If well looked after, a good pair of walking boots can keep you comfortable and safe on your feet for many years.  Read on to learn how. 

Scrub clean straight after your walk  

Cleaning your boots straight after a walk may not be the most exciting way to end your walk, but you'll thank yourself later. 

To clean your boots, rinse with warm water and use a semi-stiff brush to remove any stubborn mud and grit.  

Be gentle with the delicate surfaces of the boot so you don't soften your leather uppers too much - this helps avoid shape loss.  

Treat with a waterproofer  

Using a waterproofer will help to keep your feet dry on your walks.  

Dry carefully (not by the fire or radiator) 

Avoid the temptation to dry your boots by the fire or radiator. This can damage your boots and affect their performance. Much better to let them dry in a well-ventilated warm room or outdoors.

Top tip: Newspaper is perfect for absorbing moisture from wet walking boots. Replace it every couple of hours until the paper is dry. Or you can buy reusable moisture-absorbing balls.  

Check for wear and tear 

Keep an eye out for wear and tear, especially on the soles of your boots. If you notice signs of wear and you’re losing grip, you may want to replace the sole. You may need a new pair of boots if the upper is also damaged.