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How to clean climbing shoes The correct steps to clean climbing shoes include removing dirt, cleaning the upper andsole, and cleaning the inside of the shoe. How to Clean Climbing Gear – The Complete Guide Your climbing gear and equipment are expensive. Follow the detailed steps below to clean your climbing shoes and get rid of stench and dirt. Here are some ways clean shoes enhance performance: Better Grip: Clean soles provide better traction. Next, focus on odors. Adhering to these essential care tips will enhance the longevity and performance of your climbing shoes. Sep 16, 2022 · Maintain the sole and structure of your favorite rock shoes with these quick tips and tricks. Check out our guide on how to clean climbing shoes! May 9, 2022 · How to wash climbing shoes? There are two ways of cleaning climbing shoes, a machine or hand washing. With proper cleaning, maintenance, and prevention strategies, your climbing shoes can last longer and deliver the support you need. As the first step, you should remove all foreign materials (mud, earth, magnesite) from the outside and then move on to the interior. Then, let them air dry completely. But with proper transport, storage, inspection, and care, you can accomplish the maximum lifespan of your gear. Next, we will explore different types of climbing shoes and their specific care requirements. I never heard anybody saying you should by no means clean your shoes. Cover the climbing shoe with the baking soda paste using your hands or brushing on with a toothbrush. Easy how-to and tutorial for cleaning or washing dirty climbing shoes. Once damp and soapy, brush lightly and then rinse off. But you don’t have to live with the stench—or toss your shoes prematurely. Impact On Performance Clean climbing shoes have a significant impact on your performance. In this course, we’ll walk you through the process of cleaning shoes step-by-step, give you tips for different shoe materials, and deal with the nagging issue of shoe odor. With a little TLC, your favorite pair can stay fresh for ages (and keep your friends from avoiding you in the gym). Rather than washing your shoes we suggest wiping the inside of the shoes with disinfectant wipes or spray and setting them out to air dry. Washing your climbing shoes, synthetic or leather, can cause the materials to breakdown faster and the glue to delaminate. Cleaning climbing shoes is obviously important, not only from an aesthetic and hygienic point of view but also from a performance standpoint. After cleaning, sprinkle baking soda inside the shoes to absorb Sep 6, 2024 · Learn how to clean climbing shoes safely and effectively to eliminate odours and keep them fresh. May 25, 2025 · Proper care ensures your climbing shoes last longer and perform better. Got smelly shoes? It's no secret, here's what you need to know about cleaning your shoes. Jun 17, 2024 · Conclusion Maintaining clean and fresh climbing shoes is crucial for both performance, hygiene, and finding gym buddies. For thorough cleaning, we also recommend removing the laces (if applicable) and cleaning those as well. Don’t worry; it’s very common to have smelly climbing shoes. Clean the insoles with a damp cloth. Taking care of your climbing shoes is essential for maintaining their performance and prolonging their lifespan. Jul 19, 2024 · This guide will walk you through the steps of cleaning your climbing shoes, from basic maintenance to deep cleaning, and provide step by step guide to keep them fresh and durable. May 5, 2023 · Washing your dirty or smelly climbing shoes Cleaning climbing shoes is important to maintain their performance and extend their lifespan. Feb 12, 2013 · I have never found a good answer to this one: How do you clean rock-climbing shoes, without ruining them? Let me be more specific. I ended up spending many hours doing research and it came down to two options. Dirt, grime & bacteria are the culprits behind those funky odours in your climbing shoes. May 8, 2025 · To effectively wash rock climbing shoes, consider using gentle hand washing or specific cleaning tools. SCARPA’s guide to climbing shoe care: clean gently, avoid washing machines, air dry, and store properly for long-lasting performance. Nov 8, 2021 · Feet stinking to high heaven? Here are 11 quick and easy ways to treat your smelly climbing shoes. Nov 14, 2022 · Conclusion Climbing shoes can be a pain to keep clean. Our step-by-step guide covers easy methods to remove dirt, odors, and grime from your climbing gear. How do I prevent my climbing shoes from smelling? How to Clean Climbing Gear – The Complete Guide Your climbing gear and equipment are expensive. Mar 6, 2023 · Learn how to clean chalk off climbing shoes and avoid the negative effects of leaving chalk buildup, such as reduced grip, material damage, bad odor, and health concerns. By following these cleaning tips on how to clean rock climbing shoes, you can ensure your shoes stay in great condition, providing you with the best grip and comfort on your climbs. From removing dirt and grime to tackling odor issues, learn how to keep your climbing shoes in top shape for your next adventure. Jul 10, 2023 · Easy how-to and tutorial for cleaning or washing dirty climbing shoes. May 12, 2025 · Clean shoes start with clean feet. Let the climbing shoe air dry in location with good airflow but outside of direct sunlight or high temperatures. By applying the methods I described above, you should be able to keep your footwear clean and in top condition without having to worry too much about odor. There are quite a few ways to counteract your stinky climbing shoe situation – I’ve got 13 . Even just walking into my local climbing gym I’m greeted by a wave of smelly sweat. Yes, cleaning shoes … cleans them. Regularly wipe dust and chalk off the soles to maintain grip and prevent buildup. This guide will help you keep your shoes clean and get rid of the smell and help make your shoes last longer. Keeping climbing shoes clean and smelling fresh can be a chore. Learn how to clean climbing shoes with our step-by-step guide. Find out how to wash climbing shoes safely and when to avoid it, and discover the best products for odor elimination. These Best Practices For Climbing Shoe Cleaning and Maintenance Tips will help you keep your climbing shoes in optimal condition for longer. Dirty shoes can affect your grip and balance. Keeping them clean helps maintain optimal grip. What’s less common is the knowledge to get rid of the stink from them. I have a pair of modern leather-and-fancy-rubber climbing shoes Jun 10, 2025 · You should clean your climbing shoes every few weeks, or more often if you climb frequently. Feb 12, 2025 · Footwear Refresh can be used to clean the outside and inside of the shoe and is safe to use on all types of climbing shoes including both synthetic or suede materials. And when the May 23, 2024 · Let’s face it: climbing shoes can get funky. Climb to new heights today! Jun 17, 2025 · Learn how to clean your climbing shoes effectively with these step-by-step instructions and tips. Essential tips for outdoor climbers. Nov 24, 2024 · So, if you’re ready to get your climbing shoes looking and smelling better, then we’ve got tips on the proper way to clean them before and after your next climbing excursion. If you’re like me you won’t wear socks when you’re climbing so your climbing shoes will probably absorb all the sweat from your feet while you’re training. May 17, 2022 · Have some dirty climbing gear? Learn the smart & easy way to wash your climbing gear so it lasts longer and keeps you safe. Discover tips to extend the life of shoes. Footwear Refresh is essential for all climbers. Not a fan of socks? Make sure your climbing shoes aren't dirty. Give them a wipe down and a spray of shoe deodorizer, but drenching your shoes every week isn‘t what they are made for and might be not neccessary or good for them. Climbing outdoors generally is worse for wear on the shoes because of the extremely abrasive rocks and dirt. All you need is a soft-bristled brush and some soapy water. Jun 25, 2025 · Learn how to clean climbing shoes effectively to extend their lifespan and maintain performance. You (and your climbing partner) will thank us later. Find out why cleaning your shoes is important for your health and performance, and get tips for leather and synthetic shoes. On the other hand every 1-2 weeks seems exessive. Let the shoe sit for a few hours or days depending on how dirty your shoe is and then wash with cold water. In this video, I will show you the best ways to clean your rock climbing shoes. First, remove the laces and insole from the shoe. Next, use a soft brush to scrub the shoes clean, paying special attention to the areas around the toes and heel. With proper maintenance, your shoes will provide the traction and support you need on the rock! Jul 16, 2024 · Knowing how to clean rock climbing shoes will optimize their performance on the rock, and your climbing partner will thank you for it too Aug 7, 2025 · To clean climbing shoes, rinse them with water and scrub off dirt using a soft brush. What can I use to deodorize my climbing shoes? You can use baking soda, shoe deodorizer spray, sunlight, or homemade deodorizing recipes to deodorize your climbing shoes. Nov 19, 2025 · Charcoal inserts and other shoe inserts will help keep new climbing shoes smelling fresh. Finally, rinse the shoes thoroughly Jun 17, 2025 · Learn how to clean and maintain your climbing shoes with these step-by-step instructions using simple materials. Here are some more tips for cleaning your climbing shoes and keeping them that way- Tips for Washing Climbing Shoes Whether you primarily climb indoors or outdoors, your shoes will get pretty dirty. Aug 21, 2023 · Follow these simple steps to clean your shoes and enhance their performance. Shoes that absorb sweat, like running shoes, require regular cleaning to prevent bacterial growth. Clean gently but thoroughl Learn how to clean climbing shoes with our step-by-step guide. They’re tight, sweaty, and perfect breeding grounds for odor-causing bacteria. Oct 27, 2024 · Climbing shoes are essential gear for climbers, providing the grip and support needed to tackle challenging routes. Here are some tips on how to clean them so they will last longer. If they already smell gross, find out how to safely clean your climbing shoes and prevent future odor. Climbing shoes should be cleaned using a soft brush and water, combined with mild soap. These small steps keep bacteria from transferring straight into your shoes. Following these steps regularly will ensure your shoes remain clean and durable. Air dry the shoes at room temperature, avoiding direct sunlight. Here are some tips from our experts on How To Clean Climbing Shoes. This helps you climb more efficiently. Keep in mind that each part of your gear undergoes a rigorous and strict testing process to make sure it serves its … How to Clean Climbing Gear – The Complete Guide Read More » Mar 12, 2020 · Find out how to choose the most suitable climbing shoe for you: how to choose climbing shoes How to store my climbing shoes We know that especially at the beginning, climbing shoes can be a cross and a delight for the user, as comfort is certainly not counted among the main features of this specific product. You can find tutorials online but essentially make a paste of baking soda and water and let sit inside the shoes for 24-48 hours. Then, soak the shoes in warm water with a mild soap for about 15 minutes. Here are some steps you can follow to clean climbing shoes: Brush off excess dirt and debris from the shoes using a soft-bristled brush. In this guide, we will explore the best practices … Continue reading How Hi all! Today I'm tackling one of those common woes of us climbers that doesn't really get covered a bunch And that's How To Take Care Of Your Climbing Sh Jun 10, 2025 · By following these climbing shoes care tips, you can ensure better performance on the wall. Giving your climbing shoes a scrub is a great way to get extra life out of your shoes. Here’s how we at CHALK REBELS recommend cleaning your climbing shoes Nov 4, 2023 · Whether you’re a seasoned mountaineer or just starting out, it’s critical to know how to properly care for your climbing shoes. Clean/rinse off (I like to use a toothbrush during this process) and the water should turn a ghastly grey/brown color. Dip a soft sponge or cloth into the soapy Dec 11, 2015 · Read the best ways to stop your shoes from smelling nasty. Check out our list of the best climbing shoes and use this guide to keep them clean for a long time. However, over time, they can accumulate dirt, sweat, and odor, diminishing their performance and lifespan. It’s a Japanese shoe spray deodoriser…I had notoriously stinky feet and bouldering shoes my gf would complain constantly even just due to the lingering smell in our apartment from my shoes being inside. Keep in mind that each part of your gear undergoes a rigorous and strict testing process to make sure it serves its … How to Clean Climbing Gear – The Complete Guide Read More » We've all been there; you take off your climbing shoes at the gym and you get a big whiff. Gently scrub the shoes with a soft brush to remove dirt. These methods help preserve the integrity of the shoes while removing dirt and odors. Wash your feet before putting on climbing shoes, and make sure to swap out socks every time you finish a climb. I don‘t think anybody will dispute that. If you want to take the care of your climbing gear further, exploring drying and storage techniques will be beneficial. Nov 19, 2025 · If you’re wondering how to clean rock climbing shoes, the best way to clean them is to hand wash climbing shoes with a bit of soap, scrub them with an old toothbrush and then air dry them 100%. To better understand these cleaning methods, let’s explore each in detail. Clean gently but thoroughl Sep 5, 2023 · There comes a time when every climber asks themselves how to clean climbing shoes?! Is it even possible to get that horrible smell out of them? Jun 8, 2024 · In conclusion, keeping your climbing shoes clean and well-maintained is essential for both performance and longevity. I got a pair of my Five Ten Anasazis washed and then resoled and was able to get another few seasons of life out These Climbing Shoe Care Tips will help maintain your shoes and enhance your climbing experience. Regular cleaning and maintenance are crucial to keeping your climbing shoes in optimal condition. Increased Comfort Conclusion. Regular cleaning removes built-up dirt and helps prevent odors. Here are techniques for cleaning shoes that won’t tear apart the stitching, shrink the leather, or make your rubber less sticky. Nov 10, 2023 · Learn how to prevent and fix smelly climbing shoes with natural and effective solutions. Mar 12, 2020 · Find out how to choose the most suitable climbing shoe for you: how to choose climbing shoes How to store my climbing shoes We know that especially at the beginning, climbing shoes can be a cross and a delight for the user, as comfort is certainly not counted among the main features of this specific product. May 6, 2023 · Master climbing shoe care! Learn how to clean, prevent odors, dry, store, resole, and know when to replace your climbing shoes for peak performance. Dec 10, 2021 · Learn how to prevent and remove the stink from your climbing shoes with four methods: Lysol, hand wash, baking soda, and rubbing alcohol. Sep 29, 2020 · Simple is better when it comes to climbing shoe care. Feb 16, 2025 · Try to learn how to clean climbing shoes effectively to boost their lifespan and maintain comfort. Mix a small amount of mild soap or detergent with warm water in a bowl or sink. Dec 23, 2024 · We often get asked "can you clean your climbing shoes?" and the answer is yes! And you should clean your climbing shoes regularly to keep them at their best. In this guide, we’ll show you the step-by-step process to clean your climbing shoes effectively. Find out why keeping your shoes clean is essential for better performance and longevity. Also I made a habbit of carrying my shoes around on the outside of my bag with a biner and using shoe disinfectant right after climbing, which helps a lot too! Finally a friend mentioned to me that the ultimate odor neutralizer apparently is baking soda. By regularly cleaning off dirt and debris, storing them properly, and addressing any wear and tear promptly, you can ensure that your climbing shoes continue to provide the support and grip you need on the rock. Sep 22, 2021 · Doing proper and regular maintenance (cleaning and disinfection) on your shoes will prevent foul odor and drastically improve their lifespan. Every ±3 months or when needed give the shoes a good baking soda bath. Including preventative odor measures. May 8, 2025 · To wash rock climbing shoes, use warm water and a gentle detergent.