Maximizing the Lifespan of Your Climbing Shoes: Maintenance Tips Every Climber Should Know

Climbing shoes are the workhorses of any climber’s gear collection. Whether you’re tackling tough routes indoors or crushing problems outdoors, your shoes take a beating every session. While climbing shoes can be pricey, with proper care and maintenance, you can extend their lifespan and save money in the long run. Here’s how to keep your climbing shoes in excellent condition for as long as possible.

Clean Your Shoes Regularly

Dirt, chalk, and sweat can degrade climbing shoes over time. After every session, wipe down your shoes with a damp cloth to remove grime. For a deeper clean, hand wash your shoes with lukewarm water and mild soap. Avoid machine washing as it can damage the materials and compromise the fit.

Dry Them Properly

Never leave your climbing shoes in a hot car or under direct sunlight to dry. Heat can warp the rubber and weaken the glue. Instead, air-dry them at room temperature. Stuffing the shoes with newspaper can help absorb excess moisture and maintain their shape.

Rotate Between Pairs

If you climb frequently, consider investing in an extra pair of climbing shoes. Rotating between pairs reduces wear and tear on a single pair and gives them time to air out between sessions, reducing odor and material fatigue.

Find Your Next Pair: Explore Boulder Planet Showroom’s range of climbing shoes, perfect for all styles and skill levels.

Patch Small Holes Early

Small holes in the toe box or rand can quickly grow if left unattended. Use shoe repair kits or adhesive patches to fix minor damage before it gets worse. A stitch in time saves nine—especially with climbing shoes.

Need Help? Our team at Boulder Planet Showroom can guide you on the best repair solutions.

Resole Your Shoes

When the rubber on the sole starts to thin but the upper is still intact, it’s time for a resole. Resoling your shoes is much cheaper than buying a new pair and can restore their performance. In Singapore, there are providers around the island that provide climbing shoe resoling services.

Store Them Correctly

Store your shoes in a cool, dry place. Avoid cramming them into your gym bag or leaving them in damp areas, as this can lead to odors, mold, and material degradation. A breathable shoe bag is a great option for storage.

With its unique mesh design and large capacity, the BP Shoe Bag allows you to transport your shoes and chalk bags/buckets easily, and air your shoes after a challenging climb.

Don’t Walk Around in Them

Climbing shoes are designed for precision on rock or gym holds, not for walking on rough surfaces. Avoid wearing them while walking around to prevent unnecessary wear on the rubber. Use slip-ons or sandals for breaks between climbs.

Choose the Right Shoe for the Right Climb

Wearing an aggressive shoe for all-day slab climbing or using soft shoes for overhangs can cause unnecessary wear. Match your shoes to the climbing style and terrain to maximize their performance and longevity.

Choose wisely: Aggressive shoes excel on overhangs, while soft shoes shine on slabs. The right fit for the right climb!

Final Thoughts

Taking care of your climbing shoes doesn’t have to be a chore. By following these simple tips, you can keep your shoes in top condition, improve their performance, and save yourself the cost of frequent replacements.

Looking for high-quality climbing gear or expert advice? Visit Boulder Planet Showroom today and let us help you gear up for success!