You’re Breaking your Cricket Shoes!
Don’t Be Lazy, Take Your Cricket Shoes Off/On Properly
The Kick and Regret
Let's face it, we've all been guilty of it – the post-match ritual where exhaustion kicks in, and you end up giving your cricket shoes the boot, quite literally. But, my fellow cricketers, there's more to this tale than meets the eye.
The Unseen Consequences of a Lazy Removal
As tempting as it is to kick off your cricket shoes and call it a day, the unseen consequences can be quite the plot twist. Imagine the horror of discovering a broken heel cup or a broken sole.
Make sure that you loosen the laces and remove the strap allowing your foot to easily slip right out of the shoe. The same goes for putting your shoe on.
When you use your other foot to remove the shoe, your spikes are digging into the back of the heel cup and pushing it in. Over time this will break the heel cup and tear the materials in the heel.
Laziness Hurts
Being lazy with your shoe removal will result in damage over time, not only to your cricket shoes, also to your feet. When you spend 6+ hours in them on a Saturday, you don't have time for discomfort!
Blisters are inbound! Be warned, your heels are going to be covered in blisters if you take your cricket shoes off lazily, in fact that goes for all shoes. Don’t believe me? Take a read of what this guy thinks about heel holes.
Clean Cricket Shoes, Fresh on Field
The Post-Match Grime
Ah, the sweet taste of victory or the bitter sting of defeat – no matter the outcome, your cricket shoes have probably faced some serious on-field action. It's time to tackle that post-match grime, and trust me, your shoes will thank you for it.
Pre-Clean Routine
Before diving into the deep clean, let's talk about the pre-clean routine. Grab a brush, give those undersoles a good scrub to rid them of loose dirt, and let the dust settle where it belongs – not on your shoes!
Now, here's a pro tip: if you've got stubborn dirt clinging for dear life, an old toothbrush is your secret weapon. Those bristles can navigate the nooks and crannies of your cricket shoes like nobody's business.
Main event – Your Shoes' Bath Time
Time for the main event! Grab that toothbrush and some toothpaste and go to town on the upper, really get into the scrub and the bright white of your cricket shoes will be back in no time. This is no place for aggressive chemicals; we're going for a spa day, not a science experiment.
It's like giving your cricket shoes a bubble bath – soothing for them and satisfying for you.
Drying - It’s No Race
Now that your shoes have had their spa treatment, it's time for them to dry. Please, resist the urge to speed up the process with a hairdryer or tossing them into the tumble dryer – your cricket shoes are not fans of extreme heat. This could damage bonding agents and cause overall shoe damage.
Instead, let them air dry like they're catching a gentle breeze. Stuff them with paper towel, an old tea towel or some cloth to maintain their shape and absorb excess moisture. Think of it as tucking your shoes in for a cozy nap after a long day on the cricket field.
Odor Obliteration – Dealing with Post-Match Perfume
We've all been there – opening your cricket bag after a match and being hit with a wave of post-match perfume that's anything but pleasant. Fear not, we have an odor obliteration strategy for that.
Baking soda, the unsung hero of the kitchen and now your cricket shoes' best friend. Sprinkle a generous amount inside your shoes, leave it overnight, and voilà – no more unpleasant surprises when you unzip your cricket bag the next day.
Stains, Begone – Handling Stubborn Marks
Sometimes, victory comes at a cost – stains on your beloved cricket shoes. Fear not, stain removal is a game we can win too. A mixture of vinegar and water can be a magic potion. Apply it gently with a cloth, and watch those stains surrender.
Remember, patience is key here. Rome wasn't built in a day, and stubborn stains won't disappear with one swift wipe. Enjoy the process, and soon, your cricket shoes will be looking as good as new.
The team over at REI have a great guide on how to clean running shoes. The same practice applies to your cricket shoes!
Sole Saving Tips: Prolong the Playtime of Your Cricket Shoes
The Breathability Boogie – Let Them Breathe
Cricket shoes need to breathe, just like you do after a sprint to the boundary. After a match, don't just toss them into the dark corners of your cricket bag. Give them some fresh air – literally. Unlace them, loosen up, and let those shoes enjoy a breath of fresh air. They'll thank you by staying fresh and ready for the next cricketing adventure.
Oh, and speaking of laces – don't underestimate their role in the shoe game. Keep them clean, tie them back up once aired, and you'll add a few extra overs to the lifespan of your cricket shoes. It's like giving them a snug, supportive hug.
The Storage Shuffle – No More Cramped Corners
Imagine if you had to sleep in a cramped space every night – not fun, right? Your cricket shoes feel the same way. After a match, give them a comfortable place to rest. Invest in a shoe bag or simply find a cozy corner in your cricket bag where they can stretch out. It's the storage shuffle – a small effort with big rewards.
If you want to learn more about shoe care take a look this guide here, this one is for running shoes but the same applies for cricket shoes.
Like a Fine Wine – Cool & Dry
Like a fine wine, you don’t want to leave your cricket shoes in the boot of your car over the summer. With some cars around the country reaching temps of 50 + Degrees, you could weaken the bonding agents in your cricket shoes. What does this mean? Well, the glue that holds your shoes together weakening means your shoes could fall apart. This goes for all shoes, and actually this goes for the rest of your cricket kit. Your Bat will dry out, your pad straps will loosen, your boots will fall apart. So How do we avoid this?
Bring your kit bag inside, in a cool dry place out of the way of direct sunlight where possible.
What does this all mean?
Imagine your cricket shoes staying as comfortable as the day you bought them? Put some time into maintaining your equipment and you will reap the rewards with longevity and comfort on the pitch for years to come.
