Let's face it—climbing shoes can get funky. While your climbing partner may not be running for the hills, there's a good chance they can detect the faint aroma of French cheeses emanating from your neglected footwear.
The good news is that a few simple steps can take your shoes from funky to fresh. Let's dive in.
Prevention is key
If your climbing shoes never stink in the first place, then congratulations, you are better than the rest of us you can stop reading after this section! Here are two tips for keeping your shoes in tip-top shape:
1. Store your shoes in a well-ventilated area: As soon as you're done climbing, air out your shoes! Unlace them or undo the velcro and let those puppies breath. For long-term storage, hang them from a hook in a mudroom, garage, or other cool, dry area.
2. Start with clean feet: Wash or wipe your feet down before your climbing session! Sticking sweaty feet in tight climbing shoes is bound to cause odor issues.
When a good scrub is the only way
If your shoes are past the point of no return, fear not. A simple scrub will leave them good as new. The trick is to use water, a soft brush, and mild soap. Be sure to clean the exterior and interior, paying extra attention to the toe box where bacteria is likely to grow. Try not to be discouraged by the muddy water currently filling your bathtub; you're now the type of climber who cleans their shoes!
Once the water is running clear, shake out your shoes and let them air dry. Your shoes will take 12-24 hours to dry, so now is a good time to take that rest day.
Avoid the washing machine and the sun
If you only take away two tips from this reading, have them be: never put your shoes in the washing machine and don't leave them out in the sun. Water, detergent, and heat can destroy the leather, rubber, and adhesive that make your shoes so durable.
Same goes with the sun. Exposure to UV rays can melt adhesive and warp the rubber on your shoes. Pro-tip: on a hot summer day, the inside of your car can easily reach 138° in an hour. If you must keep your climbing shoes in the car, make sure the AC is on, they have water, and they're listening to their favorite music.
We've got you
Like a proper heel hook, knowing how to care for your climbing shoes is one of those things that comes with time. But at Movement, we're here to help. Our front desk team members are happy to answer your questions and show you around our gear shop.
Climb on!