Golf shoes are among the most essential pieces of gear that directly impact a golfer’s performance on the course. Beyond providing comfort and traction, well-maintained shoes can last significantly longer and retain their quality—even after exposure to wet grass, sandy bunkers, or dry fairways.
That’s why regular and proper golf shoe maintenance is a must for every golfer—amateur or professional. Keeping your shoes in top condition ensures they remain comfortable, durable, and visually appealing across all playing conditions.
Here’s a complete guide from GoGolf on how to care for your golf shoes properly—helping them stay in great shape and perform their best round after round.
1. Clean Your Golf Shoes After Every Round
The first and most important step in golf shoe maintenance is cleaning them after every use. During play, your shoes are exposed to dirt, grass clippings, sand, and mud. If left unattended, these elements can deteriorate the materials, affect the shoe’s flexibility, and shorten its lifespan.
Use a soft-bristle brush or a microfiber cloth to remove debris from the upper and outsole. Avoid using wire brushes or harsh cleaning pads that can scratch or damage the shoe’s surface—especially for leather or synthetic models. Pay special attention to the outsole grooves, sides, and seams, where dirt often accumulates.
If needed, use a small amount of lukewarm water to assist cleaning, but never soak your shoes. Submerging them can damage the structure and adhesives.
Consistent cleaning not only maintains the shoe’s appearance but also prevents odor and bacteria buildup caused by moisture and dirt accumulation.
[ Also Read: 19 Best Golf Shoes for Men and Women This Year ]
2. Dry Them Properly—Avoid Direct Heat
After cleaning, it’s crucial to dry your shoes correctly. Many golfers make the mistake of drying shoes under direct sunlight or using a hairdryer—both of which can permanently damage the materials.
Excessive heat can cause leather to crack, peel, or shrink, while synthetic fabrics may warp or lose elasticity. The safest method is to dry your shoes in a cool, shaded area with good air circulation. Place them on a dry surface, away from heat sources such as radiators or vents.
If the interior feels damp, stuff your shoes with newspapers or clean tissue paper to absorb moisture. Replace the paper periodically until the shoes are fully dry. This helps maintain their structure and prevents mildew or unpleasant odors.
Proper drying ensures your shoes remain soft, flexible, and ready for your next round.
3. Use Shoe Trees to Maintain Shape and Structure
Using a shoe tree is a professional maintenance habit that every golfer should adopt. Shoe trees help maintain the original shape of your shoes, prevent creases on the upper leather, and absorb residual moisture caused by sweat or humidity.
The best option is a cedar wood shoe tree, known for its natural deodorizing and moisture-absorbing properties. Cedar also releases a refreshing scent that keeps your shoes smelling clean.
If you don’t have one, you can temporarily use rolled-up cloth or dry paper to maintain shape, but a proper shoe tree remains the superior choice—especially for premium leather golf shoes that are more prone to deformation.
[ Also Read: Types of Golf Shoes and How to Choose the Right One for Your Game ]
4. Deep Clean Stubborn Stains with the Right Products
Sometimes golf shoes develop stubborn stains that won’t come off with basic wiping or brushing. In such cases, use specialized shoe cleaners suited to the shoe’s material.
For leather shoes, apply a leather cleaner and conditioner to keep the surface supple and prevent cracking. For synthetic or fabric uppers, use a mild cleaning solution designed for sports footwear that won’t damage the material’s texture.
Always test the cleaner on a small, hidden section first to ensure it doesn’t alter the color. Apply the cleaner gently using a microfiber cloth, wiping in circular motions for best results.
This step not only removes tough stains but also restores the shoe’s original color and reinforces its resistance to moisture and UV damage.
5. Apply Protectants and Polish When Needed
Leather golf shoes benefit from additional protection treatments to preserve their finish and extend lifespan. Applying a leather protector spray or quality shoe polish forms a defensive barrier against water, dust, and minor abrasions.
Leather protectants create a thin coating that enhances the material’s resistance to rain and stains, while a suitable leather dye or polish can rejuvenate faded colors caused by sun exposure or heavy wear.
Ensure the product you choose matches the shoe’s color and material type. Apply evenly and sparingly to avoid residue buildup that could affect flexibility or appearance.
Regular treatment not only keeps your shoes looking professional but also ensures they perform well through varying weather conditions.
[ Also Read: 5 Key Features of High-Quality Golf Shoes ]
6. Store Your Golf Shoes Properly When Not in Use
The final step in golf shoe care is proper storage. Avoid piling or squashing your shoes, as this can deform their shape. Don’t keep them in damp or poorly ventilated areas either—moisture can lead to mold or foul odors.
Instead, store them in a cool, dry place with adequate air circulation. Use the original box or a dedicated shoe organizer to keep them upright and protected. Placing silica gel packets inside the box helps absorb excess humidity.
If you don’t play for an extended period, take your shoes out occasionally to air them out and maintain material flexibility.
Proper storage will protect your shoes’ structure, finish, and comfort—ensuring they’re ready for your next tee time.
Conclusion
Caring for your golf shoes is not merely about appearance—it’s about protecting your investment in comfort and performance. By following simple yet effective routines such as cleaning after each round, drying correctly, using shoe trees, and storing them properly, you can significantly extend your shoes’ lifespan.
Remember: your golf shoes are a key part of your gear, influencing your stability, footing, and overall confidence on the course. Treat them with the same care as your clubs, and they’ll continue to support your best swings for many seasons to come.
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