Mountain bike shoes are a crucial piece of gear for any off-road rider. They provide the necessary grip and stability to tackle rough terrain, as well as protection and support for your feet. When not in use, it’s essential to store your MTB shoes properly to ensure they remain in good condition and provide optimal performance on the trail. In this article, we’ll discuss how to store your mountain bike shoes.
Clean Your Shoes
Before storing your mountain bike shoes, it’s essential to clean them thoroughly. Use a soft-bristled brush or a damp cloth to remove any dirt, mud, or other debris from the shoes’ uppers and soles. This will help prevent any buildup or damage to the shoes’ materials while they’re in storage. Be sure to allow the shoes to dry completely before storing them.
Stuff with Newspaper or a Shoe Tree
To help your mountain bike shoes maintain their shape while in storage, consider stuffing them with newspaper or a shoe tree. This will help prevent any creases or wrinkles from forming in the shoes’ materials, which can cause discomfort or damage when you wear them again. Avoid stuffing the shoes with anything that might retain moisture, such as towels or fabric, as this can promote the growth of mold and mildew.
Keep Them in a Cool, Dry Place
When storing your mountain bike shoes, it’s important to keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Exposure to heat and sunlight can cause the shoes’ materials to fade or discolor over time, as well as promote the growth of bacteria and mold. Consider storing your shoes in a closet, cupboard, or other enclosed space that’s dry and well-ventilated.
Avoid Storing Them in Damp or Humid Areas
Humidity and moisture can be your mountain bike shoes’ worst enemies. They can cause the shoes’ materials to warp, crack, or grow mold and bacteria, which can affect their performance and lifespan. Avoid storing your shoes in damp or humid areas, such as basements, garages, or areas prone to flooding. If you live in a humid climate, consider using a dehumidifier to keep the air dry.
Use Shoe Bags
If you have multiple pairs of mountain bike shoes or need to transport them, consider using shoe bags to keep them organized and protected. Shoe bags can help prevent dirt, dust, and other debris from accumulating on the shoes, as well as protect them from scratches and other damage. Look for shoe bags made of breathable materials to prevent moisture buildup.
Consider Using Odor-Absorbing Products
Mountain bike shoes can develop an unpleasant odor over time, especially if you wear them frequently or in hot and humid conditions. Consider using odor-absorbing products, such as activated charcoal, baking soda, or cedar chips, to help eliminate any unpleasant odors. Place the product inside the shoe or inside a shoe bag to absorb any odors and keep your shoes smelling fresh.
Keep Them Away from Pests
Pests, such as mice, rats, and insects, can be attracted to the materials in your mountain bike shoes. They can chew through the shoes’ materials, leave droppings, and cause damage to the shoes. To keep pests away from your shoes, store them in airtight containers or plastic bags. Consider using pest repellent products, such as mothballs or cedar blocks, to help keep pests away.
Stay Organized
If you have multiple pairs of mountain bike shoes or other gear, it’s important to stay organized when storing them. Consider using a shoe rack or other storage solution to keep your shoes in order and easy to access. Label your shoe bags or storage containers to keep track of which shoes are which and make it easy to find what you need when you need it.
Conclusion
Storing your mountain bike shoes properly is essential for maintaining their condition and performance on the trail. By cleaning your shoes, stuffing them with newspaper or a shoe tree, keeping them in a cool, dry place, avoiding damp or humid areas, using shoe bags, considering using odor-absorbing products, keeping them away from pests, and staying organized, you can ensure your MTB shoes are ready to go when you are. Remember, proper storage is crucial for a safe and enjoyable off-road riding experience.