Why You Should Clean, Waterproof, and Condition Your Walking Boots
Why You Should Clean, Waterproof, and Condition Your Walking Boots!
Walking boots are one of the most vital pieces of gear for any outdoor enthusiast. Whether you’re an experienced hiker tackling rugged mountain trails, a casual walker enjoying the countryside, or someone venturing into wet and muddy terrain, your boots endure a lot. Exposure to dirt, water, and harsh conditions can wear them down quickly, leading to discomfort, leaks, and a shorter lifespan. Proper maintenance—including cleaning, waterproofing, and conditioning—is essential to ensure your boots stay durable, comfortable, and reliable for years to come. Let’s explore why caring for your walking boots should be a routine part of your outdoor adventures.
1. Extend the Lifespan of Your Boots
Walking boots are built to withstand tough conditions, but without proper care, their longevity can be drastically reduced. Dirt, mud, and debris can accumulate on the surface and within crevices, leading to:
Degradation of materials: Leather can dry out and crack, while synthetic materials can become brittle over time.
Weakening of stitching: Grit and mud can wear down seams and stitches, leading to structural damage.
Abrasion damage: Walking with dirt-caked boots can cause friction, leading to premature wear, especially on high-stress areas like the toe cap and flex points.
By routinely cleaning your boots, you remove harmful debris and help preserve the integrity of their materials, keeping them in top condition for longer.
2. Maintain Waterproofing Performance
Most walking boots come with a waterproof membrane (such as Gore-Tex) or a water-repellent coating. However, exposure to mud, rain, and moisture can wear down these protective layers. When waterproofing deteriorates:
Water can seep into the boots, leading to wet and cold feet.
The breathability of the boots decreases, making them less comfortable.
Dirt buildup can clog the waterproofing material, rendering it ineffective.
Regularly reapplying a waterproofing treatment ensures your boots remain resistant to moisture, keeping your feet dry and comfortable in all weather conditions.
3. Prevent Odours and Bacterial Growth
Moisture and dirt create the perfect environment for bacteria and fungi, leading to:
Unpleasant odours: Damp boots that are not properly dried and cleaned can develop strong, musty smells.
Fungal infections: Prolonged exposure to bacteria and moisture can increase the risk of athlete’s foot and other fungal infections.
Decomposition of materials: If left unchecked, bacteria and mold can break down the boot’s lining and fabric, reducing its structural integrity.
To prevent this, always dry your boots thoroughly after use and store them in a well-ventilated area.
4. Improve Comfort and Performance
When boots are neglected, they lose their flexibility and support, making them less comfortable to wear. Proper maintenance helps:
Prevent stiffness: Conditioning leather boots keeps them supple and prevents cracking.
Retain shape and support: Dirt and moisture can warp boots, affecting their fit and comfort.
Enhance grip and traction: Clean soles provide better traction, reducing the risk of slipping on wet or uneven terrain.
Maintaining your boots ensures that every step remains comfortable, preventing blisters and foot fatigue on long hikes.
5. Save Money in the Long Run
Quality walking boots are an investment, often costing a significant amount of money. Replacing them frequently due to poor maintenance can be costly. By regularly cleaning, waterproofing, and conditioning your boots, you can:
Avoid costly repairs or premature replacements.
Maintain their resale value if you ever decide to upgrade.
Ensure they perform well for years, reducing the need for frequent purchases.
Proper care ultimately saves you money and ensures you get the most out of your investment.
How to Properly Care for Your Walking Boots!
Cleaning Your Boots
Remove loose dirt: Use a soft-bristled brush or damp cloth to wipe off mud and dust after each walk.
Wash with warm water: For deeper cleaning, use lukewarm water and a specialized boot cleaner. Avoid household detergents, as they can damage waterproof coatings.
Scrub the soles: Use a stiff brush to remove embedded dirt and stones from the tread.
Rinse thoroughly: Ensure all soap residue is removed before drying.
Drying Your Boots
Air dry naturally: Never place boots near direct heat sources (radiators, fires, or heaters) as excessive heat can cause materials to crack or shrink.
Use newspaper: Stuff boots with newspaper to absorb excess moisture and maintain their shape.
Store in a dry place: Keep boots in a well-ventilated area to prevent mold growth.
Waterproofing Your Boots
Choose the right product: Use waterproofing spray for fabric boots or wax for leather boots.
Apply when boots are clean and dry: Ensure maximum absorption for effective protection.
Allow to dry completely: Let the treatment set before wearing your boots again.
Conditioning Leather Boots
Apply a leather conditioner to prevent cracking and keep the material soft.
Avoid over-conditioning, as excessive treatment can clog the leather's natural pores.
Storage Tips
Keep boots in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Use boot trees or crumpled newspaper to retain their shape.
Never store boots in a damp environment, as this can encourage mold growth.
So Overall, What to take from this…
Your walking boots are your trusted companions on every adventure, protecting your feet from rough terrain, wet conditions, and the elements. By taking the time to clean, waterproof, and condition them regularly, you not only enhance their durability but also improve their comfort and performance. Proper maintenance ensures your boots stay in peak condition for years to come, saving you money and making every step on the trail enjoyable.
So, the next time you return from a muddy trek, don’t just toss your boots aside—show them some love! Your feet (and your wallet) will thank you for it on your next adventure.
Andrew my Fiancé bought me my new Mammut walking boots for Christmas 2016, the first Christmas together. They are amazing boots and would recommend for sure. This picture is after doing part 1 of boot maintenance. The video below shows you how I look after my boots so they last a good amount of time, as they can be rather expensive to keep buying new ones. As the saying goes “You get what you pay for”.
So this is my little selection of kit that I use to look after my foot wear. I have the mud and stone extractor which is an awesome piece of kit you will love as it removes all that thick hard mud but also any stones that are in your boot grips. The brush I use has a well behind the brush head where you can add boot cleaner which helps remove all the mud etc. Then I am still going strong with my trusted Berghaus care kit that has brush, duster, boot conditioner and then a waterproof spray that adds a waterproofing layer to your boots. I’ve linked below a kit I recommend that you can get on amazon.
These little balls are deodorising balls, that 1. make you boots smell real good and 2. gets rid of bacteria that might be growing in your shows. Highly recommend.
