Dragging mud, grass, and sand back to your car isn't just messy, it's a sign that your golf shoes are crying out for a little attention. A proper cleaning routine is about more than just looks - it restores grip, maintains breathability, and can double the lifespan of your favorite pair of FootJoys. This guide provides a straightforward method for washing your leather, synthetic, and mesh FootJoy golf shoes to keep them looking and performing their best.
As a golf coach, I see players spend hours perfecting their swing but completely neglect the gear connecting them to the ground. Think about it: your shoes are the foundation of every shot. They provide the stable base needed for power and consistency. When the soles are caked with old dirt and the uppers are stiff from grime, you lose traction and flexibility. More importantly, dirt and moisture break down the materials over time, especially high-quality leather, leading to cracks, reduced water resistance, and ultimately, a much shorter life for a premium pair of shoes you've invested in. Taking 15 minutes to clean them after a few rounds is one of the easiest ways to protect your investment and ensure you have a stable, reliable platform for every swing.
You don't need a professional setup to get professional results. Most of what you need is likely already around your house. Having a designated kit makes the process quick and easy, so you're more likely to do it regularly.
This process works wonders for the most common FootJoy styles, including traditional leather models like the Premiere Series and modern synthetic ones like Pro/SLs. The goal is to clean effectively without oversaturating the shoe with water.
Before you introduce any water, get your shoes ready. Find a spot outdoors or lay down some old towels inside. First, remove the shoelaces. This allows you to clean them separately and gain better access to the shoe's tongue and eyelets. If your shoes have removable spikes, now is a good time to take them out with a spike wrench. Clogged cleats are a major source of lost traction.
This is a an often-skipped but really important step. Take your medium-stiff brush and bang the shoes together to dislodge any big chunks of mud. Then, use the brush to thoroughly scrub away all the loose, dry dirt from the soles, midsoles, and uppers. You'll be amazed at how much gunk comes off before you even get them wet. This prevents you from just turning dry dirt into mud when you start washing.
Mix a few drops of your mild dish soap into the bowl of lukewarm water to create some light suds. Dip your soft-bristle brush into the soapy water and gently scrub the uppers of the shoe in small, circular motions. Work on one section at a time. The key here is to use the damp brush, not to pour water directly onto the shoe. For stubborn scuffs, you might need a little more effort, but let the suds and the bristles do the work - avoid aggressive, grinding pressure that can damage the finish.
Switch to your stiffer brush for the outsoles. This area can handle more aggressive scrubbing. Dip the brush in the soapy water and really get into the grooves and spike receptacles to clear out all the compacted dirt and grass. This is where your traction comes from, so don't be shy.
Toss your laces and any removed spikes into the remaining soapy water to soak for a few minutes. After a soak, scrub them with the brush, rinse them in clean water, and squeeze out the excess moisture with a towel. Lay them flat to dry.
Thoroughly rinse a clean microfiber towel in fresh, non-soapy water and wring it out until it's just damp. Carefully wipe down the entire shoe, making sure to remove all soap residue. You may need to rinse the towel a few times to get all the soap off. Leaving soap behind can create a film and dry out the material.
How you dry your shoes is just as meaningful as how you wash them. Never, ever use a direct heat source. No hair dryers, no radiators, no fireplaces, and definitely no clothes dryers. High heat will warp the synthetic materials, crack the leather, and destroy the glue that holds your shoes together.
The best method is to stuff the shoes tightly with balled-up newspaper. This does two things: it helps absorb moisture from the inside and, crucially, helps the shoe maintain its proper shape as it dries. Place the shoes in a well-ventilated area at room temperature and let them air dry completely. This can take 24-48 hours, so plan ahead. Using shoe trees after the first 12 hours is another great way to ensure they hold their form.
While the main process works for most FootJoys, different materials benefit from a little extra attention.
Once your leather shoes are completely dry, they’ll be clean but can look a little dull because soap and water strip away some natural oils. This is where leather polish or conditioner comes in. Apply a small amount of a neutral or color-matched cream polish with a soft cloth. Let it sit for a few minutes, then buff it to a shine with a clean brush or cloth. This restores moisture, brings back the luster, and adds a layer of protection.
These shoes are super comfortable and breathable but can be magnets for dirt. Be extra gentle when scrubbing these materials, as an aggressive brush can snag or fray the fabric. An old toothbrush is perfect here. For these models, some people are tempted to use a washing machine. I strongly advise against this. The spinning action and high heat can damage the delicate fabrics and foam cushioning, permanently altering the shoe’s fit and support.
FootJoy shoes come with excellent waterproofing, but over time and with multiple cleanings, that barrier can wear down. After your shoes are clean and fully dry, consider applying a quality waterproofing spray designed for footwear. Hold the can about six inches away and apply a light, even coat. This is especially good to do before the start of a wet season to keep your feet totally dry.
Keeping your FootJoy golf shoes in prime condition is a simple routine that pays huge dividends in performance, comfort, and longevity. By following these steps, you’re not just cleaning your gear, you’re maintaining the foundation of your golf swing and ensuring your investment lasts for many more rounds to come.
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