Sneaker SOS: Revive Your Kicks After Rainy Adventures

Rainy days and unexpected puddles can leave your favorite shoes soaked and vulnerable. With Hurricane Idalia becoming a Category 4, it’s time to take precautions. But fear not! We’re here to guide you through the essential steps to take when your beloved footwear has been drenched.

Hurricane Idalia

Proper care after getting your shoes wet can prolong their life and keep them looking great. That’s what we’re all about here at Sole Protector. Let’s dive into the post-rain shoe care routine:

Step 1: Act Quickly

The faster you deal with wet shoes, the better. Remove them as soon as you’re indoors to prevent water from soaking deeper into the material.

Step 2: Remove Excess Moisture

Give your shoes a gentle shake to remove any excess water. Avoid wringing them out, as this can distort the shape and damage the material. We never want unnecessary creases.

Step 3: Stuff and Dry

Place crumpled newspaper or absorbent cloths inside your shoes to help soak up moisture from the inside. Though we know you love using it, try avoiding using direct heat sources like our SP Fire Stick, as they can cause the materials to warp or crack. Instead, let your shoes air dry naturally in a well-ventilated area.

Drying wet shoes with newspaper

Step 4: Clean Gently

Once your shoes are dry, use our SP Sneaker brush to gently brush off any dirt or debris that might have stuck to them during the wet ordeal. Use a soft brush to avoid damaging the material and once fully dry, install a Sole Protector Plus+ to prevent any more dirt getting on your soles.

SP Sneaker Brush

Step 5: Recondition Leather

If your wet shoes are made of leather, they might have lost some of their natural oils. Use a leather conditioner to restore moisture and maintain the material’s suppleness. Apply a small amount and buff it in using a clean, soft cloth.

Step 6: Deodorize

Wet shoes can develop unpleasant odors. Use a specialized shoe deodorizer like SP Fresh to get rid of that strong, wet smell. Leave them in overnight and then tap out the excess before wearing your shoes again.

SP Fresh

Step 7: Avoid Sunlight and Heat

While it’s tempting to speed up the drying process, avoid exposing your shoes to direct sunlight or direct heat sources. Both can cause the materials to become brittle or fade over time.

Step 8: Prevent Future Mishaps

Consider using waterproofing sprays or products designed to create a barrier against moisture. Regularly applying these products can help prevent future water damage and extend the lifespan of your shoes. Of course the weather can be unpredictable but taking safety precautions doesn’t hurt.

Sneaker Spray

Step 9: Rotate Your Shoes

Though we know everyone has a favorite pair, frequent exposure to wet conditions can wear your shoes out faster. Consider rotating between multiple pairs of shoes, allowing each pair to fully dry out between wears.

Step 10: Be Prepared

Keep a spare pair of shoes or a plastic bag in your bag or car to switch into during unexpected rain showers. This can help you avoid having to wear wet shoes for an extended period. Some may call this extra, but for a sneaker head, this is a lifesaver.

Wet shoes don’t have to mean the end of their life or the loss of your favorite kicks. By following these simple steps, you can effectively maintain your shoes and keep them looking and feeling great after a rainy day. Remember, prompt action and gentle care are key to preserving the integrity of your footwear. Until next time, keep those shoes dry and your steps confident!