How to Clean & Maintain Your Skate Shoes in 2026

Skate shoes should be considered tools. They take constant abuse from grip tape, concrete, dust, moisture, and repeated impact. So why not keep your tools in good condition?

At éS, durability has always been central, but even the toughest skate shoes last longer with proper care. If you want your shoes to perform better, last longer, and stay comfortable session after session, here are a few tips on how to clean and maintain them properly in 2026.

Why Skate Shoe Care Matters

  • Extends lifespan
  • Prevents sole separation
  • Reduces odour buildup
  • Protects suede from drying out

Taking care of your footwear protects your investment.

How to Clean & Maintain
Your Skate Shoes Step By Step

Step 1 Remove Dirt After Each Session

After skating:

  1. Remove laces
  2. Tap soles together
  3. Brush off loose dirt with a soft brush

Dust and debris dry out suede and weaken stitching over time. Avoid soaking shoes unless absolutely necessary.

Step 2 Cleaning Suede Properly

Most éS skate shoes use durable suede for grip and longevity. To clean suede:

  • Dry brush first
  • Use a small amount of diluted mild soap for stains
  • Scrub gently
  • Air dry at room temperature

Never machine wash suede skate shoes. Washing machines weaken glue bonds and deform midsoles.

Step 3 Cleaning Leather or Synthetic Panels

For leather or synthetic materials:

  • Use a damp microfiber cloth
  • Apply mild soap if needed
  • Clean foxing tape and midsoles with a soft brush

Keeping midsoles clean prevents cracking and early separation.

Step 4 Dry Shoes Correctly

Never:

  • Use a dryer
  • Place directly on heaters
  • Leave in strong direct sunlight

Heat damages adhesives and can warp soles. Instead:

  • Stuff with paper towels
  • Air dry at room temperature
  • Replace paper if soaked

Slow drying preserves structure.

Step 5 Prevent Odor

Sweat breaks down lining materials. To reduce odour:

  • Remove insoles after skating
  • Air shoes out fully
  • Sprinkle baking soda overnight
  • Rotate between two pairs

Rotation significantly increases lifespan.

Step 6 Repair Early

Do not wait for complete blowouts. If you see:

  • Small ollie holes
  • Early sole separation
  • Stitching wear

Apply skate-specific repair adhesive immediately. Early reinforcement can double a shoe's lifespan.

Waterproofing & Protection

Applying a suede protector spray can:

  • Repel water
  • Reduce staining
  • Preserve texture

This is especially useful in wet climates or during winter sessions. While éS Skateboarding focuses primarily on high-performance skate shoes, they occasionally release winterized or weather-resistant versions of their classic models.

Key Weatherproofing Features in éS Shoes

For colder or wetter months, look for these "winter" or "WR" (water-resistant) features:

  • Gusseted tongues: Attached to the sides of the shoe to prevent water, snow, and debris from entering
  • Weather-resistant materials: Treated suede, leather, or synthetic uppers designed to repel water rather than absorb it
  • Insulated linings: Thermal or fleece linings to help keep feet warm in low temperatures
  • Lugged outsoles: Deeper tread patterns for better traction on slippery or icy surfaces

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Machine washing
  • Full water submersion
  • Harsh detergents
  • Direct heat drying
  • Ignoring early wear

Final Thoughts

Cleaning and maintaining your skate shoes should only take a few minutes, but it can add weeks, sometimes months, of usable life.

éS has always focused on durability through design. With proper care, that durability goes even further. Take care of your shoes. They take care of your skating.

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