How to clean hiking shoes I Columbia Sportswear®

Not sure how to clean up your walking shoes after a walk? Scared you’ll do them more harm than good?

Well, as you may already know, keeping your hiking boots in decent condition is pretty important when it comes to maximising their lifespan. No matter whether your footwear is made from leather, nubuck, or some other synthetic material, providing them with the proper care and attention they deserve can prevent damage and ensure your shoes stay in great shape.

The secret is in the preparation

Before you dive into the cleaning process, it’s important to get rid of any surface dirt or mud that may have built up on your recent adventures. Therefore, you should always start by removing the laces and insoles to allow for a thorough clean.

Next, use a soft bristled brush to gently remove any loose debris on the upper and soles of your boots. Don’t forget to work into all the crevices, as this is where dirt tends to hide. If your shoes are wet, do not leave them dirty to dry.

Once all the loose debris has been successfully removed, it’s time to rinse off your shoes with water. Here, you have several options. You can either wipe them over with a damp cloth or hold them under a stream of water to remove any remaining mud. You should avoid soaking them under all circumstances, as this may weaken the materials.

How to clean the uppers and soles

When it comes to the material of your hiking footwear, different cleaning techniques apply. For example, for leather boots, you should purchase a specialised leather cleaner or mild soap mixed with water. You should never use harsh chemicals no matter how dirty your shoes may be as this is likely to affect the waterproofing and cause damage to the fabric.

For nubuck or suede materials, we recommend investing in a cleaning product designed for these delicate fabrics. You should always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and never soak or wash the shoes in a machine, as this is likely to alter their shape.

Though the soles of your hiking boots will likely take the most abuse from the outdoor terrain, collecting grime, rocks, and even moisture, care is also required when it comes to cleaning them up. You should gently scrub them with a soft-bristled brush, focusing your attention on any tread patterns where debris might accumulate. And last but not least, the insoles should be simply wiped with a damp cloth or lightly spray them with a mild disinfectant to prevent bacteria build-up.

Let your shoes dry out to prevent damage

It’s important to let your shoes dry out properly once they’ve been cleaned to avoid mould and damage. You can also stuff your shoes with newspaper to absorb any excess moisture and help them maintain their shape as they dry. You should then place them in a well-ventilated area, away from excessive heat, but never in a clothes dryer or on top of a heater.

How to keep the water out

Every once in a while, you might seize the opportunity to restore the waterproofing on your boots when you clean them. This is particularly important if they’re leather or made of other synthetic materials that require added protection.

Simply apply a special waterproof spray or wax to the uppers once they’re completely dry. This process will ensure your gear is ready for any wet or rugged conditions you may encounter on your next adventure.

Now that you know how to clean your hiking shoes, here are some additional questions worth considering when selecting and maintaining your footwear: