How to care for hiking boots?

Step 1 – Unlace, remove the insole

For our example, we’ll use a “typical” outdoor boot that has two removable parts: the laces and the insole. First, clean the laces and insole separately from the main part of the boot. These smaller parts can be machine-washed at 30 °C (wash in cold water 20–29 °C). We recommend tying both ends of the laces together into one loop, as they can sometimes get tangled and lost in the walls of the washing machine. To dry them, simply hang them on a line like any other item of clothing – so far, so easy.

Don’t forget: laces and insoles go in the washing machine. The boot itself is best washed by hand. If the insole and/or laces are heavily worn, you can buy replacements from the shoe manufacturer or a specialist shop.

Step 2 – Brush the boot and knock off the dirt

Washing boots is a hands-on process. The main things you’ll need are a shoe brush and warm water. Dip the brush in water and scrub away the dirt and grime you can see with the naked eye. We recommend occasionally knocking the boots together to loosen any stuck-on dirt too – think of how footballers clean their boots after a match. Then rinse the boot under running water. Don’t forget to clean the soles in the same way.

Step 3 – Clean the inside of the boot with warm water

Once the outside of the boot is clean, focus on the inside in the same way. Use warm water to loosen any built-up dirt and tap the boot upside down to remove it. Cleaning this way does not damage the lining of the boot, as many people think, but it is the best way to make sure no deposits form that could, over time, wear the boot from the inside out. In the case of strong odours and extreme soiling, you can wash the inside of the boot with water and a mild detergent (sports detergent). Then rinse thoroughly to remove any residue.

Step 4 – Dry with newspaper

As far as cleaning goes, that’s it! Your boots probably look fantastic now, but they’ll be wet (especially inside). The best way to dry outdoor boots is to stuff them with newspaper and leave them to dry in a utility room or similar space upside down (opening facing down). After a few hours, replace the newspaper to speed up the process. (Plus: when storing boots after use, newspaper helps prevent mould.)

Warning: Don’t speed up drying by leaving boots on radiators or in the sun, for example! Wait for them to dry naturally. Leather boots can become brittle and cracks may start to appear. Other materials can be reactivated by high temperatures: this can lead to parts of the upper separating and painful deformations.

Step 5 – Waterproofing and drying

Always apply waterproofing products to boots outdoors and follow the instructions on the product. We recommend an eco-friendly, water-based pump spray. Keep in mind, however: the best time to apply a waterproofing product is a few hours after washing the boots, before they are completely dry. This is because, with many footwear materials, the pores are still open, so the waterproofing penetrates better. Leave the boots to dry for 24 hours.

Step 6 – Waxing – it’s worth it

An optional step, but one we strongly recommend, is waxing leather outdoor footwear. Always read the instructions before using the product. Use a sponge or cloth and apply generously (including the tongues). With GORE-TEX® footwear and all models with textile trims, more frequent waterproofing is necessary. Plus: wax changes the colour and texture of the boots, making them darker and shinier. However, this is a benefit for the boot. You can roughen nubuck or suede again with light sandpaper.

Once you’re done, lace them up again, put the insole back in, and enjoy your now thoroughly cleaned, adventure-ready outdoor boots.