Have you been putting your boots to the test? Long and intense hunting season or working in challenging environments can put a strain on any footwear that you have on.
All heavily used footwear benefits from regular maintenance, helping them perform exactly as they were designed. By giving your boots a little attention, you can enjoy longer-lasting comfort, protection, and performance.
Maintain Waterproofing & Breathability
When mud and dirt are kept at bay, the membranes and pores in your boots remain clear, allowing them to breathe and keep your feet dry. A quick clean after each use ensures your boots continue to perform in wet and challenging conditions.
Preserve Maximum Grip
Keeping the treads free from dirt and debris means your boots maintain their full grip potential. Regular cleaning keeps you confident on slippery paths, uneven terrain, or muddy trails.
Protect Against Sole Hydrolysis
Cleaning your boots regularly – especially after contact with chemicals like manure, fuels, oils, or pesticides – helps protect midsoles from hydrolysis. With this simple step, your boots stay strong and intact for longer, even in tough working conditions.
Cleaning Guide
Cleaning your boots after a long day on your feet helps remove dirt, mud, and any chemicals you’ve encountered, whether on a hunt or during a day at work. Regular cleaning keeps your boots performing at their best and prolongs the life of the leather or fabric. For boots that see heavy use – otherwise once a month – perform a deeper clean to maintain water resistance and overall condition.
Step-by-Step Cleaning:
1. Remove the laces: Soak them in a bowl of warm soapy water while you clean the rest of the boots. Use a soft-bristled brush to gently remove dirt and grime, then leave them to dry.
2. Take out the insoles: Air them out while you remove any loose dirt, gravel, or vegetation from the boots.
3. Clean the soles and rubber rand: Use warm soapy water and a soft-bristled brush to scrub away mud and debris, ensuring maximum grip and durability.
4. Wipe the leather or fabric: Use a cloth dampened with soapy water to clean the upper areas of your boots.
5. Dry naturally: Remove excess water with a dry cloth and leave your boots in a well-ventilated area to air dry. Avoid heated areas, which can damage materials.
6. Condition and protect: Once dry, apply either a conditioning cream or waterproof spray, depending on your boot type, to keep them supple and ready for any conditions.
7. Relace and go: Put your laces back in, and your boots are ready for your next adventure.
Storage
Even when not in use, boots can be affected by sole hydrolysis over time. Regular wear helps keep the midsoles active, as the compression and release of the materials allows air to circulate and maintain their structure.
Short-Term Storage Tips:
- Make sure your boots are clean and completely dry before storing.
- Store them in a dry location, away from heat sources that could damage the materials.
Long-Term Storage Tips:
- Follow the full cleaning routine outlined in our guide above.
- Ensure boots are fully dry before putting them away.
- Choose a cool, dark, and dry place for storage.
- Keep boots upright and avoid placing them on hard surfaces like concrete or vinyl, which can draw moisture.
