Festival season is here and when you’re out on the dance floor enjoying the music, the last thing you need to worry about is someone stomping on your feet and ruining your favourite pair of sneakers.
And now you don’t have to. Sneaker LAB – manufacturers of the world’s first environmentally friendly sneaker care product, developed in Cape Town – has the answer to festival-proofing your sneakers. In this snippet, founder Jo Farah shares a few essential tips on just how to keep your sneakers spotless this party season.
1. Preparty protection
Yes, it’s a thing and 100% necessary to safeguard your sneakers, whether you’re setting off on a weekend-long festival or not. And if you’re making your way to a music festival, a sneaker protector is especially important; you’ll be spending hours in the sun and you need to protect your sneakers from fading.
2. Opt for leather
It’s the way to go, Farah says. Cleaning your sneakers will be quick and easy, and it simply involves a wipe-down to get rid of those scuff marks and dirt. Sneakers made of suede or mesh are a no-no – well for festivals at least – they look ultracool, but getting rid of unwanted marks could prove to be a nightmare.
3. Choose your sneakers wisely
Think realistically and practically and remember – it’s a festival not a club, there are many nooks and crannies (often muddy and dusty ones) to navigate. Choose the right pair of sneakers beforehand.
4. Sneaker wipes are essential
Farah says they are a multipurpose aid that can be used to clean other items too and are vital for your moon bag this festival season. They also:
- Remove stains from your clothing; and
- Clean your shades and mobile phone.
5. The no-nos:
- Water on suede – it completely destroys the material.
- Harsh chemicals such as bleach and soap break down the fabric’s tensile strength.