Summer is the perfect time to get out on your bike and ride while soaking in the sun’s heat. However, when unpredictable UK weather strikes, you might end up with stubborn dried-on mud that seems impossible to remove from your boots. With the proper tools and techniques, even the toughest mud can be cleaned off, leaving your riding boots looking as good as new.
Table of content
- How to clean motocross boots
- How to clean road boots
- How to clean adventure boots
- Shop motorcycle boots at Bikers World
How to clean motocross boots
When it comes to Motocross (MX), your boots will likely be impacted by heavy mud and gravel due to the riding conditions that come with MX. This residue can be difficult to clean if left for a long period. To avoid the hard task of scrubbing, cleaning motocross boots immediately after riding is advisable. The best time to do this would be while cleaning your bike. Here’s how:
Materials needed:
Steps:
Remove insoles: It’s important to remove your boot insoles before washing. Water can get trapped between the insole and the boot, leading to unpleasant odours that will be difficult to remove over time.
Rinse off dirt: Spray off any heavy dirt from the boots. A great way to do this is to use a hose or a pressure washer on a low setting. If these are not accessible you can use a jug and pour warm water over the boots, repeating as many times as needed.
Scrub the boots: Take a scrub brush and some warm, soapy water and apply gentle pressure to scrub off the remaining dirt on the boots. For hard-to-reach places, use the old toothbrush to help bend into hard-to-reach areas.
Rinse thoroughly: It’s important to make sure that you rinse the boots thoroughly after scrubbing, as this can leave unwanted streaks. Simply pour warm water over the cleaned boots until the drips are clear.
Air dry: Always air dry your boots to prevent defaults. The heat from hairdryers and direct sunlight can cause the glues used on the boots to peel away. Best practice is to let them dry upside down in a cool, dry area. We recommend using a boot wash stand to make this task easier.
How to clean road boots
Road boots are more casual motorcycle boots that you can wear for day-to-day riding. They come in a variety of different styles and shapes. Some of the most popular styles of road boots are made from leather or combination materials. Although cleaning road boots is straightforward and requires minimal effort, it is important to always refer to manufacturing guidelines for specific guidance for materials such as leather.
Materials needed:
Steps:
Prepare cloth: Take a microfibre cloth and submerge it into warm water ensuring to wring out the excess water to avoid unnecessary dripping.
Wipe down boots: Wipe down the outside of the boots to remove any visible dirt. If the dirt is old and dried on you can drape the wet cloth over the boots and leave for 15-20 minutes to help soften the mud before wiping away.
Avoid heavy degreasers: It is vital to avoid using strong degreasers when cleaning road boots as these can cause the boots to degrade or become slippery if not cleaned off completely.
Use a leather cleaner: Leather cleaners and conditioners specifically designed for motorcycle boots are a great way to treat the leather, helping to keep it soft and shiny for a longer.
How to clean adventure boots
Adventure boots are a cross between off-road and road boots. They are perfect for almost all riding conditions due to their durable and comfortable build. Cleaning your adventure boots is similar to cleaning your road boots, with some extra steps for thorough cleaning.
Materials needed:
Steps:
Spray cleaning solution: Use a spray bottle filled with water and mild soap mix to clean the boots. A spray bottle will allow you to use just enough water and soap without soaking your boots too much.
Wipe with cloth: Use a damp microfibre cloth with the soap spray to remove excess dirt.
Apply leather cleaner: Use a leather cleaner and moisturiser after cleaning to protect your boots’ finish.
Anti-bacterial spray: For the inside of the boots, use an anti-bacterial spray to prevent odours or allow them to air dry properly after long rides.
Inspect boots: Once your boots are cleaned, inspect all clips, straps, laces, and Velcro for any damage. Make sure removable toe sliders, if present, are tightened.
By understanding what your boots are made of and knowing which products are best to use, you can extend the life of your motorcycle boots by years. It is important to always refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines regarding specific care instructions and recommendations.
Shop motorcycle boots at Bikers World
Regularly maintaining your motorcycle boots is the best way to ensure they remain in top condition. However, even the most cared-for boots can sometimes be past the point of no return, and if your boots are no longer coming up nice and clean, it might be time to invest in a new pair. At Bikers World Store we have a huge selection of motorbike boots perfect for every rider.
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