shoes

How to Clean Climbing Shoes?

February 6, 2020 by Annet

Keeping sports equipment in good shape is a necessity for those who want to perform their best, and there are even sports where the life of the participant might hang in the balance. For those who have chosen the sport of climbing, making sure all their gear is in top shape can be essential. While most pieces of equipment come with a manual on how to care for them, shoes are often an item where there is an assumption that everyone knows how to care for them. For those who are wondering how to clean climbing shoes, there are a few things to remember.

The majority of shoes used in climbing are designed specifically to help support the climber in several different ways, and the materials used are not generally ones that can be tossed into a home washing machine. Many of them have leather uppers to keep sweat from being an issue while daring the heights, so this is not a material known for its affiliation with soap and water. Cleaning shoes grimy from rock dust and trail dirt is not going to be as easy as selecting a cycle.

The most minimal way on how to clean climbing shoes is to wipe them with a dry cloth, and it can be an effective way to get started on the process. Getting rid of the outer layers of dust can be easily done with one swipe of a soft cloth or even a paper towel, so that might be a good place to begin the process. For those who find their shoes are not quite as pristine as they want, there are other options to consider.

A stiff brush can get into the cracks and crevices of almost anything, and using one of these particular items could be a good way to clean them. Without the use of water, the dirt and dust will tend to fly off when gently brushed, and the climber will be able to better see if they have gotten off all the dirt. While this is a good way to get most of the work done, it may take another step to get the shoes completely clean.

Using cold water and a mild detergent could be the only way to do the perfect cleaning job on climbing shoes, but taking a good look at the materials first will be an essential step in the process. Most leathers will slowly soak up water, so those willing to work fast could be able to use this method to ensure their equipment is taken care of properly. Speed is essential to keep the shoes from absorbing too much water, but they can also be cleaned with a few timely breaks to keep the shoes from getting too wet.

While taking off the dirt and grime on the outside is a process involving several options, there is also the matter of the inside cleanliness. Climbing can be sweaty work, and shoes will absorb the odor and bacteria from it. Cleaning out the inside of the shoes might present issues for those unable to toss them into the washer, but there are other ways of getting the same result.

There are sprays on the market today that offer relief from bad smelling shoes, and most of them can be used in this case. Simply hold the shoe by its sole and spray into it. That should help kill of the bacteria, and it is often a good way to remove the smell. Letting the shoes air dry outside on the porch could also be helpful in this case. There are also activated charcoals that can be stuffed into the inside of the shoe to chase away odors, and they are remarkably good at removing odors. Checking with the local sports equipment store would be helpful when searching for a good solution for this issue.

How to Clean Velvet Shoes?

February 6, 2020 by Annet

Velvet shoes seem to never go out of style. In fact, they have been on trend for centuries. If you have a great pair of velvet shoes, you can literally wear them for a lifetime without feeling outdated. This means you’ll need to make sure you keep them clean and in good shape. If your velvet shoes are clean, they can maintain a luxurious appearance. Check out the information below with tips on how to clean velvet shoes.

Materials Used for Velvet

Velvet can be made from different materials. There was a time when they were only made out of high-end materials, such as silk. This was when velvet was mostly worn by people considered to be high-class, wealthy or royal. When synthetic materials were first introduced to the world, the use of velvet expanded because it was made from affordable materials. As a result, velvet shoes became accessible by a greater number of people.

In addition to silk, now you can find velvet made from rayon, cotton, polyester and microfiber. This means the velvet shoes you have might include any of these materials. When learning how to clean velvet shoes, start by looking at the list of materials.

Eliminating Stains from Velvet Shoes

Given that shoes are usually on the floor, there’s a good chance something will spill on them or you’ll step into a substance that needs to be removed. The goal should always be to make sure your shoes don’t get stained. You can achieve this goal by wiping off whatever is spilled before it can set in and create a stain.

To clean velvet shoes, you’ll need a soft towel, warm water, mild liquid soap and a soft toothbrush. It’s best to use a microfiber towel. You will then create a cleaning solution by filling a bowl with a cup of warm water and then adding a drop or two of liquid soap. Make sure the soap is mixed well into the water until you see suds. For a natural solution, use white vinegar and baking soda, which can work just as good as soap. Now it’s time to use the toothbrush to clean your velvet shoes. You should scrub them gently and spend extra time where there are marks or stains.

After scrubbing your shoes, use the microfiber towel to blot the water until it’s fully absorbed. You should keep your shoes out in the open to make sure they are entirely dry. After a sufficient amount of time has passed and your shoes are completely dry, use a lint brush to improve the appearance of your shoes. Make sure you brush them in one direction.

Removing Dust and Dirt from Velvet Shoes

If your shoes just have dust or dirt that’s on the surface, you may not need to use a liquid solution. Instead, you can use a cloth and soft toothbrush to clean them. Sometimes the type of materials used to make the shoes will warrant a non-liquid method of cleaning to prevent damage. This is especially true if your velvet shoes are made of silk. This works best if you remove all of the dust, dirt and particles after each wear. If the dirt sets in by sitting for a long period of time, this method might not work. When brushing your velvet shoes, make sure you brush them in the same direction. To keep your velvet shoes clean, store them in a place where they are not susceptible to particles in the environment. An enclosed shoebox is the perfect location.

How Long Do Shoes Last?

February 6, 2020 by Annet

It’s one of our biggest questions when it comes to shoes; will this pair last me a lifetime? How long do shoes last depends on a lot of factors. There’s no one rule that fits every pair answer here, instead several considerations come together to shape the answer for each pair.

When assessing how long do shoes last, there is an average figure out there to start from. You can expect a standard pair of regular shoes to last up to a year with substantial use. Runners will find that number even shorter if they do extended training sessions as well as marathons.

What Are The Signs That A Shoe Needs Evaluation?

The insole is a surprising indicator that the shoe has seen better days. Over the course of its lifespan. This important part of shoe will experience direct contact with the foot itself, even if you wear socks. The consistent movement means it will move back and forth. Friction over time is enough to dislodge it from the natural placement. At this point, many wearers just slide it back into place or replace it with a store bought insole. Either choice is fine, but the breakdown of the layer of glue that holds it in place.

Outside of the shoe, the fabric or material itself is a good indication. If colors seem faded, it could be just an appearance issue or it could show you that the shoe needs a bit more attention. The outsoles are crucial to every step and they require your attention, especially if the shoes are for exercise. Check along the sides to see if there are dents or gaps missing from the area. Flip the shoes over to look at the patterns cut into the sole. Those patterns that appear worn down to the base or warped could pose problems later on.

One big issue for shoes is the outsole pulling apart from the shoe itself. Many people think this happens only to lower priced shoes or store brands; the actual answer is this might happen to any shoe regardless of value. It’s a problem that doesn’t just stem from wear and tear either. If a shoe is stored in a certain moisture rich area, rote or other unseen elements can break down the composition.

What Should You Do If Your Shoes Are More Than A Year Old?

Don’t throw away that pair yet; all shoes don’t fit that estimate. If there are noticeable problems that fall into these categories, then by all means sit them out or consider a charitable giveaway. If there doesn’t appear to be any issues and you feel comfortable continuing with them, by all means do so.

Shoes have a life all their own. It all depends on how you use them and the materials that go into their creation. No two pairs are alike and you could find that one pair lasted far longer than the other. As with anything in your closet, keep an eye on how it is stored and used. The best defense on beating that year estimate is with proper care at all times. The simplest steps and observation may be all you need to protect that pair of your favorite shoes.

How to Make Shoes Slip Resistant?

February 6, 2020 by Annet

Few things in the human world are quite as frustrating as a pair of slippery shoes. Not only are they frustrating to wear, but they’re dangerous on top of it. If you fell today from slippery shoes, you’d be just one of millions of people who injured themselves because of a couple of pesky slippery soles. Your job today is figure out how to keep that from happening. Here are just a few ways you can grapple with, and defeat, those troublesome slippery shoes and learn how to make shoes slip resistant.

Easy Tips on How to Make Shoes Slip Resistant

Try one of these useful tips to un-slip those slippery shoes.

1. Sandpaper

Get a shoe-sized piece of sandpaper and go to work. Sandpaper is excellent at working off the smoothest parts of those slippery soles. This is all about changing the texture of the soles. Once you get in a good groove with the sandpaper, it’ll be easy to finish this up.

2. Band-aids

Believe it or not, band-aids are a way to guard yourself from slipping when wearing slippery shoes. Adhere the band-aids to the heel of both shoes, and it will form a tight, steady grip for your foot to the floor. It’s not out of the question to use more than just one. For folks engaging in work, this sometime non-conservative tip is a real lifesaver.

3. Try hairspray

Hairspray is good for more than just setting your hair in a permanently beautiful and elegant pose. It’s also very good at creating slip resistant shoes. Turn your shoes over, exposing the soles. Grab your hairspray. Spray liberally. If you let this fix set in for about 60 seconds, you’re going to be amazed at just how slip-resistant your shoes become thereafter. You may have to do this repeatedly; in fact, you’ll have to do it every time you want to benefit from this fix.

4. Non-slip soles

While hairspray is probably the best way to make your shoes slip-resistant in a pinch, it’s definitely not the most pleasant solution because hairspray tends to smell absolutely terrible. For a more practical fix, you can get non-slip sole. These handy items are widely available and adhere to your shoes effortlessly, giving you an instant, and non-offensive, way to slip-proof your shoes.

5. Try masking tape

If you’re looking for something quick and widely available around your house, masking tape is one of the single best ways to make your shoes slip resistant. It attaches easily to the sole of the shoe and really ramps up the traction that you need to keep from falling. While it’s also not going to be a completely permanent solution, it’s one quick way to keep from falling if you absolutely must wear a pair of slippery shoes for a job or social outing. Apply the masking tape to the flattest and widest portion of your sole to get the best results.

Just about every solution on this list is preferable to falling down and breaking one of your bones because of slippery shoes. It’s vital to find a way to make your shoes slip resistant until they naturally wear themselves down into that pleasant “non-slip” state. You can speed things along effortlessly by using the few tips mentioned here. And remember, you can always get creative on your own, too. Most folks have learned some tips and tricks along the way for dealing with slippery soles. You’ll probably find a few extra ways to accomplish a non-slip shoe as you experiment with these ways, too.

How to Break In Running Shoes?

February 6, 2020 by Annet

Getting new running shoes is exciting! You’ve gotten yourself fitted, measured, fully advised and tried on several pairs before settling on the ones that’ll best help you hit the pavement. Let’s take a look at how to break in running shoes.

And now you’re ready to start racking up the miles on them. Or are you?

Before you take those brand new running shoes out on your first five-miler, there are a few things you need to do to break them in. Failure to do so will probably result in unneeded pain and frustration.

Tips on How to Break In Running Shoes

1. Wear Them While Walking Around

Although it’s tempting, don’t start running in your new shoes the moment you get them home. Instead, take a few days to wear them while you’re walking around the office or at home. This helps loosen your shoes up.

Walking around in them also helps form the shoe’s sole to the shape of your foot and allows you to spot any loose stitching or seams that might slow down a later run.

Keep in mind that if your shoes start to feel uncomfortable while you’re walking around, they will only get worse when you start running in them. It’s better to return or exchange them now than after they’ve already been used outside on a run.

2. Slowly Phase in Your New Shoes

After you’ve been wearing them for walking around for several days and everything feels good, it’s time to start running in them.

However, it’s important to slowly phase them into your workout. Don’t head out for a ten-mile run the first time you use them. Instead, go on a shorter run and begin to adjust. Then use them two or three times a week, while using your old shoes the other times you run that week.

Continue to phase them in more over the next several weeks until they are the shoes you wear every time.

3. Make Sure They Fit Perfectly

The right running shoe for you needs to fit perfectly from the second you first put them on. The breaking-in process won’t fix problems with how they feel when you initially tried them on.

The reason your break in new shoes is to help prevent any potential problems with the already-great fitting pair of shoes you bought. It’s not to help overcome the problems of shoes that don’t fit properly.

If your new shoes are causing any kind of pain or are uncomfortable for any reason, take them back to where you bought them and find out what’s causing the problem.

4. Other Things to Look for When Breaking in Running Shoes

It’s important to remember that your feet are directly connected with every other part of your body. If your back is causing you pain while you’re breaking in your new running shoes, it could be an issue that the shoes are causing. Your back might hurt even if your feet feel perfectly fine in the shoes.

The same can be true if you experience knee or ankle pain during this time. Pay close attention to how the rest of your body feels when you walk around in your new shoes compared to how it feels wearing your old ones.

Although you’ll want to get the most use out of your new shoes as soon as you can, remember to never skip the process of breaking them in. Once they’re broken in according to your needs, you’ll be able to enjoy years of comfort with every passing mile.