When you are out climbing, it’s important to make sure that you’re wearing good quality climbing shoes. However, these shoes may be stiff, and they may not have the same level of cushioning as today’s running shoes. This article will offer tips on how to soften up your old shoes so that they are more comfortable for long climbs that require a lot of footwork.
Why do Shoes become Stiff?
There are a few reasons why shoes can become stiff. One common issue is that the materials used to make the shoe (leather, fabric, rubber) can dry out and crack over time. This makes the shoe harder and less pliable, and can cause it to become stiff. In extreme cases, the material may even split open, allowing grit and other debris to get inside the shoe and cause it to become even more difficult to move.
Another reason for a stiff shoe is age. As shoes wear down, the materials start to shrink and contract. This can cause stress in the material near the toe or heel, leading to stiffness. Finally, some shoes are just inherently stiffer than others – some are built to be more supportive, while others are designed for climbing. If you have a stiff shoe that you don’t use for climbing, there’s not much you can do except wait for it to soften up on its own.
How to Keep Climbing Shoes from Stiffening
Climbing shoes can become stiff and uncomfortable over time. There are a few things you can do to keep your climbing shoes from becoming stiff:
-Wash your climbing shoes regularly. Dirt, grit, and other materials found on the rocks can build up on the surface of the shoe, causing it to become stiffer. Washing them off before each climb will help to remove these materials.
-Don’t overheat your climbing shoes. Climbing shoes are designed to be worn in cooler climates, but if they become overly warm, they will start to stiffen. Keep them cool by using a cooling sock or bandanna when you’re not on the rock.
-Repair or replace worn parts as needed. Climbing shoes can wear down quickly if they’re not used properly – make sure to replace worn parts as needed so that your shoes continue to function properly.
How to Soften Old Climbing Shoes
If your old climbing shoes are feeling stiff and uncomfortable, there are a few things you can do to soften them up.
- Warm them up: If the shoes are cold, put them in a warm water bath or in the oven at low heat.
- Use a pumice stone: Rub the pumice stone over the entire surface of the shoe, working it into all of the crevices. Be sure to use a light touch so you don’t damage the shoe.
- Use silicone spray: Apply a light layer of silicone spray to the shoe and let it dry.
Important Tips
When it comes to softening stiff old climbing shoes, there are a few things you can do. Here are some tips:
- Apply heat using a hairdryer or stovetop.
- Fill a pot with boiling water and immersion blower and place the shoes in the hot water for 10 minutes.
- Let the shoes cool, then remove them and use a hairdryer or blowdryer on low heat to soften them up.
