Properly cleaning wrestling shoes – maintaining grip & preventing odor
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Wrestling shoes are designed for maximum grip. The special, non-slip rubber sole ensures that you won't slip on the mat – even during rapid changes of direction.
But many make the same mistake: they wash their wrestling shoes in the washing machine.
The result: The grip is often permanently lost afterwards.
Here you'll learn why this happens – and how to properly care for your shoes without ruining the grip.
Why do wrestling shoes lose their grip after washing?
The soles of wrestling shoes are made of soft, grippy rubber that adapts perfectly to the mat. However, several factors come into play when washing them in a washing machine, destroying this structure:
- Detergents dissolve the natural plasticizers in the rubber.
- Heat and friction inside the drum accelerate the aging process.
- Mechanical stress smooths the fine surface that provides grip.
The result: The sole becomes hard, smooth and slippery – the original grip disappears.
Drying mistakes: Sun and heating cause additional damage
After washing, many people dry their shoes on the radiator or in the sun.
However, this removes further plasticizers from the material and accelerates aging.
Result: Even less grip and a shorter lifespan for the wrestling shoes.
How to properly clean wrestling shoes (without loss of grip)
To keep your shoes grippy for a long time: Do not put them in the washing machine!
Here's how to do it right:
- Clean by hand: Wipe with a damp cloth and a little mild soap.
- Sole care: Clean the rubber sole with warm water and a little isopropanol or vinegar water to remove residues.
- Air drying: In the open air, away from sun or heating.
Freshness without washing: SmellWell prevents odor
Odor in shoes is caused by moisture and bacteria – especially after hard training sessions.
Instead of washing frequently, use SmellWell :
The practical bags absorb moisture, neutralize odors and ensure long-lasting freshness.
Discover SmellWell now in our shop – so odors don't even have a chance to develop!
🏁 Conclusion
- Washing machine = quick way, but grip killer.
- Better: Gentle hand cleaning and careful maintenance.
- SmellWell keeps your wrestling shoes fresh – and you maintain full grip on the mat.
