Sweat, moisture, and a closed gym bag are the most common causes of unpleasant odors. With a simple routine, wrestling shoes stay fresh longer and the material is protected.
Immediately after training
- Take the shoes out of the gym bag immediately.
- Open the laces and tongue wide so that air can circulate.
- Remove loose insoles if the model is designed for them.
- Let everything dry completely at room temperature.
Do not place damp shoes directly on heaters and do not use a hot hairdryer. Too much heat can damage adhesives, shape, and upper material.
Removing light dirt
Remove dry dust first with a soft brush. Then you can wipe the upper material and the edge of the sole with a slightly damp cloth. For heavier dirt, a small amount of mild soap helps. Test cleaning agents on an inconspicuous area first.
Can wrestling shoes go in the washing machine?
Only wash wrestling shoes in the machine if the manufacturer expressly allows it. Water, spinning, and heat can strain adhesives and materials. Gentle hand cleaning is the safer method in case of doubt. The dryer is also unsuitable.
Effectively avoiding odors
Odors occur primarily when moisture cannot escape. Let the shoes dry open after every use and use fresh sports socks daily. You can find suitable models in our sock collection.
The SmellWell odor absorber absorbs moisture and helps reduce unpleasant odors. Place the pouches in the drying shoes after training and follow the product's instructions for use.
Caring for laces and insoles
Laces collect dirt and sweat. Remove them if necessary and clean them separately by hand. You can replace worn-out pairs with new laces. Ventilate removable insoles separately; they must be completely dry before re-inserting them.
What you should avoid
- Leaving damp shoes in a closed bag overnight.
- Using strong bleaches or aggressive disinfectants.
- Drying shoes on a heater or in direct, strong sunlight.
- Wearing wrestling shoes outside and bringing dirt onto the mat.
- Covering up odors with perfume spray without removing the moisture.
A simple weekly routine
After every session: ventilate and dry. Once a week: check the sole and upper material, remove light dirt, and check the laces. With frequent use, it is worth alternating between two pairs of socks or even two pairs of shoes so that everything can dry completely.
When should wrestling shoes be replaced?
A persistent odor alone does not necessarily mean the shoe needs to be replaced. More critical are a detached or heavily worn sole, cracks, lack of support, or damaged closures. You can find new models in our wrestling shoe collection.
Conclusion
The best odor control starts right after training: unpack the shoes, open them, dry them, and clean them gently on a regular basis. This way, they stay more hygienic and ready for use for longer.
Are you looking for a suitable model for women? In our wrestling shoes for women overview, you will find suitable unisex and women's models.
