Smelly cycling shoes: what you can do about it

Let's face it: it's not exactly something we like to talk about. But smelly cycling shoes are a real problem, and for many people, the unpleasant odour can be downright embarrassing. So why do cycling shoes get so smelly in the first place? What can you do to prevent it, and what actually helps when the damage is already done? Michi has done some digging.

First things first: everyone sweats. Including their feet. And that's perfectly normal. Sweat is about 99% water and is virtually odourless to begin with. That familiar sweaty smell only develops when bacteria on our skin break down certain components of sweat and dead skin cells. Add poorly ventilated shoes, moisture and a lack of proper shoe care to the mix, and your cycling shoes might eventually smell so bad you'll be tempted to throw them straight in the bin.

But don't! With a little care, you can usually keep unpleasant odours under control. Better still, you can prevent them in the first place.

5 tips to stop your cycling shoes from getting smelly

• Let your shoes dry after every ride: Not just when it's been raining! Remove the insoles, open the shoes as wide as possible and let everything dry thoroughly. Ideally, give them at least 24 hours. The important thing is to make sure they're completely dry before wearing them again.
• Give them a helping hand: In autumn and winter, leaving your shoes out on the balcony probably won't do much good. A shoe dryer can help, preferably using cool air or a low temperature. Too much heat can damage adhesives and materials, so putting your shoes directly on a radiator isn't a great idea either.
• Choose good-quality socks: It's not just about the shoes. Your socks make a difference too. Merino wool, for example, absorbs moisture well and tends to develop less odour. High-quality technical socks can also be a good choice. What matters most is keeping your feet as dry as possible.
• Don't forget foot hygiene: Wash your feet every day, dry them thoroughly, especially between your toes, and keep your toenails trimmed. Gently remove excess hard skin when necessary. And whenever you're at home, spend some time barefoot to give your feet a chance to breathe.
• Don't wear the same cycling shoes every day: If you ride frequently, having a second pair is well worth it. Alternate between your newer and older cycling shoes, for example. That way, each pair has enough time to dry out completely.

What if your cycling shoes already stink?

If all your efforts have failed and your cycling shoes still smell absolutely awful, there are a few home remedies and other tricks worth trying.

• Baking soda: remove the insoles and sprinkle about a teaspoon of baking soda into each dry shoe. Leave it overnight, then vacuum it out thoroughly the next day. Baking soda can help neutralise unpleasant odours, although it won't necessarily eliminate the underlying cause.
• Replace the insoles: stubborn odours often linger in the insoles. Replacing them can make a surprisingly big difference. If your insoles are washable, clean them according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• Clean your shoes: some cycling shoes can be cleaned with lukewarm water and a mild detergent. Always check the manufacturer's care instructions first. And make sure your shoes dry completely afterwards!
• Shoe deodorants: these often just mask the smell rather than solve the problem. And let's be honest, the combination of sweaty feet and artificial freshness isn't exactly appealing.
• Antibacterial shoe sprays: special sprays can help reduce the bacteria responsible for unpleasant odours. They may offer a short-term solution, but they're no substitute for proper drying. Make sure the product is suitable for your shoes' materials and always follow the instructions. Take extra care if you have sensitive skin.

And if absolutely nothing works? Just keep your cycling shoes on when you stop for a drink with your riding buddies after the ride. Problem solved. :)