Video: How to care for your hiking boots

Even high-quality hiking boots should be maintained regularly. Proper care of hiking boots significantly extends their lifespan and durability, and helps maintain their waterproofing and breathability. When you invest in quality hiking boots, it's important to ensure they stay in good condition for a long time. Follow these instructions to keep your hiking boots in top shape year after year:

• Remove the laces and insoles.

• Brush off or rinse away the largest dirt particles. For more stubborn dirt, use a brush and boot cleaner.

• For hygiene reasons, it's good to clean the inside of the boots regularly. Boots with a membrane can be safely cleaned inside using warm water and a mild liquid detergent. Rinse thoroughly by spraying generously.

• Let the boots dry slowly. Never dry them in direct sunlight or near a heater, as wet leather "burns" very easily, which can cause it to harden and crack. You can fill the boots with paper or use a wooden shoe tree during the drying process.

• Treat the dry boots with a waterproofing agent. This helps the leather repel water without reducing breathability.

• Finally, wax the boots carefully. To stay soft and water-repellent, leather needs nutrients. The best care product is a mild wax. Treat the hooks and rivets with the same wax to prevent rust or oxidation. For leather-lined boots, apply a small amount of hand cream to the inside.

• Wipe off any excess wax with a clean cloth.

Note: Nubuck leather boots will become darker and smoother after waxing.
Always check the compatibility of the cleaning, waterproofing and wax products with the footwear you are maintaining.

Waterproofing agents
Shoe waxes
Shoe brushes and other cleaning supplies

Video instructions for easy hiking boot care:

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