Climbing shoes are an essential part of your gear, especially if you climb frequently, whether on routes or boulders, indoors or outdoors. While your climbing harness may last 10 years, climbing shoes are the pieces that wear out the fastest! And we know that they represent a significant investment in your practice. Regular maintenance can significantly extend their lifespan. Moreover, it will protect the health of your feet while ensuring better comfort.
Cleaning
Although cleaning is quick, the air-drying time can vary depending on the season and your environment. If you’re eager to get back to climbing, it’s better to have a second pair while you wait for your shoes to dry completely.
Absolutely avoid machine washing: temperature variations can warp your climbing shoes and damage their materials. Opt for hand cleaning with water, mild soap, and a small brush instead.
- Preparation : remove dirt inside and outside
- Cleaning: Dampen the shoes with soapy water, then gently brush all surfaces, from the outer rubber to the inner toe area.
- Drying : pat dry with a clean cloth, then let them air dry in a dry place, away from heat sources (radiators or direct sunlight).
Avoid bad smells
Be cautious of bad odors, as they may indicate a fungal infection, which can be difficult to eliminate once it has set in.
- Immediate ventilation: after each session, do not leave your climbing shoes confined in a bag or car trunk. Hang them outside your bag to allow them to air out.
- Home tip:
Place two teaspoons of baking soda in each shoe. Shake gently to distribute, let it sit for a few minutes, then remove any residue by shaking them well.
- Home tip:
- Produits spécialisés : utiliser des désinfectants ou des sèches-chaussons naturels, disponibles dans certains centres d’escalade ou magasins spécialisés. Ces derniers, sous forme de bâtons absorbants, sont très efficaces après une séance.
- Home tip: You can also make your own shoe dryers! Take two thin socks, fill them with baking soda and a few drops of essential oil. Lavender for odor, tea tree oil to fight fungi. Perfect for leaving your shoes in your locker!
For long training sessions, wear thin socks that can be washed after each use.
Common misconception:
Never use chalk inside your climbing shoes to absorb moisture. Over time, it forms a hard, slippery layer, which reduces the grip—essential for climbing.
Resoling your climbing shoes ?
YES !
Resoling your climbing shoes extends their lifespan while maintaining their technical performance. Replacing the sole restores grip and reduces your environmental impact.
At Zéro Gravité, we work with Andy’s Outdoor (Mr. Varappe), who does a pick-up every Tuesday. Ask at the reception for pricing details.
