You spent real money on your kicks. Treat them right.
Daily Maintenance
Rotate your pairs. Wearing the same shoe daily breaks down cushioning 3x faster. Let them breathe between wears — at least 24 hours.
Cleaning by Material
Leather (Air Force 1s, Jordan 1s, Dunks)
- Wipe with a damp microfiber cloth after every wear
- Use a soft-bristle brush with mild soap for deeper cleans
- Condition with a leather conditioner every 3–4 months to prevent cracking
- Never submerge leather in water
Suede & Nubuck (Jordan 5s, some Air Max)
- Suede brush only — no water, no soap
- Use a suede protector spray before first wear
- For stains: let it dry completely first, then brush out
- Avoid rainy days if possible
Mesh & Knit (Yeezys, UltraBoosts)
- Remove insoles and laces, wash laces separately
- Use a soft brush with warm soapy water in circular motions
- Air dry only — dryer heat destroys the midsole bond
Sole Cleaning
Icy soles are a flex. Keep them clear with a toothbrush and a mix of baking soda + hydrogen peroxide. Apply, let sit 10 minutes in sunlight, wipe clean. Repeat until you get the clarity you want.
Storage
- Keep in original box or clear stackable containers
- Stuff with paper to hold shape (never newspaper — it bleeds)
- Add silica gel packets to absorb moisture
- Store away from direct sunlight — UV fades colorways fast
Product Picks
Jason Markk, Crep Protect, and Reshoevn8r are the standards. All available online. Avoid cheap alternatives — they often strip finishes on premium leathers.
Got a pair you need advice on? Drop us a message at cordialkicks@gmail.com.
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