Got these shoes about six months ago. They’ve been through a few major hikes and a lot of smaller ones over the summer. My mom washed them in the machine a few weeks back, and since then, my right shoe has this discoloration. Tried hand washing and drying them again, but no luck. Anyone know how to fix this?
They’re Salomon X Ultra 04s. It looks like a grease or oil stain, but I don’t think that’s what it is.
Maybe just roll with it?
They’re hiking shoes. They’re made to get dirty. Why does it matter how they look?
Dior said:
They’re hiking shoes. They’re made to get dirty. Why does it matter how they look?
I get that, but I also wear them as casual shoes in bad weather because they look good otherwise.
@Wei
Then maybe just buy a second pair?
And maybe have a talk with your mom about laundry instructions next time. These things matter!
It might be detergent residue on the shoe material. Try running them through the washer again but only with water.
Valen said:
It might be detergent residue on the shoe material. Try running them through the washer again but only with water.
Thanks for the tip! It doesn’t ruin how they work, but it just bugs me when I look at them.
Washing and drying shoes like that can really mess them up. The heat can destroy adhesives, and they’re not designed for that kind of tumbling. Best to just clean them by hand.
Zen said:
Washing and drying shoes like that can really mess them up. The heat can destroy adhesives, and they’re not designed for that kind of tumbling. Best to just clean them by hand.
I see your point, but if you use a cold cycle and a mesh bag, it’s usually fine. I wash my running shoes every so often and they’re still good. Air drying is a must, though.
@Quince
Gore-Tex shoes are a different story. Machine washing can ruin them.
Noor said:
@Quince
Gore-Tex shoes are a different story. Machine washing can ruin them.
Good point. I’ve never had Gore-Tex shoes, so I hadn’t considered that.
@Quince
Yeah, I once had a roommate who dried his sneakers in the dryer, and the whole place stank of glue for days.
Looks like it’s time to start doing your own laundry. Part of growing up!
Luca said:
Looks like it’s time to start doing your own laundry. Part of growing up!
Yeah, lesson learned. I’ll take care of it next time.
What’s the deal? Mom, my shoe is ruined!
Zen said:
What’s the deal? Mom, my shoe is ruined!
It’s not ruined, just discolored. The stain really stands out, and it bugs me.
Did your mom use regular detergent? Gore-Tex shoes need special stuff like Nikwax Tech Wash.
Pax said:
Did your mom use regular detergent? Gore-Tex shoes need special stuff like Nikwax Tech Wash.
She probably used regular detergent.