If you're a sneakerhead, you know that keeping your kicks fresh is essential. Whether you collect sneakers as a hobby or wear them daily, you want to ensure that your footwear stays in pristine condition for as long as possible. Whether you're collecting vintage sneakers or rocking the latest releases, proper maintenance can help you extend the life of your sneakers and keep them looking brand new.
Here are five tips that every sneakerhead should use to keep their kicks fresh.
1. Clean Your Sneakers Regularly
We get it. Sometimes you don’t want to bother with cleaning your kicks after a long day living your best life. But the truth is, cleaning your sneakers regularly can help to extend their life and it’s a slippery slope once you’ve “let it slide” the first time, your most prized pairs can quickly become daily beaters if you’re not careful. Keep in mind, some materials require special attention to detail. If you’re driving a Ferrari, you don’t take it through the car wash at your local gas station. You take it to someone who is going to pay as much attention to it as you would cleaning it. Sneakers are the same, the best need soft bristle brushes to make sure that the details aren’t damaged.
2. Invest In A Quality Sneaker Cleaner
A quality sneaker cleaner is essential for keeping your kicks looking fresh. There are numerous products available on the market that can help you clean your sneakers effectively. However, it's essential to choose a cleaner that's designed specifically for sneakers, as regular household cleaners may damage the material or color of your sneakers.
When shopping for a sneaker cleaner, look for one that's gentle on your shoes but still effective at removing dirt and stains. Also, ensure that the cleaner is safe for the material of your sneakers. For example, suede sneakers require a different type of cleaner than leather sneakers. Always read the labels and instructions carefully to ensure that you're using the cleaner correctly.
3. Condition Your Shoes
This might sound old school, but there is a reason your pops or grandpops were able to make those leather dress shoes and work boots last for as long as they did. Once you’ve given your sneakers a deep clean, the next step is to condition them. This helps to moisturize and protect the material of your sneakers and keep them looking their best. Invest in a comprehensive sneaker care kit that includes cleaning products as well as conditioning products specifically designed for the material of your shoes. Apply a spray protectant to your shoes to help protect against the weather, dirt, and stains, can also help keep the material soft and supple.
4. Be Mindful Of How And When You Wear Your Kicks
One of the best ways to keep your sneakers fresh is to protect them from damage. While sneaker protectant spray can help repel water, dirt, and stains, it’s always a good idea to be mindful of how and when you wear your sneakers. Avoid wearing them in rough or abrasive environments, as this can cause scratches and scuffs. And if you're planning to do any intense physical activity, consider wearing a different pair of shoes to avoid sending a pair of your grails to an early demise.
5. Store Your Sneakers Properly
Proper storage is another key to keeping your sneakers fresh. We would know.
When you're not wearing your sneakers, store them in a cool, dry place, ideally away from direct sunlight. Avoid storing your sneakers in a damp or humid environment like the garage or basement, as this can cause mold and mildew to grow.
In addition, to help maintain the shape of your sneakers, sneaker trees are your best friend. As a last resort, you can always stuff them with tissue paper, cardboard inserts, or socks. This can help prevent creasing and keep your sneakers looking like new. While you’re at it, throw in some silica gel packs to help maintain the proper humidity levels as well.
In conclusion, by following these five tips - cleaning your sneakers regularly, using a quality sneaker cleaner, conditioning them, storing them properly, and protecting them from damage - you can help keep your kicks looking fresh for years to come and that’s why we created the Sneaker Throne display cases for, so you can enjoy your sneakers even when they’re not on your feet. Go ahead and show off your sneaker collection with confidence, knowing that you're taking the proper steps to keep your sneakers looking their best.
