Drying your hiking boots is an essential part of the maintenance process to keep them in good condition. When your boots get wet, they can lose their waterproofing and insulation, and even start to smell. To make sure they last you on your next hike, it’s important to dry them correctly after every use.
The first step to drying your hiking boots is to remove the laces and any footbeds or insoles. This will allow air to circulate through the interior of the boot, so that it can dry more effectively. You can also stuff newspaper into the boots to help absorb moisture.
Once you’ve removed the laces and insoles, you can use a fan or a blow dryer set on low heat (no more than 104°F) to help speed up the drying process. Make sure you hold the fan or blow dryer at least 12 inches away from your boots so that you don’t damage them with too much heat.
If possible, avoid direct sunlight when drying your hiking boots: The sun’s ultraviolet rays can cause damage to leather and synthetic materials over time. Instead, put them in a warm room with good air circulation.
Don’t forget about the soles: Make sure to prop up the soles of your boots so that they don’t stay in contact with any moisture on the ground while they are drying. You can do this by propping them up on a piece of cardboard or a block of wood.
Condition your leather boots: If you have leather hiking boots, it’s important that you condition them after they have been dried out. This will help restore their waterproofing and keep them looking fresh for longer.
Store your boots correctly: Once they have been dried completely, store your hiking boots in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid storing them in plastic bags as this can cause mold growth if there is any remaining moisture trapped inside.
By following these steps when drying out your hiking boots after every use, you will be able to enjoy long-lasting performance from them for many years to come!
Conclusion
: Drying out your hiking boots correctly is key for keeping them in good condition for longer periods of time. Remove laces and insoles before using a fan or blow dryer set on low heat (no more than 104°F) to help speed up the process. Store them in a cool place away from direct sunlight and don’t forget to condition leather ones afterwards!
