Boots & Shoes ::

We make this suggestion for the very beginning of a shoe's life. Before any shoe ever sees the trail, rock or street, pre-treat the upper with a protectant. Nikwax & McNett offer the best treatments for all types of leather and fabric shoes. If you start out protecting your shoes before you wear them, you can bet that they will last longer, look newer longer and give you better service. Happy feet will always make you smile.

Boots :: After cleaning boots, apply the appropriate waterproofing treatment to the entire boot, paying special attention the stitching and hardware (anywhere the leather has been punctured) to ensure complete protection from the elements. Reapply as necessary or after use in severe conditions. For best results let boots dry for 24 hours before use.

Climbing shoes :: We recommend only wearing your climbing shoes on the rock, for climbing. Don't wear them on the trail or the approach. Walking in climbing shoes allows dirt and gravel to grind into the rubber and wear down its surface prematurely. Dirty soles also have less grip when you get on the rock.

After each use, remove your climbing shoes from your pack and let them dry completely to prevent bacterial growth. Lightly use a stiff wire brush to keep the rubber clean and to renew its stickiness.

After a thorough cleaning apply a Nubuck & Suede treatment to the uppers. This will help prevent dirt from prematurely wearing out the leather. If the shoes are starting to get that all too ripe smell? Use McNett's Mirazyme to help combat bacterial growth.

Keep an eye on areas that appear worn; resole before major reconstruction is necessary. You can preserve the rubber by cleaning grit and dust off the soles and restoring the stickiness as follows:

• Rub the soles and rands lightly with a wet rag, removing as much dirt as possible, and then wipe them dry.
• Brush the bottoms with coarse sandpaper or gently use a wire brush. Brush just enough to restore the black color.
• Keep them away from sources of heat. This can deform the rubber or even delaminate the soles.
• Store them in a boot bag to keep them clean and protect them from direct sunlight.

If you're somewhat handy with tools, you can resole your rock shoes yourself. You need some rock shoe rubber and glue, which are sold as resole kits. With some basic tools you can restore your favorite pair of climbing shoes.

Reference the Glossary