While growing up, dirtying, dusting, and scuffing-up our footwear may have been frowned upon.
However, at Oboz, we fully embrace it. In fact, we encourage it.
The signs of a day well-spent on the trails can be translated through the condition of your hiking footwear. Oftentimes you arrive back at the car, camp, etc. and your shoes are the first to come off; tossed in the back seat or into a random bag.
But after awhile, dirt and caked-on mud can actually dry out fabric and leather, abrading the fibers of the footwear. This ultimately leads to your hikers wearing down faster. At Oboz, we recommend cleaning and waterproofing your footwear frequently, and at least once seasonally. This helps to prolong the lifespan of the shoes and keep them in tip-top trail shape.
Caring for your footwear is simple, just follow these three easy steps:
- Clean
- Proof
- Dry
Clean
Start by brushing or wiping off all dirt and mud, remove shoelaces, and the O FIT insole. Rinse the footwear prior to applying the cleaning gel. We recommend using Nikwax Footwear Cleaning Gel (green cap) over a sink. This cleans the breathable surface, and prepares boots for any waterproofing treatment. When cleaning, avoid solvents, petroleum, and detergents. Once you have generously applied the gel, rinse the boots once again.
Also remember to brush off your boots at the conclusion of each hike. This can help to avoid the spread of invasive species from one trail to another.
Waterproof
Next up: waterproofing.
All Oboz footwear has a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) finish on the outside leathers and textiles, which can benefit from occasional retreating. If the surface of your shoes is absorbing water, it’s time to re-waterproof. Even styles with a B-DRY membrane will benefit from re-waterproofing.
Apply Nikwax Nubuck and Suede Proof all over your footwear. Drying takes a few minutes - and a couple funky dance moves. Wipe off any excess proof. This process revives breathability, reduces sweaty feet, and eliminates the “false leaking” sensation when excess perspiration can be confused with water coming in from the outside environment.
Dry
Let the boots air-dry completely. Do not put your shoes in a clothes washer or dryer. This will send your footwear to an early grave and adversely affect fit.
Put the laces back in and you’re ready to hit the trails!
