Following these tips increase the chances of having happy feet – a good thing when backpacking or hiking.

1. Let wet boots air dry, preferably out of direct sunlight.  To hasten the process with thoroughly saturated boots, remove the insoles and laces, open the boots as wide as possible, and stuff newspaper inside to absorb moisture.
2. Never place wet boots close to a heat source.  Leather can contract, rendering your boots a half-size too small or splitting them.
3. Brush off dirt with a stiff nylon brush and use a toothbrush to get in the small areas.
4. Sprinkle baking soda inside to absorb moisture and odors.
5. If the leather starts to look dry and light-colored, moisturize them to prevent cracks.
6. Store boots in a cool, dry, dark place.