HOW TO DRY YOUR WET HIKING BOOTS?
by Michele Michel
Wow, it’s been a wet and wild month for Trek Training! Mother Nature sure has turned on the taps, but if there’s one thing we’ve learned, it’s how to embrace the rain and keep on trekking.
There’s wet… and then there’s WET. You know what I mean—that soaked-to-the-bone, squelching-boots kind of wet that makes you question your life choices mid-training! But we pushed through (as we always do), and those post-session high-fives and muddy smiles made it all worthwhile.
Now, let’s talk about the aftermath. Drying your clothes? A breeze. But your boots? That’s a whole different challenge. Wet boots aren’t just uncomfortable—they can lead to long-term damage if not dried properly. So, here’s your ultimate guide to salvaging those soggy hiking boots:
How to Dry Your Hiking Boots Like a Pro
Remove the Inner Soles: Remove the inner soles to allow both them and the interior of your boots to dry thoroughly.
Loosen the Laces: Open up those laces to let as much air circulate as possible.
Stuff with Newspaper: Crumple up newspaper or paper towels and pack them snugly inside your boots. The paper will help absorb the moisture.
Choose a Warm, Ventilated Space: Leave your boots in a spot that’s warm and has good airflow, but don’t place them directly in front of a heater or fire or in direct sunlight—it could shrink or crack the material.
Change the Newspaper: Swap out the damp newspaper every few hours until your boots feel dry and ready to roll again.
Pro Tip: If you’re out of newspaper, a clean, dry tea towel can work too.
Why It Matters?
Properly drying your boots not only keeps them comfortable for your next adventure but also extends their lifespan—because let’s face it, good hiking boots are an investment worth protecting.
So, next time the skies open up during Trek Training or on your next hike, you’ll be ready. Rain or shine, we’re here to show the elements who’s boss (but let’s kindly ask for a bit more shine next month, okay?).