Winter Boot Maintenance
By: Cody Fongemie
Hunting Season is over. Now is the perfect time to rest, recuperate, and, most importantly, prepare for the next season. Part of that preparation is giving your gear a deep dive, starting with the most crucial piece-your boots. Finding a pair I truly loved took me a while, so I understand the importance of keeping them in top condition. Follow these steps to clean and maintain your boots during the off-season, ensuring they’re ready for your next adventure.
Start with a Good Cleaning. After a season of heavy use, your boots can accumulate dirt, mud, and grit, potentially causing damage over time. But fear not; you have the power to clean them effectively. Here’s how:
Remove the laces and insoles. This will make accessing all areas of the boot easier and prevent debris from hiding in crevices.
Brush off loose dirt. Use a soft-bristled brush to remove dirt and debris from the surface and treads.
Wash with water and mild soap. Use warm water and a non-detergent soap to gently scrub away stubborn grime. Avoid soaking your boots, as excess moisture can harm certain materials.
Rinse thoroughly. Ensure no soap residue remains, which can dry out the materials over time.
Dry Them Properly. Proper drying is crucial to prevent mold, mildew, or material damage:
- Stuff your boots with newspaper or paper towels to absorb moisture and help maintain their shape.
- Avoid direct heat sources like heaters or campfires, which can crack leather or warp synthetic materials. Let them air dry in a cool, ventilated space.
Condition and Waterproof
- Leather boots: Apply a leather conditioner to keep the material supple and prevent cracking.
- All boots: To restore your boot’s water-resistant properties, use a waterproofing spray or treatment appropriate for its material.
Store Them Safely. Store your boots in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures. Stuff them with paper to help retain their shape, and avoid tightly sealing them in plastic, which can trap moisture.
Inspect and Repair…. If need be, toss. Now, you would think this phase would come before you start cleaning I personally like to clean the boot and do all the stuff before it so I can get a good idea of what its actual condition is if I notice the soul is trying to fall apart or something wrong maybe an eyelets popping out I do what I can to repair it and if it can’t be repaired it might unfortunately be time to toss it out. the good news is you have plenty of time to order a new pair of boots and start prepping them for the season.
Take care of your feet so you can hunt!
It’s the little stuff like this that’s going to keep you in the field longer. Foot care is Paramount, especially if you’re heading into the foothills of the Rockies to chase after a Muley. You’ll need to put some miles on, and if your boots aren’t in tip-top shape, you’re setting yourself up for failure. So take the time to clean your shoes and do the necessary maintenance. ward? A comfortable, pain-free adventure when you head out to the mountain this fall.
Good Luck
Good luck this winter and remember to send any success pictures or stories from the field to [email protected]. You could be featured on our website or in our magazine. If this article or any of our articles have helped you become a better hunter or conservation steward, become a member of the Mule Deer Foundation or Blacktail Deer Foundation for only $35 dollars a year. Click here to join: https://muledeer.org/product-category/membership/
Cody Fongemie @Fongeinthefield
Born and raised in New England, Cody developed a deep appreciation for American history and adventure from a young age. His love for the outdoors led him to become both an avid outdoorsman and a dedicated writer on related topics. After studying in South Carolina, he enlisted in the Air Force, where he is currently serving. Outside of his military duties, Cody enjoys hunting, fly fishing, and sharing his experiences through his writing. He also works to connect the military community with the outdoors through non-profit initiatives.
