Trainers or MTB shoes - no matter which model you wear, you're bound to get them dirty at some point. But how do you get your favourite shoes properly clean again without damaging them? And what should you look out for during regular care to keep them looking good and functioning for a long time? We talk to Product Manager Martin Meinhardt from First Degree about exactly that. He gives us practical tips on cleaning, explains typical care mistakes and shows us how to get worn-out shoes back into shape.
Interview with Maximilian Meinhardt, Product Manager First Degree
BIKE: Maximilian, what do I do with my expensive MTB shoes when they're smelly and dirty? Is the washing machine an option?
Maximilian Meinhardt: Sure, you can do that. Not too often, but a wash now and again won't do the shoe any harm. I recommend a laundry bag - it's best to remove the laces and put the insoles in separately. Choose the gentlest possible wash cycle at a maximum of 30 degrees. Caution: Don't use too much washing powder, as this can damage the bonding.
And my washing machine stays intact? After all, MTB shoes often have very stiff soles.
My washing machine has always survived this so far - I've done it several times. So that shouldn't be a problem. As I mentioned, make sure you use a gentle wash cycle with few revolutions.
An MTB shoe is more prone to sweat than a normal shoe. Do you take this into account in the design?
Sure, we try to ventilate the shoe as well as possible. The odour is caused by bacteria. A good trick is to put the shoes in a plastic bag and put them in the freezer for a few days. This kills the bacteria - and the odour disappears. If it's just the odour, I would try this first before using the washing machine.
What do you think of waterproofing sprays?
I take a critical view of them - because of the PFAS contamination. In addition, many sprays impair the breathability of the shoe, which in turn can lead to increased sweating.
Sometimes the sole comes loose, even though the shoe is otherwise still in top condition. What to do?
If it is a warranty case, you should of course take advantage of it. Most manufacturers offer a two-year guarantee.
And if there is no longer a guarantee?
Then superglue will help. Clean thoroughly beforehand, apply glue and press on firmly. The shoe will be slightly stiffer in the repaired area, but the problem is solved for now.
What do you recommend to keep your shoes clean for as long as possible?
Dry brushing is probably the gentlest method. Alternatively, you can spray them down with a high-pressure cleaner during a bike wash (don't get too close), then place them in the sun and stuff them with newspaper.
You also make white bike shoes because they're trendy at the moment. When will the first shoe with a white guarantee be available?
Haha, our shoes are already coated so that they are easy to clean and stay white for as long as possible. However, we cannot give a "the-shoe-stays-white-forever" guarantee.
The heel area often rubs when slipping in and out - everyone knows this from skate shoes. Why does this still happen?
We already use reinforced material at these points. Unfortunately, it can never be completely prevented - every material gives way at some point. I know this from my leisure skate shoes: I used duct tape there - it still holds up today.
Which warranty claims do you make most frequently?
We generally have few warranty claims. If a complaint is made, it's usually about the sole - that's where the most stress is placed when biking.
Laurin Lehner
Editor
