PRO TIPS FOR LOOKING AFTER YOUR RUNNING SHOES

PRO TIPS FOR LOOKING AFTER YOUR RUNNING SHOES

Lengthen the life of your trainers and trail running shoes with our experienced runner top tips on how to keep them clean and prolong the life/performance of your shoes.

Running is tough on your shoes. Trail runners end up with dirt-caked outsoles, reducing traction. Road running shoes constantly battle dirt, grime and debris that can work into a shoe’s fabric and grind away at your foot like sandpaper. And that’s not to mention the damage from weather, sweat and the barrage of countless miles.

Knowing how to clean your shoes is essential for runners. They’ll look fresh and you’ll prolong your shoes’ lifespan. Here is a guide to cleaning and maintaining your trainers.

1. Cleaning your running shoes.

1. **Tap off Excess Dirt:** Before cleaning, tap your shoes together to remove loose dirt and debris. This is specifically helpful for trail running shoes as the mud can build up in the lugs of the shoes.

1. **Brush Off Dirt:** Use a soft-bristled brush (an old toothbrush works well) to gently brush away remaining dirt and debris from the outer surfaces and crevices of the shoe.

1. **Wipe with Damp Cloth:** Dampen a clean cloth with water and gently wipe down the exterior of the shoes to remove stubborn dirt and stains. Avoid submerging the shoes in water, as this can damage certain materials.

1. **Remove Insoles:** If your shoes have removable insoles, take them out and clean them separately with a mild detergent and water. Let them air dry completely before reinserting them into the shoes.

1. **Air Dry:** Allow your shoes to air dry in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Stuff them with newspaper or a dry cloth to help absorb moisture and maintain their shape.

1. **Finish with Protective Spray:** Consider applying a water and stain repellent spray to help protect your shoes from future dirt and debris buildup.

1. **Form A Routine** Keeping your shoes in a good order will prolong their life and enhance your comfort.

1. Only wear them for running

Running shoes support your feet and are comfortable to wear, so it’s easy to see why so many people choose to wear running trainers for all of their day-to-day activities. We suggest that if you want your running trainers to stay comfortable and supportive on your runs, only wear them out running.

1. Untie Your Laces

It’s easy to kick off your shoes at the end of the long run, but doing so will ruin the shape of the shoes so it’s best to untie the laces and remove your shoes by hand.