"All mountain and hiking boots can be resoled."

All cemented shoes in the TREKKING and MOUNTAINEERING categories can be resoled at LOWA. Whether this makes sense depends on the condition of the shoes. Age does not play a role. Even very old shoes can be fitted with a new sole and a fresh protective rubber rand. However, leisure and lightweight hiking shoes in the ALL TERRAIN CLASSIC and ALL TERRAIN SPORT categories cannot be fully resoled due to the way they are manufactured. In these models, the sole is attached using a special injection process and therefore cannot be replaced. A heel renewal, however, is possible. In any case, the LOWA service team will be happy to advise you.

"A shoe lasts forever with the right care."

LOWA shoes are designed for durability, and many parts can be repaired or replaced. However, some materials have a limited lifespan, such as the cushioning wedge in the sole. This synthetic material ages over time and eventually becomes brittle. This is a natural wear process.For this reason, LOWA offers a complete resoling service for its TREKKING and MOUNTAINEERING categories, in which both the cushioning wedge and the worn outsole are fully replaced. Yet even this comprehensive renewal cannot change one simple truth: nothing lasts forever.

"With a good mountain boot, you can do almost anything."

Whether it’s a hike or a stroll through the city: a good and sturdy outdoor shoe can cover many areas of use. Nevertheless, each shoe category at LOWA has certain limits, and the corresponding models are not designed for every adventure. Safety comes first. For example, multifunctional shoes in the ALL TERRAIN CLASSIC or ALL TERRAIN SPORT categories are very lightweight, but they are not suitable for use on scree or for hiking tours in rough terrain. For optimal protection and sufficient stability, a trekking shoe is the better choice. Each area of use therefore has a corresponding shoe that fits it.

"A manufacturer’s shoe size is always consistent."

Even though the length of shoes in a given size at LOWA remains approximately the same, shoe sizes are not standardized. As a result, there can always be slight differences in size between different categories and manufacturers. In addition, the shape of the shoe plays an important role in how the size is perceived. A narrower shape makes a shoe feel smaller, while a wider shape makes it feel larger. Over the course of life, the foot naturally changes as well. With increasing age, it becomes wider and longer. That is why LOWA recommends always trying on shoes in-store before purchasing and checking the chosen size. When trying on shoes at a specialist retailer, it is best to remove the insole and stand on it. This quickly shows whether the foot has enough space. A small orientation aid is provided by the size chart on the website.

"Leather shoes must be greased regularly."

Leather greases and oils are clearly not the optimal choice for caring for a modern leather shoe. It is important that leather shoes are regularly maintained in order to keep them supple and ready for use over the long term. However, there are differences when it comes to choosing care products. The leather greases and oils that are often used are generally unsuitable, as they soften the leather over time and may even seal it completely, preventing the shoe from breathing. They can also cause the adhesives in the shoe to loosen. It is better to use special leather wax and waterproofing spray. Specialized leather care products for outdoor shoes, such as LOWA Active Cream or LOWA Water Stop PRO, are available from specialist retailers.

"Hiking boots are always waterproof."

The misconception that every outdoor shoe is automatically waterproof is unfortunately widespread. Yet the different models vary greatly in their construction and materials. A shoe with a leather lining, for example, shows its strengths in warm and dry conditions. The leather lining can absorb a lot of moisture (sweat), provides a cooling effect, and adapts perfectly to the foot. These shoes can withstand damp conditions for a certain period of time. However, this lining is not waterproof and also requires some time to dry. Shoes with a GORE-TEX lining, on the other hand, are waterproof and therefore ideally suited for use in wet conditions – especially over longer periods. Which shoe is right for whom depends on the intended use and personal preferences.

Care tips

The hike is successfully completed, you sit together tired and happy and the mountain boots stand unnoticed in the corner. But they deserve a bit of attention after the tour.

Good care will keep your shoes comfortable and water-repellent for a long time! The following tips apply to all LOWA models made from smooth, nubuck and suede leather. To ensure that the leather stays that way and you can enjoy your high-quality shoes for a long time, you should look after them regularly. Newly purchased shoes do not require any additional care before the first tour, but it makes sense to refresh the leather impregnation. For shoes made of synthetic upper material, step 4 of care with wax treatment is omitted.

HOW TO LOOK AFTER YOUR LOWA SHOES PROPERLY

€5.00

LOWA PFLEGEBÜRSTE

High-quality horsehair brush for shoe cleaning and care.

1.Preparation
If your shoes have become wet and dirty, dry them in a well-ventilated room, but away from heat sources. The leather could dry out or crack. Remove the laces so that the care products can also reach the hidden areas of your shoe. Remove the insole too, this is particularly important after several days of touring: a lot of moisture collects in the insole.

2.Basic cleaning
Brush your shoes thoroughly to make the leather air-permeable and breathable again. Then clean it with warm water and a brush. If the shoes are very dirty, we recommend using lukewarm soapy water or a shoe cleaning agent (e.g. LOWA Shoe Clean). The cleaning agent opens the pores of the leather and should be rinsed out well with water. The leather is now in an unprotected state: the water is immediately absorbed by the leather. You should therefore waterproof the shoe after it has dried.
Take care when drying: Leave the shoes to dry in a well-ventilated room. Under no circumstances should they be left in the sun, in the bathroom, by the radiator, near the oven or in a hot car! The wet leather can "burn", causing irreparable cracks. Your shoes can develop mould in damp rooms.

3.Waterproofing
The shoes should be slightly damp when you spray them with a solvent-based impregnation spray (aerosol). The wide-open pores allow the impregnation to penetrate deeply into the material. If you use a water-based impregnation spray (e.g., LOWA Water Stop ECO), it can also be applied well to dry leather. Afterwards, you should distribute the liquid well with a cloth or sponge. After 24 hours, it will have its full effect. The shoes are now water and dirt repellent again. After about three weeks, the effect diminishes. Regular re-impregnation prevents water and dirt absorption. The breathability of the leather is also maintained: the leather does not soak up water and remains water repellent. The shoes are then fully protected again. Especially before your next tour, you should re-impregnate your shoes.

4.Care
If you use your shoes often and they are frequently exposed to moisture, you should treat them with care products. Rub in a wax cream (e.g. LOWA Active Cream) or wax emulsion with a soft brush (e.g. LOWA care brush) to keep the shoes resistant. This is also essential for shoes with a GORE-TEX membrane. Leather that is not cared for dries out, becomes brittle and tears. The shoe is then irreparably damaged. Give your shoes enough time to dry out. You should waterproof your shoes again before a tour. Do not use pure oils or greases; although they make the leather very soft and almost waterproof, the leather pores are closed and the shoes lose their stability and breathability. Adhesions can also come loose.
A special feature of nubuck and suede leathers: The surface of these leathers becomes smoother, shinier and also darker when the wax is applied. The surface of suede leather can be brushed with a suede brush (e.g. LOWA triangular brush), but the original look will be lost somewhat. This process is not necessary or not possible with smooth and nubuck leather.

5.Storage
Store your shoes in a shoe bag or box in a dry, airy place. To maintain the shape of the shoe, it is advisable to use a wooden shoe tree. It maintains the shape of the shoe and prevents a crease from forming. Alternatively, you can also stuff crumpled newspaper into the toe area. The paper absorbs the moisture and also maintains the shape. Change the paper every day until the shoes are dry.

CARE FOR THE INNER LINING PROPERLY!

If you sweat a lot, the leather lining should be rubbed with a leather milk or wax emulsion from time to time, as the often very aggressive foot perspiration, with the salts it contains, dries out the lining and makes it brittle and hard. The GORE-TEX inner lining does not require any special care, but can be cleaned occasionally with lukewarm water and a light soap solution. However, incorrect or inadequate leather care renders the membrane ineffective. It is therefore not sufficient to simply spray intensively used GORE-TEX shoes with a waterproofing or care spray!

DO NOT WASH IN THE WASHING MACHINE!

You should never wash leather or synthetic shoes in the washing machine. The mechanical impact during the washing process in combination with an increased washing temperature can lead to the colour pigments being washed out, damage to upper materials and the dissolution of adhesions. Your shoes may be irreparably damaged.

AVOID CONTACT WITH ACID, PETROL, OIL, FAT AND LIQUID MANURE!

Acid, petrol, oil, fat or liquid manure attack the sole material and the adhesives. A decomposition process begins which can damage your LOWA shoes. Try to avoid contact with these substances and clean your shoes very thoroughly if they do come into contact with them.

GORE-TEX SHOES ALSO NEED CARE

A big myth is that GORE-TEX shoes do not need to be cared for. The waterproof and breathable GORE-TEX lining is located inside the shoe and therefore has nothing directly to do with the external care of the leather or synthetic materials. A GORE-TEX shoe also needs to be regularly cleaned, cared for and waterproofed in accordance with its upper materials. The GORE-TEX lining will also appreciate a wash with a little shoe cleaner and a soft brush from time to time.

Further myths about the topic of shoe care

There are many myths surrounding the topic of shoe care...

Arthur Kudelka, head of the LOWA service department, explains how to do it correctly.

- "All mountain and hiking boots can be resoled."
  
  All cemented shoes in the TREKKING and MOUNTAINEERING categories can be resoled at LOWA. Whether this makes sense depends on the condition of the shoes. Age does not play a role. Even very old shoes can be fitted with a new sole and a fresh protective rubber rand.
  
  However, leisure and lightweight hiking shoes in the ALL TERRAIN CLASSIC and ALL TERRAIN SPORT categories cannot be fully resoled due to the way they are manufactured. In these models, the sole is attached using a special injection process and therefore cannot be replaced. A heel renewal, however, is possible. In any case, the LOWA service team will be happy to advise you.
- "A shoe lasts forever with the right care."
  
  LOWA shoes are designed for durability, and many parts can be repaired or replaced. However, some materials have a limited lifespan, such as the cushioning wedge in the sole. This synthetic material ages over time and eventually becomes brittle. This is a natural wear process.
  For this reason, LOWA offers a complete resoling service for its TREKKING and MOUNTAINEERING categories, in which both the cushioning wedge and the worn outsole are fully replaced. Yet even this comprehensive renewal cannot change one simple truth: nothing lasts forever.
- "With a good mountain boot, you can do almost anything."
  
  Whether it’s a hike or a stroll through the city: a good and sturdy outdoor shoe can cover many areas of use. Nevertheless, each shoe category at LOWA has certain limits, and the corresponding models are not designed for every adventure. Safety comes first. For example, multifunctional shoes in the ALL TERRAIN CLASSIC or ALL TERRAIN SPORT categories are very lightweight, but they are not suitable for use on scree or for hiking tours in rough terrain. For optimal protection and sufficient stability, a trekking shoe is the better choice. Each area of use therefore has a corresponding shoe that fits it.
- "A manufacturer’s shoe size is always consistent."
  
  Even though the length of shoes in a given size at LOWA remains approximately the same, shoe sizes are not standardized. As a result, there can always be slight differences in size between different categories and manufacturers. In addition, the shape of the shoe plays an important role in how the size is perceived. A narrower shape makes a shoe feel smaller, while a wider shape makes it feel larger.
  
  Over the course of life, the foot naturally changes as well. With increasing age, it becomes wider and longer. That is why LOWA recommends always trying on shoes in-store before purchasing and checking the chosen size. When trying on shoes at a specialist retailer, it is best to remove the insole and stand on it. This quickly shows whether the foot has enough space. A small orientation aid is provided by the size chart on the website.
- "Leather shoes must be greased regularly."
  
  Leather greases and oils are clearly not the optimal choice for caring for a modern leather shoe. It is important that leather shoes are regularly maintained in order to keep them supple and ready for use over the long term. However, there are differences when it comes to choosing care products. The leather greases and oils that are often used are generally unsuitable, as they soften the leather over time and may even seal it completely, preventing the shoe from breathing. They can also cause the adhesives in the shoe to loosen.
  
  It is better to use special leather wax and waterproofing spray. Specialized leather care products for outdoor shoes, such as LOWA Active Cream or LOWA Water Stop PRO, are available from specialist retailers.
- "Hiking boots are always waterproof."
  
  The misconception that every outdoor shoe is automatically waterproof is unfortunately widespread. Yet the different models vary greatly in their construction and materials. A shoe with a leather lining, for example, shows its strengths in warm and dry conditions. The leather lining can absorb a lot of moisture (sweat), provides a cooling effect, and adapts perfectly to the foot. These shoes can withstand damp conditions for a certain period of time. However, this lining is not waterproof and also requires some time to dry.
  
  Shoes with a GORE-TEX lining, on the other hand, are waterproof and therefore ideally suited for use in wet conditions – especially over longer periods. Which shoe is right for whom depends on the intended use and personal preferences.