Like any pair of shoes, your bowling shoes will see normal wear and tear throughout the year.  Avid bowlers may go through multiple pairs of bowling shoes in a single season.  With a little care, you can help your bowling shoes last longer and perform better.

• Get the proper fit. Shoes that fit poorly perform poorly and wear out faster.
• Wear them only while bowling. That is to say, put your bowling shoes on in the pit right before you start bowling. Avoid walking around the center in your bowling shoes, and never wear them outside.
• Match your shoes to the approach your bowling on. You want to make sure you are not over sliding or over sticking when you bowl. If your shoes have interchangeable soles, keep a few on hand to match the approach. If you do not have interchangeable soles, products such as slip on shoe sliders, shoe brushes and powders can help alleviate some of these issues.
• Use a shoe bag. Store your shoes neatly in a shoe bag and keep them protected from the elements. 

For more details on how to choose bowling shoes, see How to Choose: Bowling Shoes

Keeping Your Bowling Shoes Looking and Smelling Fresh

 

Follow these guidelines to help keep your shoes looking and smelling cleaner:

• Don’t wear your bowling shoes around the bowling center. Only while bowling or waiting to bowl.
• Bring a pair of sandals to change into if you need to leave the pit or go outside (shoe covers are also available for a quicker solution. Cover both shoes!)
• When you get home, remove your shoes from your bowling bag to prevent mildew and odor.
• Clean dirty shoes with a damp cloth, avoiding the slide soles, and leave out to dry in a dark, dry room.
• Use your favorite deodorizing foot powder or spray if your shoes start to become smelly.

 

Proper Care for Slide Soles and Brake Heels

The soles of your bowling shoes are the most important part to giving you a clean, consistent slide. The felt on your slide sole allows a smooth slide while the rubber on your traction sole and brake heel keep you in control.

• After bowling, you can clean your rubber traction sole and brake heel with a wet rag, removing as much grime as possible; then, wipe them dry.
• For the felt slide soles, use a wire brush to keep clean and performing optimally.
• As with a bowling ball, never leave your bowling shoes in a hot car; high temperatures can deform the rubber and melt any glues.