Can You Wash Rock Climbing Shoes? Yes, you can wash rock climbing shoes, but it’s crucial to do it carefully to avoid damage, and rockscapes.net is here to guide you through the process. Learn how to safely clean your climbing shoes and maintain their performance while keeping them fresh. Proper shoe care extends the life of your climbing gear.
1. Why Do Climbing Shoes Get So Smelly?
The primary reason climbing shoes develop unpleasant odors is the warm, moist environment inside the shoe, which is ideal for bacteria growth. This can be prevented by taking care of your climbing footwear.
Climbing shoes, due to their snug fit and the physical exertion involved in climbing, naturally trap heat and sweat. This creates a breeding ground for bacteria that thrive on moisture and organic compounds found in sweat. These bacteria break down the sweat, producing byproducts that cause the distinctive, often pungent, smell associated with used climbing shoes. Furthermore, dirt and grime from climbing surfaces can accumulate inside the shoe, adding to the problem. Regular cleaning and proper maintenance are essential to combat this issue.
1.1 The Role of Sweat and Bacteria
Sweat, combined with the enclosed environment, creates a breeding ground for odor-causing bacteria. Wearing rock climbing shoes without socks is one of the fastest ways to make them smell.
The human foot contains over 250,000 sweat glands, making it one of the sweatiest parts of the body. When you’re climbing, your feet can sweat profusely, leading to a buildup of moisture inside your shoes. This moisture, combined with the lack of ventilation in tightly fitted climbing shoes, provides an ideal environment for bacteria to flourish. The bacteria feed on the organic compounds in sweat, such as urea and lactic acid, breaking them down into volatile fatty acids, which are responsible for the unpleasant odors. Regular use of odor eliminators and proper drying can help manage this issue.
1.2 Material Matters: Leather vs. Synthetic
Leather climbing shoes generally breathe better than synthetic ones, helping to reduce odor buildup.
Leather is a natural material with inherent breathability due to its porous structure. This allows air to circulate more freely inside the shoe, which helps to evaporate moisture and reduce the humidity that bacteria thrive on. Synthetic materials, on the other hand, are often less breathable, trapping moisture and heat inside the shoe. Leather’s breathability not only reduces odor but also contributes to foot comfort by keeping your feet cooler and drier. However, leather shoes may require more care to maintain their condition and prevent them from becoming stiff or cracked. This is why you will see vegan or animal-free climbs opt-in for synthetic rock climbing shoes.
2. Quick Fixes to Stop Climbing Shoes from Smelling
Preventing odors is better than trying to eliminate them after they’ve taken hold. Here are some proactive strategies.
2.1 Air Them Out
Always remove your climbing shoes from your gym bag and let them air out after each use to prevent moisture buildup.
After a climbing session, the interior of your shoes is likely damp from sweat. Leaving your shoes sealed inside a gym bag traps this moisture, creating a perfect environment for bacteria to multiply. Removing your shoes from the bag and allowing them to air out promotes evaporation, reducing the moisture content and hindering bacterial growth. This simple step can significantly reduce odor buildup and extend the lifespan of your shoes.
2.2 Use Odor Eliminators
Sprays, dryer sheets, and products like Boot Bananas can help absorb moisture and neutralize odors.
Boot Bananas: Well-used deodorizers effectively eliminate odors from climbing shoes.
Odor eliminators work by either absorbing moisture, neutralizing odor-causing compounds, or both. Sprays often contain antimicrobial agents that kill bacteria, while dryer sheets and products like Boot Bananas contain absorbent materials like charcoal or silica gel that wick away moisture. Boot Bananas are specifically designed for climbing shoes, containing natural ingredients that absorb moisture and leave a pleasant scent. Regular use of these products can keep your shoes fresh and prevent the buildup of unpleasant odors.
2.3 Keep Feet Clean and Dry
Ensure your feet are clean and dry before putting on your climbing shoes; consider using chalk to absorb sweat.
Clean feet are less likely to introduce bacteria and dirt into your shoes. Washing your feet with soap and water before climbing removes sweat, dead skin cells, and other debris that can contribute to odor. If your feet tend to sweat excessively, applying a thin layer of climbing chalk can help absorb moisture and keep your feet dry. This reduces the humid environment inside the shoe, making it less favorable for bacterial growth.
2.4 Consider Wearing Socks
Although not always popular, wearing thin socks can significantly reduce the amount of sweat absorbed by your shoes.
Wearing socks creates a barrier between your feet and the inside of the shoe, preventing sweat and skin cells from directly contacting the shoe’s materials. This significantly reduces the amount of moisture and organic matter available for bacteria to feed on. Thin socks made from breathable materials like merino wool or synthetic fabrics can help wick away sweat and keep your feet dry, further minimizing odor. While some climbers prefer the sensitivity of climbing without socks, wearing them can greatly extend the lifespan of your shoes and reduce the frequency of cleaning.
3. The Great Debate: Can You Really Wash Climbing Shoes?
There are conflicting opinions on whether or not washing climbing shoes is safe, even among shoe manufacturers. Rockscapes.net recommends washing but doing it cautiously.
3.1 Manufacturer Recommendations
Some brands advise against washing, fearing it can weaken the shoe’s structure, while others suggest it can be beneficial. Scarpa, for example, believes regular cleaning can remove harmful salts and chemicals.
Evolv advises against washing climbing shoes because they believe that it will weaken the shoe’s structural integrity. On the other hand, Scarpa believes that the salts and chemicals from our sweat reduces elasticity and strength of the shoe’s materials.
3.2 Washing Shoes: The Potential Benefits
Washing can remove dirt, grime, and odor-causing bacteria, potentially extending the life of your shoes, according to Scarpa.
Washing climbing shoes can remove accumulated dirt, grime, and salt deposits that can degrade the shoe’s materials over time. Sweat contains salts and other chemicals that can stiffen and weaken the leather or synthetic fibers, reducing their elasticity and strength. By removing these contaminants, washing can help maintain the shoe’s flexibility and prolong its lifespan. Additionally, washing eliminates odor-causing bacteria, keeping your shoes fresh and comfortable.
4. How to Clean Climbing Shoes: Step-by-Step Guide
For most climbing shoes, hand washing is the safest and most effective cleaning method.
4.1 Gathering Your Equipment
You’ll need a soft brush (like a toothbrush), warm water, and a mild soap or specialized shoe cleaner.
A soft brush is essential for gently scrubbing away dirt and grime without damaging the shoe’s materials. Warm water helps to dissolve dirt and loosen debris, while a mild soap or specialized shoe cleaner effectively removes odor-causing bacteria and contaminants. Avoid harsh detergents or chemicals, as they can degrade the shoe’s adhesives and materials.
4.2 The Washing Process
Rinse the shoes with warm water, gently scrubbing the inside and outside with a soft brush.
Carefully cleaning climbing shoes with warm water and a soft brush to remove dirt and odors.
Begin by rinsing the shoes with warm water to remove loose dirt and debris. Then, apply a small amount of mild soap or shoe cleaner to the brush and gently scrub the inside and outside of the shoes, paying attention to areas that accumulate the most sweat and dirt, such as the footbed and toe box. Rinse thoroughly with warm water to remove all traces of soap. Be gentle when scrubbing to avoid damaging the shoe’s materials or adhesives.
4.3 Drying Your Shoes
Stuff the shoes with paper or a cloth to help them retain their shape and dry them in a warm, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight or heat.
After washing, gently squeeze out excess water from the shoes. Stuffing them with paper or a cloth helps to absorb moisture and maintain the shoe’s shape as it dries. Place the shoes in a warm, well-ventilated area, such as a room with a fan or an open window. Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources, as they can cause the shoe’s materials to shrink, crack, or delaminate. Allow the shoes to dry completely before using them again, which may take several hours or even a day.
4.4 Avoid These Drying Mistakes
Never use a drying machine or expose your shoes to excessive sunlight, as these can damage the materials and cause delamination or deformation.
Drying machines use high heat, which can damage the shoe’s adhesives, causing the sole to separate from the upper. Excessive sunlight can also degrade the shoe’s materials, causing them to become brittle, cracked, or discolored. Always air dry your shoes in a cool, well-ventilated area to prevent damage and prolong their lifespan.
5. Cleaning Dirty Soles for Better Grip
Cleaning the soles of your climbing shoes can significantly improve their grip and extend their lifespan.
5.1 Why Clean Soles Matter
Dirty soles can reduce friction, making it harder to stick to holds. Cleaning them removes chalk, dirt, and grime that can accumulate and decrease grip.
5.2 Quick Cleaning Tips
Wipe your shoes off before climbing to remove loose dirt and chalk. Periodically scrub the soles with water and a brush to remove stubborn grime.
Before each climb, take a moment to wipe your shoes off on a clean surface, such as a towel or your pant leg. This removes loose dirt and chalk that can accumulate on the soles. For more thorough cleaning, periodically scrub the soles with water and a brush to remove stubborn grime and restore their grip.
6. Maintaining Cleanliness and Performance
Regular cleaning and proper care can keep your climbing shoes fresh, grippy, and long-lasting.
By following these steps, you can keep your climbing shoes in good condition, ensuring they perform well and last longer. Remember, proactive care is the best way to avoid smelly shoes and maintain your climbing performance.
7. Rockscapes.net: Your Partner in Climbing Shoe Care
At rockscapes.net, we understand the importance of maintaining your climbing gear. Explore our website for more tips, product recommendations, and expert advice on keeping your climbing shoes in top condition. Contact us at 1151 S Forest Ave, Tempe, AZ 85281, United States, or call +1 (480) 965-9011.
8. Addressing Climber’s Challenges
Rockscapes.net is here to help you overcome the challenges of maintaining your climbing footwear. We address the issues that may affect your climbing performance:
- Selecting the Right Products: Finding effective cleaners and maintenance tools can be overwhelming. Rockscapes.net offers curated recommendations and expert reviews to help you choose the best products for your shoes.
- Preventing Damage: Many climbers worry about damaging their shoes during cleaning. Our step-by-step guides and expert tips minimize the risk of harm, ensuring your shoes remain in excellent condition.
- Extending Shoe Lifespan: Proper maintenance is essential for extending the life of your climbing shoes. Rockscapes.net provides comprehensive care strategies to help you get the most out of your investment.
- Combating Odor: Persistent odors can be a nuisance. Our website offers practical solutions and preventive measures to keep your shoes smelling fresh and clean.
9. Call to Action
Ready to take the next step? Visit rockscapes.net to discover a wide range of climbing shoe care products, detailed guides, and personalized advice from our team of experts. Let us help you keep your climbing shoes in peak condition.
10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
10.1 Can I use regular detergent to wash my climbing shoes?
No, regular detergents can be too harsh and may damage the adhesives and materials of your climbing shoes. Use a mild soap or a specialized shoe cleaner instead.
10.2 How often should I wash my climbing shoes?
Wash your climbing shoes as needed, depending on how often you climb and how much they sweat. A good rule of thumb is to wash them every few months or when they start to smell.
10.3 Can I put my climbing shoes in the washing machine?
It’s generally not recommended to put your climbing shoes in the washing machine, as the agitation and heat can damage them. Hand washing is the safer option.
10.4 How long does it take for climbing shoes to dry?
Climbing shoes can take several hours or even a day to dry completely, depending on the humidity and ventilation. Ensure they are fully dry before using them again.
10.5 Is it okay to climb with slightly damp shoes?
Climbing with slightly damp shoes can affect their performance and grip. It’s best to wait until they are completely dry before climbing.
10.6 Can I use a hairdryer to speed up the drying process?
Using a hairdryer on low heat can speed up the drying process, but be careful not to overheat the shoes, as this can damage them. Keep the hairdryer moving and maintain a safe distance.
10.7 How do I get rid of stubborn odors in my climbing shoes?
For stubborn odors, try using a mixture of baking soda and water to scrub the inside of the shoes. Let it sit for a few hours before rinsing and drying.
10.8 What’s the best way to store my climbing shoes?
Store your climbing shoes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Use a shoe bag or box to protect them from dust and damage.
10.9 Can I use rubbing alcohol to clean my climbing shoes?
Avoid using rubbing alcohol, as it can break down the adhesives in the shoes. Water and mild soap are the best options.
10.10 Do different types of climbing shoes require different cleaning methods?
While the general cleaning process is similar for most climbing shoes, leather shoes may require special care to maintain their condition. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for specific cleaning instructions.
