Hoka running shoes are arguably one of the best sturdiest running shoes on the planet. But even the best shoes start to wear down eventually.
Dirt, grime, and miles of wear can make them lose their magic.
Luckily, with just a few simple cleaning steps and basic supplies, you can keep your Hokas looking like new. In this guide, I’ll share a 4 Steps proven method for reviving your shoes’ appearance with items you likely have at home.
Before getting started, grab these shoe-cleaning supplies:
Now let’s dive into the easy 4-step method!
Step 1: Remove Insoles and Laces
Start by taking out any removable insoles and laces from your Hokas. This prevents them from getting excessively wet or dirty during cleaning. Set them aside someplace dry.
For fixed insoles, take extra care not to oversaturate the interior when cleaning.
Step 2: Make a Mild Soap Solution
Fill a bucket or sink with cool water, then add a small amount of mild liquid soap.
Avoid dish soaps with harsh chemicals. The soap helps lift dirt from the shoes.
Step 3: Scrub Away Dirt
Use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub the entire shoe exterior. Pay extra attention to visibly dirty high-wear areas. For tough spots, an old toothbrush can help scrub away grime.
Be very gentle when scrubbing knit or mesh fabric areas on Hokas. Use light dabbing motions instead of heavy scrubbing.
Step 4: Rinse and Dry
Once scrubbed, rinse your Hokas under cool running water to remove all the soap. Gently blot with a dry towel to soak up excess moisture.
Allow shoes to fully air dry before wearing them again. Stuff with crumpled paper to help maintain shape and absorption.
Key Things to Look For When Cleaning Hokas:
When cleaning your shoes, keep these tips in mind:
- Inspect shoe materials – Knit, mesh and suede areas need more gentle cleaning than rubber and synthetics.
- Check severity of dirt – Heavily soiled shoes may need extra scrubbing and stain pre-treating.
- Watch for color transfer – Wet shoes can bleed some colors onto towels or cleaning tools.
- Air dry fully – Trapped moisture encourages mold/bacteria growth. Make sure shoes are 100% dry before storing.
What Not to Do When Cleaning Your Hokas:
While it may seem convenient, avoid these cleaning methods:
- Machine washing – Agitation and detergent are too harsh on shoes.
- Bleach or harsh chemicals – These can degrade materials and discolor shoes.
- Direct high heat – Direct sunlight or dryer heat can damage shoe fabrics.
- Soaking – Excessive water can ruin adhesive and warp shape.
By avoiding these shoe-damaging mistakes and following the proper cleaning steps, you’ll add miles to your Hokas’ lifespan.
Final Verdict:
With this simple 4-step cleaning method and basic household supplies, you can keep your Hokas looking like new and performing their best. No more relegated-to-the-back-of-the-closet shoes! Regular gentle cleaning will have them feeling fresh and ready for miles.
