HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR WALKING SHOES IN WINTER

Winter can be extra rough on your walking shoes, with mud, rain and frost all taking a toll on everything from the innersoles to laces. Whether you rely on the Merrell Moab to get you through the tough trails, or the Agility Peak for your outdoor adventures, taking a little extra time to care for your walking shoes in the winter will keep them performing well and looking great throughout those chilly and wet times of the year. With a few simple habits, you can extend the life of your Merrell walking shoes and trail running shoes - keeping your feet dry and supported all season long.

Cleaning your walking shoes after each outing is one of the most important steps in winter care. A little dirt may not look like a big deal, but over time it can break down fabric, wear down stitching, and even harm the shoes waterproof materials. As soon as you get home, let any mud dry naturally, then gently brush it off with a soft brush. If some spots remain, use a damp cloth and a mild soap solution to wipe them away. Avoid soaking your shoes or running them under a tap as too much moisture can weaken glues and reduce the lifespan of your footwear. For the Merrell Moab 3 GTX, which features a GORE-TEX waterproof lining, it’s important not to oversaturate the outer materials, as it can affect breathability over.

Even waterproof footwear will benefit from reproofing every now and then, and a fresh layer of a waterproofing spray every few weeks will help seal the outer fabric and keep out moisture. Styles like the Merrell Morphlite, which use lightweight engineered mesh uppers, can also be treated with a spray-on waterproofer to protect against the elements. Make sure your shoes are clean and fully dry before applying any shoe care products like waterproofers. Hold the spray about 15 centimetres away and apply it evenly across the entire surface, paying special attention to seams and stitching, which are often the first places moisture sneaks in.

Taking the time to dry your shoes properly after wet walks is another vital part of winter shoe care. Resist the urge to put your shoes next to dry your shoes in the sun or next to a heater as direct heat can cause materials to warp or crack. Instead, remove the insoles and laces to let air to flow freely inside the shoe. An old trick is to stuff your walking shoes with newspaper to absorb excess moisture and speed up drying. Leave your shoes in a well-ventilated area at room temperature until they are fully dry inside and out. This not only keeps the shape but also prevents the bad odours.

Storing your walking shoes plays a big part in keeping your walking shoes in good condition. During winter, it’s a good idea to rotate your walking shoes depending on weather and terrain. For example, you might wear the Merrell Agility Peak for slippery trails and switch to the Morphlite when the trails are clear. When you’re not using a pair, store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and damp places.

It’s a smart idea to rotate between at least two pairs of walking shoes if you’re active most days. Giving each pair a day or so to fully dry and air out between uses will increase their lifespan.

Caring for walking shoes in winter doesn’t have to be a slog, but it does require a little attention. By cleaning them regularly, reapplying waterproof products, drying properly, and storing them with care, you can keep your footwear ready for every adventure, no matter how wet they get.

Check out our range of men’s hiking shoes and women’s casual shoes online, or head into your nearest Merrell store and find your perfect fit.