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How to Wash & Deodorize Weightlifting Shoes
October 22, 2022
-
By
Sophia Grant
Safety is the number one priority when it comes to weightlifting. That’s why proper equipment is so important.
For starters, you’ll want to invest in a pair of weightlifting gloves. They’ll prevent blisters and calluses from forming on your hand and will provide you with better grip when you’re holding onto the bar.
Knee sleeves are also highly recommended. They’ll provide compression, which will reduce pain and swelling in the joints following a workout.
The most important thing of all, however, is to have a good pair of weightlifting shoes.
Believe it or not but they can make a big difference when it comes to lifting weights. We’ll be talking more about them below.
Benefits of Wearing Weightlifting Shoes
Weightlifting shoes are different from regular shoes in that they come with a lifted heel that increases the range of movement in your ankles. This allows you to squat deeper, which will improve your overall position.
That’s not all, they’ll also boost your performance by providing you with a solid and stable surface.
How to Pick a Pair of Lifters
There are a few things that you want to consider when choosing weightlifting shoes. For one thing, you want to consider the heel height.
How can you tell whether it’s right for you? Try them on, you should feel as if you’re leaning slightly forward. Aside from that, you also want to consider the shoe material, style, and durability.
Popular Brands That Make Lifting Shoes
Reebok
Reebok is a global brand that specializes in footwear and apparel. Founded in 1958, the company was one of the first to utilize track spikes in shoes.
After many years of operation, they were acquired by Adidas in 2005. Nowadays, they have products that are geared towards various sports such as running, cross-fit, yoga, and mixed martial arts.
Adidas
Adidas is one of the most well-known sports brands in the world. Founded by Adolf Dassler, the company is known for their iconic logo, which consists of three slanted stripes. Aside from weightlifting shoes, they also sell footwear for hockey, running, training, basketball, and football.
Nike
Nike is the largest manufacturer of athletic shoes in the world. Aside from footwear, they also sell apparel, accessories, and sports equipment.
With that said, they’re probably best known for their footwear. As with other brands, they have certain products that are designed for specific sports (weightlifting included). For instance, they have ones that are meant for baseball, training, running, skateboarding, volleyball, and golf.
Nordic Lifting
Nordic Lifting specializes in weightlifting gear. Based in Sweden, the brand sells a variety of products for lifters including wraps, compression gear, accessories, and more.
Unlike the other brands that we’ve mentioned, their products are only available online; they do not have a brick-and-mortar store.
Inov-8
Inov-8 is a leading manufacturer of all-terrain footwear, apparel, and sports equipment. Founded in 2003, the brand has been offering high-quality, innovative products for over two decades.
In addition to weightlifting shoes, they also have products that are designed for running, cross-fit, training, hiking, and more.
How to Wash Weightlifting Shoes
Ideally, you want to clean your shoes every few weeks to keep them in tip top condition.
Putting Your Weightlifting Shoes in the Washer
Some weightlifting shoes are machine washable. When in doubt, check the care tag label on the inside – it’ll give you all the information you need on how to wash them.
Step 1: Remove the Laces
Start by removing the laces. While you can keep them on, it’s best to take them off and wash them separately in a small mesh bag – that will prevent them from getting tangled.
If you don’t have a wash bag, you stuff them inside a pillowcase.
Step 2: Remove Excess Debris
Remove as much debris as possible from the surface with a soft bristle brush. If necessary, you can clap them together a few times – that will help to remove some of the dirt.
Step 3: Put Them in the Washer
Place the lifting shoes in a large laundry bag and put them in the washer. Do not wash them by themselves; you want to balance the load by adding a few towels.
Step 4: Add Detergent
Add a scoop of ACTIVE Detergent powder and start a cold, gentle cycle.
Step 5: Let Them Air Dry
After washing, remove the shoes from the washing machine and let them air dry at room temperature. If necessary, you can put newspaper inside the shoes – that will help speed up the drying process.
Supply:
- ACTIVE Detergent
- Laundry bag
- Soft bristle brush
- A few towels
- Newspaper (optional)
Depending on your shoes, you might be able to take out the inner soles and wash them separately.
ACTIVE Laundry Detergent
Remove odors and extend the life of your weightlifting shoes with our enzymatic detergent.
Washing Your Lifting Shoes by Hand
You can also wash your lifting shoes by hand; you just need a bit of water and detergent.
Supplies:
- ACTIVE Detergent
- Soft bristle brush
- Damp cloth
Step 1:
Create a cleaning solution for your shoes by mixing a small amount of ACTIVE Detergent powder with warm water.
Step 2:
Use a soft bristle brush (e.g. old toothbrush) to apply the solution onto the surface of your shoes. Pay extra attention to the grooves as that’s where most of the dirt gets embedded.
Avoid rubbing motions as that can damage the shoe material.
Step 3:
Wipe the surface clean with a damp cloth, then let the shoes air dry in a well-ventilated space.
Do not put them in the dryer – the heat will melt the glue.
Best Way to Deodorize Smelly Shoes
Shoe odor can be an issue, especially if you don’t wear socks. Fortunately, you can tackle tough odors easily – you just need the right tools and products.
Eliminating Shoes Smell With Baking Soda
Baking soda is great in that it’ll help neutralize your stinky shoes. And most of us probably already have some at home, which makes things easier.
Supplies:
- Baking soda
- Handheld vacuum (optional)
Step 1:
Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda (about a tablespoon’s worth). into each shoe.
Step 2:
Let the baking soda sit in the shoes over – that will allow it to eliminate any smells caused by odor-causing agents.
Step 3:
Remove the baking soda in the morning. If necessary, you can use a handheld vacuum to help with the process.
For the best results, make sure there is an even layer of powder on the footbed.
Deodorize Shoes With White Vinegar
White vinegar has acidic properties, which allows it to eliminate odor-causing agents.
Supplies:
- White vinegar
- Microfiber cloth
- Newspaper (optional)
Step 1:
Dampen a cloth with white vinegar and use it to swab the inside of each shoe.
Do not use balsamic or apple cider vinegar and these variations can stain the fabric.
Step 2:
Allow the shoes to dry completely before wearing them again.
If necessary, you can stuff the shoes with crumpled newspaper – they will help get rid of the excess moisture so that they will dry more quickly.
You can also fill a spray bottle with a vinegar solution and apply them to your lifting and running shoes that way.
Putting the Shoes In the Freezer
Believe it or not but you can also deodorize your lifting shoes by putting them in the freezer. The cold temperature will kill any odor-causing bacteria that’s present.
Supplies:
- Large plastic bag
Step 1:
Place your weightlifting shoes in a large freezer-safe plastic bag.
Step 2:
Put the shoes in the freezer and leave them in there overnight. Take them out in the morning and let them thaw naturally.
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Sophia Grant
Sophia Grant brings her extensive knowledge of laundry and clothing care to the masses with her intensive cleaning guides. Her thorough understanding of fabrics, detergents, and washing techniques helps readers master the art of maintaining their wardrobe. Sophia's advice ensures that anyone can achieve professional-level results at home, keeping their garments looking pristine and lasting longer.
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