If you’re an avid climber, you know that having the proper gear is essential to your success. This includes having a great pair of climbing shoes! But, like any other piece of equipment, climbing shoes can get dirty and smelly after time. Luckily, there are some easy ways to keep them clean and in good condition, so you can stay comfortable (and smell nice) on every climb!
Cleaning the Outside of Your Shoes
The outside of your shoes is exposed to dirt and grime from all kinds of surfaces. To clean it up quickly and easily, mix one part baking soda with one part water in a bowl. Dip a cloth or sponge into the mixture, then use it to scrub the rubber parts of your shoes. Be sure to rinse off the mixture with cold water afterward. For tougher stains, try using a wet toothbrush or nail brush combined with some liquid dish soap. These tools will help get into hard-to-reach areas, like around the laces or under the toes. Once again, be sure to rinse off your shoes with cold water when you’re done cleaning them.
You can also use a soft-bristled brush (like an old toothbrush) to remove any dirt that’s stuck onto the soles of your climbing shoes. Just make sure not to brush too hard – otherwise you could end up damaging the rubber. After brushing away any dirt particles, finish off by wiping down your shoes with a damp cloth.
How to stop climbing shoes from smelling
To keep your climbing shoes smelling fresh between washes, sprinkle some baking soda into each shoe before storing them away for long periods of time (or overnight). The baking soda will absorb any odors that may have built up over time due to sweat or bacteria growth – leaving your shoes smelling fresh for longer!
Alternatively, if you have access to an airtight container (like an airtight plastic bag), place your climbing shoes inside along with two freshly cut lemons (cut in half). The lemon will naturally deodorize your footwear while also adding a pleasant citrus aroma! Replace the lemon slices when they start looking dry and wrinkly – usually every 2 weeks or so, depending on how heavily you use your shoes.
Wrapping Up
Cleaning and deodorizing your climbing shoes may seem like a chore at first; however, it doesn’t have to be complicated or take up much time at all! With these simple tips and tricks in mind, you can enjoy fresher-smelling feet during each climb – without breaking any sweat! If you are new to rock climbing, make sure to check out our article on Bouldering vs Rock Climbing! So grab those climbing shoes and get ready for some fun adventures on the rocks!
