Hiking boots and shoes are expensive items which are extensively used on rugged terrains. Due to their use on harsh surfaces, they suffer from wear and tear which curtails their life. Depending on their construction and material, shoes and boots have varied durability. EVA midsole can be expected to last less than 500 miles, while PU ones can be worn for 1,000 to 2,000 miles. However, people who invest in them heavily expect their boots to last longer.

Expectations and reality related with hiking shoes are quite different, which can lead to disappointment. Feeling gloomy already? Well don’t be, there is still hope for the user who can make some effort and pay attention to their shoes. With some basic repairs and tips, you can prolong the lifespan of your boots and make them last for a long period.

1. Break in your New Hiking Boots

It is not a good idea to wear your boots straightaway on a hike. You need to first warm up to your boots by wearing them at your home. Make sure that you wear the new shoes with the same socks that you will be wearing on your hikes. Once your feet are acclimatized to the boots, you will feel comfortable while hiking and not bump against rocks and pebbles lying on the ground. Walking and running while in full control of the body will prevent accidental damage to your feet and boots.

2. Taking Preventive Care

Whenever you have wetted your shoes in the wild, it is best to lay them upside down to remove the water soaked by them. Also, remove the insoles at night time for proper drying.

Every year when the surface of the boot cracks up, treat it with silicone-based or water-based treatment to enhance its durability. You can also use a leather conditioner to prevent your hiking boots from drying out. Avoid storing your shoes in humid conditions as excess moisture in the air can cause problems like mildew growth.

3. Take Care of the Damage on the Boots

You should know how to identify and treat the signs of damage on your boots. It is very easy for the laces on the boots to rupture after prolonged usage, so always keep a spare pair of laces in your backpack while you are on a hike. If your boots are missing eyelets, send them to a cobbler or back to the company where you bought them from. Boots are hardly ever completely destroyed, but when you see the cushioning on the boots wearing off, it is a sign that you need to buy a new pair.

Important Tip: Never use fire for drying your shoes as the heat can melt or shrink the leather and synthetics.

4. Clean the Shoes

Breathable comfort is essential for a pleasurable hiking experience. Dirt and grime accumulated on shoes can hinder breathability which may make them quite uncomfortable to wear. Use a stiff-bristled brush after each trip to remove the dirt so that your shoes are in prime condition and ready for the elements. You can also make a habit of cleaning your shoes rigorously with a brush and mild detergent every year to keep them looking shiny as new. While cleaning scrub the inside, outside, and let the shoes dry in the shade. Cleaning the insole is a great way to maintain the odorless functionality of your hiking boots.

5. Fixing a Delaminated Boot Sole

In case you have a delaminated sole, you need to address the issue immediately. Remove the debris stuck between the upper and sole. Wipe down both with an alcohol prep pad found in a medical kit. Now, squeeze the upper and sole together and put some weight on it (you can use a rock or a completely filled water bottle). Following this procedure will help you fix the delaminated boot sole.