Suede soles are chosen for their perfect balance of grip and smoothness on the dance floor, but they require special attention to maintain their performance and extend their lifespan. We work closely with tanneries to ensure a long lasting and soft suede which allows for excellent flexibility for the shoes. We also have special requests for rubber soling too so details on how to care for rubber soles are included below too.
Regular Maintenance
Routine care is crucial for keeping suede soles functional and extending their life:
> Brushing: After every use, brush the soles with our wired Suede Brush. This helps to remove dirt and maintain the nap (the raised fibres of the suede), which is essential for the grip on the dance floor. If you are wearing an XG Sole, be careful when brushing as the thread used to stitch the rubber and suede together is fragile and catching that with a wire brush will damage it.
> Avoid Moisture: Suede does not perform well when wet. Always ensure your soles are dry before use. If they become wet, allow them to air dry naturally away from direct heat sources.
> Rubber soles (including XG Sole): Regularly clean the soles with a damp cloth to remove dirt and grit, which can affect traction and performance. For deeper cleaning, use mild soap and a soft brush to scrub the soles gently. Dry naturally, away from direct heat. To enhance grip, occasionally scuff the soles lightly on a rough surface. Store in a cool, dry place to prevent the rubber from degrading. Avoid prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures, which can cause the rubber to become brittle.
Deep Cleaning
Occasionally, your suede soles will need a more thorough cleaning:
> Stain Removal: For stains, use a suede eraser or a specific suede cleaning block. Gently rub the stained area to lift off the dirt.
> Reviving the Nap: If the nap of the suede becomes too smooth or compacted, rough it up lightly with a suede wire brush (click here for ours). This will bring back the texture needed for optimal dance performance. Like the point above, be careful using a wire brush when you have an XG Sole not to catch the thread where the sole is stitched. Also, brush from the middle outwards to avoid catching the upper material.
Handling Wet Soles
Suede soles can occasionally get wet, which can affect their performance:
> Drying: Should your suede soles become damp or wet, pat them dry with a clean towel and then let them air dry naturally in a well-ventilated area. Do not apply direct heat as it can damage the suede.
> Restoration Post-Wet: Once dry, use a suede brush to restore the nap to ensure the soles are ready for your next dance session.
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FAQs
> Can I replace the sole? Yes! We offer replacement soles (in a variety of colours) on our website (click here for men's size (applicable also for ladies teaching shoes) and click here for ladies). As the soles flatten out a lot over time, it's recommended to simply add the new soles over the top and trim to fit. It can be done with a strong fabric glue, or you could take the replacement soles to a local cobbler and have them help you.
> How often should I brush my suede soles? Brush them lightly after every dance session to remove dirt and maintain the texture necessary for grip. Be careful when using a wired shoe brush generally as they are sharp. Careful not to catch the upper material too because if the sharp brush connects with any of our upper materials, it will cause damage.
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Taking good care of your soles are essential for performance and longevity and it's so important as they are what connects you with the floor!