How to Clean and Care for Your Climbing Shoes: Extend Their Lifespan

Quick Answer

To clean climbing shoes, remove loose dirt, hand wash with mild soap and warm water, air dry away from heat, and deodorize with baking soda. Regular care and timely resoling can significantly extend their life.

Climbing shoes are your most important piece of gear, but they often get ignored until they smell or lose grip. With proper care, you can keep them performing well and save money in the long run.

Whether you climb indoors or outdoors, a simple routine of cleaning, drying, and storing will protect the rubber and upper materials. This guide walks you through the steps to clean and care for your climbing shoes effectively.

Why Climbing Shoe Care Matters

Climbing shoes are precision tools. Dirt and grime can degrade the rubber's stickiness, while sweat and moisture can break down the glue that holds the shoe together. Regular cleaning not only improves performance but also extends the shoe's lifespan.

Neglecting care can lead to odors, reduced grip, and premature wear. By investing a little time in maintenance, you avoid frequent replacements and keep your shoes reliable when you need them most.

• Clean shoes after muddy or dusty sessions.
• Dry them naturally, away from direct heat.

Step-by-Step Cleaning Process

Start by removing excess dirt with a soft brush or cloth. Then, prepare a bowl of lukewarm water with a small amount of mild soap. Dip a cloth or soft brush into the solution and gently scrub the shoe's exterior, focusing on the rubber and upper.

Avoid soaking the shoes or using harsh chemicals, as they can damage the materials. After cleaning, wipe off any soap residue with a damp cloth. Finally, stuff the shoes with newspaper or a shoe tree to help them retain their shape while drying.

Never put climbing shoes in the washing machine or dryer. The agitation and heat can cause delamination and weaken the shoe's structure.

• Use a dedicated shoe cleaner if you prefer.
• Check for any loose stitching or damage while cleaning.

Deodorizing and Drying

Odor is a common issue, but you can manage it naturally. After cleaning, sprinkle baking soda inside the shoes and let it sit overnight to absorb moisture and smells. Alternatively, use a commercial shoe deodorizer.

Always dry shoes at room temperature in a well-ventilated area, away from radiators or direct sunlight. Heat can warp the sole and dry out the leather or synthetic materials.

Using a shoe dryer or cedar shoe trees can help maintain shape and reduce moisture buildup.

• Rotate between two pairs if you climb frequently.
• Store shoes in a breathable bag, not a sealed plastic one.

Storing Your Climbing Shoes

Proper storage prevents unnecessary wear. Keep your shoes in a cool, dry place, and avoid leaving them in a hot car or damp gym bag. Extreme temperatures can affect the rubber and adhesive.

When transporting, use a padded shoe bag to protect them from impacts. If you have laced shoes, loosen them slightly to reduce tension on the eyelets.

Avoid stacking heavy gear on top of your shoes, which can deform their shape.

• Consider using shoe trees to maintain shape.
• Keep them away from direct sunlight.

When to Resole

Resoling is a cost-effective way to extend the life of your climbing shoes. If you see the rubber wearing thin or the sole separating from the upper, it's time to consider a resole. Most shoes can be resoled once or twice, depending on the brand and damage.

Check the rand (the rubber wrapping around the toe) for signs of wear. If the rand is compromised, a resole might not be possible, but the shoe may still be usable for less technical climbs.

Professional resoling services can give your shoes a new lease on life for a fraction of the cost of new ones.

• Inspect your shoes every few months.
• Resole early to avoid damage to the shoe's upper.

Step-by-Step Care Routine

1. Remove Loose Dirt: After each climb, tap your shoes together to dislodge dirt and use a soft brush to clean the outsoles and uppers. Prevents abrasive particles from grinding into the rubber.
2. Hand Wash with Mild Soap: Mix lukewarm water with a drop of mild soap. Use a cloth to gently scrub the entire shoe, paying attention to seams and rubber edges. Avoid harsh detergents and never machine wash.
3. Rinse and Dry: Wipe off soap with a damp cloth, then stuff shoes with newspaper. Air dry at room temperature away from heat sources. Ensure they are completely dry before storing to prevent mold.
4. Deodorize Regularly: Sprinkle baking soda inside after drying, or use a deodorizing spray. Let it sit overnight, then shake out. Keeps odor under control without harsh chemicals.
5. Inspect and Resole: Check the sole and rand monthly. If the rubber is worn down to the midsole, take them to a professional resoler. Timely resoling extends the shoe's life for a fraction of the cost.

Recommended Gear for Shoe Care

• Pure Tank Men's: Our Pure Tank is the perfect choice for warm-weather trail runs. Made from soft, breathable 100% recycled polyester, this minimal top has bonded hems to prevent chafing on long-distance routes. While not directly related to cleaning, wearing breathable clothing reduces sweat transfer to your shoes, helping them stay drier and less odorous.
• Session Tech Hoody Women's: The Session Tech Hoody offers an ideal mix of windproof body protection and warming fleece panels for intense training and fast mountain ascents. Proper layering during approach or training keeps you comfortable, so you can focus on technique and reduce unnecessary stress on your shoes.

Caring for your climbing shoes is a simple habit that pays off with longer-lasting performance and savings. By following these steps, you'll keep your shoes fresh, sticky, and ready for every session.