To restore climbing shoes and maintain their performance, focus on cleaning and occasional surface treatments. Here's how:
Daily Maintenance
The key to longevity in climbing shoes lies in simple, consistent care after each climb:
- Clean the Soles and Rands: After each session, use a wet rag to gently rub away dirt from the soles and rands. Then, ensure they are completely dry to prevent the build-up of grime and potentially harmful mold. This process helps maintain the rubber's grip by removing loose particles.
Restoring Grippiness
When your shoes lose their stickiness, consider the following carefully:
- Lightly Sanding or Wire Brushing: As mentioned in the reference material, gently use coarse sandpaper or a wire brush on the areas of the sole and rand that have lost grip. However, be very careful when using this method because aggressive treatment can lead to premature wear. Only apply this technique judiciously to avoid damaging the rubber.
Avoid These Practices
To preserve your climbing shoes, avoid these actions that can damage them.
- Washing Machines: Do not put climbing shoes in a washing machine, as the harsh agitation and high temperatures can ruin the rubber and construction.
- Excessive Heat: Do not leave shoes in hot cars or direct sunlight, as heat can cause the glue to break down, impacting the shoes' structural integrity.
Restoration Summary
Here's a quick guide:
| Step | Description | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Cleaning | Wet rag rub and drying of soles and rands | After each use |
| Surface Treatment | Lightly sand or wire brush to restore grip. | As needed |
| Avoid Harsh Treatment | Refrain from machine washing or exposing shoes to extreme heat | Always |
Maintaining your climbing shoes through these methods is essential to their longevity and performance, allowing you to climb more effectively and safely.
