HOW TO CLEAN YOUR RUNNING OR HIKING SHOES

We know that running in the Outeniqua Mountains often means coming home with dirty and muddy shoes. We also know that cleaning and maintaining your gear helps improve the lifespan of your gear. Follow these steps to help extend the longevity of your shoes.

Equipment:

• A water tap (preferably outside)
• Sink or tub
• Soft brush
• Disinfectant to kill odours (if needed)

Please use products made specifically to clean your technical shoes for example NikWax. It is the best way to ensure your shoes are effectively cleaned and protected.

First Step: After your trail run or hike, if there has been excessive mud, remove as much of it as possible by either rinsing it in water (a stream will do) otherwise remove your shoes and bang the soles together repeatedly. This will help remove the excess mud from the lugs as well as any extra dirt or dust on the upper layers of your shoes.

Second Step:

• When you are at home and wish to wash your shoes, first loosen and remove the laces.
• Pull out and remove the insoles. Wash or rinse them and leave them in a well ventilated area to dry.
• Rinse your hiking or trail shoes with water. Use your shoe specific cleaning product. We suggest NikWax Sandal or Sport Shoe Wash. Apply all over and with a cloth or a soft nylon brush (an old toothbrush will work. For stubborn dirt try a nail brush), scrub and remove all dirt. Rinse well with clean water.
• Allow your shoes to completely dry at room temperature in a well ventilated area. Do not leave them to dry in the sun or near a heat source. Try placing newspaper inside your shoes to help with the drying process.
• Once your shoes are completely dry, reinsert the insoles and tie up the laces.
• For bad smelling shoes, try spraying them with an anti-odour disinfectant spray.
• Do not wash your shoes in the washing machine as it may damage them.
• Store your shoes out of the sun in a dry place. Do not leave them in a bag for an extended period of time. 

After Each Trail Run or Hike: Remove the insoles and air dry the shoes. Remember, any bad odour is generally caused by sweat from your feet and the bacteria existing in a humid environment. Air drying your shoes will help prevent this from happening.

Taking care of your gear, by regularly washing your shoes helps to maintain their longevity. When dirt penetrates the fabric of the shoe it causes the mechanical wear of the fibers to increase. The same when mud dries. It forms a crust that stiffens the outer fabric and weakens it at the creases. This may cause tears and ripping in the fabric.

If you find that you are unable to wash your shoes yourself, bring them to MountCo and we will wash them for you for a minimal fee. 

MountCo also offers minor shoe repair service free to shoes purchased from MountCo. Alternatively, you can buy ShoeGoo for DIY home repair.