Cycling Shoes Care 101: How to Clean and Maintain Your MTB Shoes

Quick answer

To effectively clean your mountain bike shoes, start by removing the insoles and laces, then brush off dry mud, hand-wash with mild soap, rinse thoroughly, and air-dry away from direct heat. Regular maintenance like this not only keeps them looking fresh but also extends their life.

Mountain biking is tough on gear, and your shoes take the brunt of it. Mud, dust, and water can build up, making them smell and wear out faster. But with the right cleaning routine, you can keep them in top shape for many rides.

This guide covers how to wash cycling shoes, remove stubborn mud, dry them properly, and what to avoid. Whether you're using flat pedal shoes or clipless, these mtb shoe maintenance tips will help you get the most out of your investment.

Before You Start: What You'll Need

Gather a soft-bristled brush (an old toothbrush works well), mild soap or specialized shoe cleaner, a small bucket of lukewarm water, and a towel. Avoid harsh detergents or bleach, as they can damage the materials and adhesives.

Remove the insoles and laces. This gives you better access to the inside and prevents them from getting damaged. If your shoes have a removable insole, take them out and clean them separately with mild soap and water, then air-dry.

• Use a brush with soft bristles to avoid scratching the upper material.

Knock Off Loose Mud and Dirt

Before washing, let the mud dry if possible. Once dry, tap the shoes together or use a stiff brush to knock off the bulk of the dirt. This prevents clogging your sink or leaving mud residue in the wash water.

For crusted mud in the tread, use a small stick or an old screwdriver to gently pick it out. Pay special attention to the cleat area for clipless shoes, as mud here can affect clipping in and out.

• Don't use a high-pressure hose; it can push water and dirt deep into the shoe.

Hand Wash with Mild Soap

Fill a bucket with lukewarm water and add a small amount of mild soap. Dip your brush in the soapy water and scrub the shoes in gentle, circular motions. Focus on high-wear areas like the toes, heels, and around the sole.

Avoid submerging the entire shoe in water. Instead, work section by section, rinsing your brush often. For the inside, wipe with a damp cloth. This preserves the shoe's structure and materials.

• Never use a washing machine; it can damage the shoe's bonding and materials.

Rinse Thoroughly

Use a clean, damp cloth to wipe off any soap residue. Do not hold the shoe under a running tap, as this can force water into the lining. A cloth ensures you control the moisture level.

Repeat the wipe-down with a fresh, dry cloth to absorb excess water. This speeds up drying and prevents water spots from forming on the materials.

• Check for remaining soap in the tread and crevices; leftover soap can irritate skin and attract dirt.

Dry Naturally, Away from Heat

Stuff the shoes with newspaper or a dry towel to help them hold their shape and absorb moisture from the inside. Replace the stuffing once it becomes damp.

Air-dry the shoes at room temperature, away from direct sunlight, radiators, or dryers. High heat can warp the sole, shrink the upper, and weaken adhesives. Drying may take 24-48 hours; be patient.

• For cycling shoe drying, do not stand them on a hot surface; place them on a towel.

Reassemble and Protect

Once completely dry, reinsert the insoles and laces. Consider applying a waterproofing spray designed for the shoe material to help repel future mud and water.

Store your shoes in a cool, dry place. If you ride in wet conditions frequently, consider having a second pair to alternate, giving each pair time to fully dry between rides.

• Wait until the insoles are completely dry before reinserting to prevent odor.

Your Shoe Care Routine in 5 Steps

1. Prepare: Remove insoles and laces. Gather a soft brush, mild soap, and lukewarm water. Checkpoint: Ensure you have everything before you start to avoid interruptions.
2. Dry-Brush Mud: Let mud dry, then knock it off with a stiff brush. Pick out debris from treads. Checkpoint: Don't wash with loose mud still on the shoe.
3. Hand Wash: Scrub with soapy brush, focusing on high-wear areas. Avoid submerging the shoe. Checkpoint: Never machine wash; it can ruin the shoe.
4. Rinse and Blot: Wipe off soap with a damp cloth, then blot with a dry towel to absorb excess water. Checkpoint: No soap residue left in crevices.
5. Dry and Store: Stuff with newspaper, air-dry at room temperature away from heat, then reassemble and store. Checkpoint: Wait until fully dry before storing to prevent odor.

Products to Help Your Maintenance

• O-Strap Adjustable Rubber Strap - 190mm, Black: Ortlieb O-Strap. Soft materials keep items secure and help prevent scratching. Use these straps to secure your shoes to your bag when carrying them to and from the trails, keeping them from rubbing against other gear and scratching the surface.
• Speed Saddle: WTB's best-selling saddle utilizes a shock absorbing, dual compound Soft-Shell base to provide unparalleled comfort at an excellent value. Supportive padding and mid dimensions make for a near fool-proof favorite at a don't-think-about-it-twice price. While not directly related to cleaning, a comfortable saddle like this means you'll be riding more, which means more mud and the need for proper shoe care to keep you out on the trails.

Regular cleaning of your mountain bike shoes not only keeps them looking good but also extends their lifespan. With these simple steps, you can tackle mud and grime confidently, ensuring your shoes stay comfortable and functional for many rides to come.