘fill them with newspaper’ tactic is one option. But a more modern approach is to use something like the Therm-ic Dryer V2. This handy device circulates air into the shoe to dramatically speed up the drying process.”
Thermal dryer V2
Store it properly
There’s a good chance you won’t use your shoes every day, and where you choose to store them between wearings can affect their lifespan, Turnbull says.
“Glue or binding in shoes may fail when they are not used for a long time,” he says. “It’s usually the sole that goes first. This may be due to the environment it’s stored in. If it’s too wet or wet, you can get what’s known as ‘hydrolysis.’
Hydrolysis is a process in which a chemical compound decomposes due to its interaction with water over time. It is a type of chemical decomposition, which is why it is always best to store shoes in a cool, dry place.
Put your shoes back on
Follow all the steps above, and the upper of your shoes will likely outlast the soles. The constant pressure of rocks on the rubber will eventually wear down the outsole. The good news is that an increasing number of shoes are designed to allow the problem to be solved. “Just be sure to do this before putting on the midsole,” Turnbull warns. “Once this is damaged, there is not much that can be done.”
According to Stevens, repairing broken shoes can be much more economical than replacing them with a new pair. “Most repairs are relatively cheap,” he says. “Laces can be easily replaced. Areas that become unglued can often be re-glued. If your shoes allow for them to dissolve, you can send them to a professional and have them restored with a new sole unit, ready to walk hundreds of additional miles. These types of repairs not only allow you to continue walking in your comfortable, familiar shoes, but they are much better for the planet as well.”
Boot Solution
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Paddy Maddison is a consumer journalist, outdoor apparel enthusiast and exercise junkie. If he’s not hiking the hills, he’s grinding them up on his bike, hurtling them on his skateboard, or lacing up his running shoes and hitting the sidewalks. As a result, he gets plenty of time to put the latest and greatest equipment into his filter juicer