Care and Maintenance of Hiking Boots

Serious hikers spend a great deal of time selecting the perfect hiking boot. Unfortunately, many fail to fully consider the ways in which to properly care for hiking boots. A few basic tips regarding the care and maintenance of hiking boots ensures that the perfect pair of hiking boots retains its perfection for the longest time possible.

New boots are easy to read

When hiking boots are first purchased, they are generally prepared in such a way that requires little treatment. Most high-quality boots include a set of instructions regarding ways in which to care for the boots, but few people actually take the time to read them. While it might not seem important at the time, most of the advice needed to care for boots is contained in these instructions. The one treatment new boots might require is applying conditioner to flex points that are not bending properly.

Cleanliness saves many boots

Keeping boots clean is about more than making a fashion statement. Every step that is taken requires a flexing motion that allows dust and grit to embed themselves within the boot. As these particles are embedded, they act as sandpaper and dry out the leather. Leather that is dry is prone to cracking, and the life of the boots is eventually shortened.

Condition and waterproof boots

The final actions that extend the life of a boot are conditioning and waterproofing. Conditioning ensures that the leather remains supple. Waterproofing, as the name implies, prevents the leather from holding in moisture that would otherwise dry out the boot or lead to warping.

Caring for boots takes a relatively small amount of time and effort. With these actions, however, the life of a boot is greatly extended.