Cameron Allen
Table of Contents
When it comes to maintaining longevity in your boxing career, practicing good hygiene should be a priority. When it comes to your gym gear, your shoes oftentimes are the culprit of the foul odors. When you choose to not take the right precautions you end up with fungal infections like athlete’s foot or some other kind of toenail fungus. In boxing, your shoes take the most beating, but taking care of them is simple and to the point.
Read below to learn all about how to clean your boxing shoes and things to look out for to avoid any damage.
How to Clean Boxing Shoes
Cleaning your boxing shoes is an easy process and it has many benefits.
When your shoes are cleaned regularly, it helps to maintain their quality and durability. Boxing shoes endure a lot of wear and tear during intense training sessions and fights. Cleaning them helps to remove dirt, sweat, and bacteria that can accumulate over time.
Cleaning your boxing boots is also an easy process, listed below is an efficient way of hand-washing them that can also be used for boxing gloves if need be.
- Remove any loose dirt or debris by gently hitting the shoes together
- Use a soft brush to scrub away any stubborn dirt or stains
- Mix a mild detergent with warm water and use a clean cloth to gently clean the surface of the shoes
- Rinse off the excess soap with water
- Stuff the shoes with newspaper or paper towels to help them retain their shape
- Let them air dry in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight
Removes Excess Dirt & Debris
Cleaning your boxing shoes holds huge importance as it effectively eliminates excess dirt and debris. During training or matches, your shoes can accumulate dirt from the gym floor or the ring.
Regular cleaning not only ensures the cleanliness of your shoes but also helps maintain their optimal performance. By removing any accumulated dirt and debris, you prevent any potential damage to the shoes, ensuring that they continue to provide the necessary grip and protection during your training and matches.
Prepare Cleaning Solution
Preparing a cleaning solution is easy. Start by grabbing a spray bottle or small bucket and fill it halfway with water. Add a bit of mild soap/detergent or shoe cleaner if you have some. Mix it well and there you have it, a good cleaning solution that you can use for various tasks around the house, and cleaning your suede boxing boots and other boxing equipment.
Pro Tip: Spot Test to make sure your cleaning solution does not cause discoloration
Discoloration can be a major problem on suede and leather boxing boots, the reason for this is that not all soaps and detergents are suitable for boxing gloves or shoes.
- Choose a small area of your like the inner lining or a less visible part
- Apply a small amount of the solution to that area
- Gently rub the solution onto the area using a soft cloth
- Let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe with a damp cloth
- Check the spot for any discoloration
If you do not see any discoloration, you are good to go, otherwise, try a different solution or consult with the shoe manufacturer.
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Clean off Exterior
Start by gently removing any dirt or debris from the surface using a soft brush or damp cloth. On visible stains and marks, you can use a mild detergent or shoe cleaner to easily spot-clean them. Remember to be gentle, use a soft cloth or brush, and avoid scrubbing too vigorously to prevent any wear and tear.
Next, rinse off any soap residue with clean water and then let your shoes air dry. Taking these steps will help keep your shoes, fresh and ready for your next training session.
Clean the Soles
Cleaning the soles of your boxing boots is important for maintaining good traction in the ring. Start by giving the soles a good brush or wipe with a soft cloth to remove any visible loose dirt or debris.
If you see any stubborn marks, mix some warm water with a mild detergent and use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub those areas across the soles. In the end, rinse off all the soapy residue with clean water and wipe them dry with a clean towel.
Wipe Down Dry
Wiping down is a great method for drying your boxing boots after washing them. Take a clean towel or cloth and gently wipe down the exterior and interior of the shoes to remove any excess moisture or soap residue.
Make sure to pay special attention to the areas where water may have accumulated, such as the tongue or insole. Make sure to dry them thoroughly to prevent any bad odors or mold growth. After wiping them down, place them in a well-ventilated area to air dry completely.
Air Dry Naturally
Air drying your boxing boots after washing them is the best way to ensure they dry properly without causing any damage. Once you’ve finished washing them, give them a gentle squeeze, and wipe them dry to remove any excess water. Then, in a well-ventilated area, place your shoes in a spot where they can get plenty of fresh air.
Avoid placing your boxing gear in direct sunlight or heat sources like hair dryers as they can potentially warp, damage, or shrink the materials.
Optional: Deodorize & Condition
To condition and deodorize your boxing gear, there are a few different things you can do, for starters, you can occasionally use baking soda to keep them fresh. You can also regularly use an antiseptic spray before and after using your boxing equipment.
Taking care of your boxing gear will allow you to increase their longevity in the gym, and also help you stay safe from any skin infections like ringworm.