Caring for waterproof running shoes

A waterproof membrane keeps puddles and wet grass out, but only for as long as it is looked after. A few minutes of care after a muddy run keeps the inside dry and the shoes going for months longer.

Clean them while the mud is fresh

Knock off loose dirt, then rinse the uppers with lukewarm water and a soft brush. Skip the washing machine and strong detergents: heat and tumbling stress the seams and the bonded membrane, and soap left in the fabric draws water in.

Dry them slowly

Take out the insoles, loosen the laces and stuff the shoes with newspaper, changing it once it is damp. Leave them at room temperature. Radiators, heaters and direct sun can warp the midsole and weaken the glue that holds the upper together.

Restore the outer finish

When water stops beading on the upper and starts soaking in, the membrane underneath is usually still fine, but the wet outer fabric makes the shoe heavier and colder. A spray-on water-repellent treatment, applied to clean, damp uppers, brings the beading back.

Know when they are done

Damp socks after a dry run mean sweat, not a leak. Wet socks after a puddle mean it is time to look for worn patches near the toe crease, which is where membranes usually give out first.