Waterproof shoes are a lifesaver when it comes to rainy weather, muddy trails, and wet work environments. They keep your feet dry, shielded, and protected from the elements. But there’s one thing they can’t always do on their own: prevent bad smells.
Since waterproof shoes like THEESE Purpose and Flow State are built to keep water out, they often seal in moisture and sweat—the perfect recipe for foot odor. But don’t worry—there are simple ways to keep your shoes fresh, your feet happy, and the stink far away.
Let’s dive into why waterproof shoes can develop odor, and more importantly, how to eliminate it and prevent it for good.
Why Waterproof Shoes Can Get Smelly
Even premium models like THEESE’s Purpose and Flow State are designed to trap out external moisture. But unless they also allow sweat to escape efficiently, excess internal moisture can become a breeding ground for odor-causing bacteria and fungus.
Common Culprits:
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Sweat accumulation from long hours of wear
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Poor ventilation or non-breathable socks
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Lack of proper drying time after use
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Dead skin and bacteria buildup inside the shoe
- Wearing the same pair every day without breaks
Fact: Each foot has over 250,000 sweat glands and can produce up to half a pint of sweat per day—especially in sealed footwear.
1. Prioritize Proper Foot Hygiene
Before worrying about the shoe, start with your feet.
Tips for clean, odor-free feet:
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Wash your feet daily with antibacterial soap and warm water.
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Exfoliate once or twice a week to remove dead skin.
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Dry thoroughly, especially between toes.
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Use foot powder or antiperspirant spray to reduce sweat production.
- Consider tea tree oil or white vinegar foot soaks once a week for natural antibacterial effects.
2. Choose the Right Socks
Your socks are the frontline between your foot and the shoe.
Look for:
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Moisture-wicking fabrics (like Merino wool or technical blends)
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Breathable materials like mesh or cotton blends
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Antimicrobial-treated socks
- Avoid 100% cotton—it holds onto moisture and contributes to odor
Pro Tip: Pack an extra pair of socks if you're wearing waterproof shoes all day—change midday to keep moisture in check.
3. Dry Your Shoes Thoroughly
Even THEESE waterproof shoes need a break to air out after a long day.
How to dry your waterproof shoes:
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Remove insoles and place them in a well-ventilated area overnight.
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Stuff shoes with newspaper or paper towels to absorb moisture.
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Use a fan or boot dryer to speed up the drying process (avoid direct heat).
- Avoid sealing them in gym bags or closed spaces immediately after use.
4. Use Natural Deodorizers
There are plenty of household items that work wonders to absorb moisture and neutralize odors.
Natural deodorizing solutions:
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Baking soda: Sprinkle inside the shoes overnight. Shake out in the morning.
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Activated charcoal: Place odor-absorbing charcoal pouches inside your shoes.
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White vinegar spray: Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Mist inside shoes lightly and allow to dry.
- Essential oils: A few drops of tea tree, peppermint, or lavender oil on a cotton ball placed inside can kill bacteria and leave a pleasant scent.
5. Try Commercial Shoe Deodorizers
If you want a quick fix or stronger protection, commercial products can help.
Top-rated options:
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Shoe deodorizer sprays like Lumi Outdoors or Rocket Pure
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Odor-absorbing balls or pouches (charcoal, baking soda, or zeolite based)
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Antibacterial insoles that wick moisture and resist bacteria
- Spray-on shoe disinfectants to eliminate bacterial buildup
Bonus Tip: Look for shoe sprays with antifungal properties to also fight athlete’s foot and fungal spores.
6. Rotate Your Footwear
Wearing the same pair of waterproof shoes every day—no matter how good they are—limits their ability to dry out.
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Alternate between two pairs of shoes if possible.
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Give each pair at least 24 hours of drying time between uses.
- Keep a second pair at work or in your car for rainy days to swap out when needed.
7. Keep Insoles Clean
THEESE shoes come with cushioned, breathable insoles, but even high-quality insoles need care.
How to care for insoles:
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Remove them daily to air out
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Wipe them down weekly with a vinegar-water mix
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Sprinkle them with baking soda weekly for extra odor absorption
- Consider replacing them every 6–12 months for best performance
8. Don’t Skip Maintenance
Waterproof shoes are low-maintenance—but not no-maintenance.
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Wipe down the outside weekly to prevent grime buildup.
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Check for moisture trapped in the heel or tongue areas.
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Clean the lining every month with a mild soapy cloth and rinse (avoid soaking).
- Reapply DWR (durable water repellent) coatings periodically to maintain waterproof properties and breathability.
9. When to Replace Your Waterproof Shoes
Even the best shoes have a shelf life. Persistent odor that doesn’t improve with cleaning could mean:
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Bacteria or fungus has colonized the shoe lining
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Insoles are permanently saturated
- Breathable membranes have broken down
In this case, it’s time for a fresh pair—luckily, THEESE Purpose and Flow State are affordable, high-performance options that come with free shipping, free exchanges, and easy returns.
Conclusion: Fresh Feet, Fresh Shoes—No Matter the Weather
Waterproof shoes like THEESE Purpose and Flow State are engineered to keep your feet dry and protected. But without proper foot hygiene and smart maintenance, even the best shoes can end up with unwanted odors.
With a little effort—cleaning, airing out, and using natural or commercial deodorizers—you can keep your waterproof shoes smelling fresh, performing at their peak, and lasting longer.
Keep Your Waterproof Shoes Odor-Free with THEESE
Shop now at WearTheese.com
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No more wet, smelly shoes—just clean comfort and confidence, every step of the way.
That’s THEESE.