How to Care for Bowling Shoes

Most amateur bowlers will simply rent a pair of bowling shoes when they visit a bowling alley with friends. Those who take the sport more seriously, though, will usually purchase their own pair of bowling shoes. These shoes require just as much attention (if not more) than the shoes you wear on an everyday basis. Maintaining the condition of your shoes will help improve your bowling score and save you money in the long run.

Instructions

    • 1

      Disinfect your shoes after each use. Doing so is a very simple process, and takes less than 1 minute to accomplish. Loosen the laces and pull up the tongue as far as you can. Using any name-brand disinfectant spray, spray a light mist throughout the inside of the shoe. Use any towel or washcloth to completely dry the inside of the shoe when you've finished spraying.

    • 2

      Use cold water and a damp cloth to clean the sides and bottom of your shoes. Soap shouldn't be necessary, since there should not be any dirt on your bowling shoes. Soak the cloth and then wring out all the excess water, so the cloth is only slightly damp. Wipe off the sides and bottom of your shoes, avoiding the slide strip. Dry the shoes with a towel or place them in front of a fan when you're finished.

    • 3

      Wipe the slide strip of your bowling shoe gently with a cloth that is just barely damp. Rubbing along the slide strip could damage it beyond repair. You can also use a very small amount of polish if you wish.

    • 4

      Purchase a powder bag from a bowling alley or pro shop and rub the bag on the sole of the shoe. Doing so will improve the slide of the shoe and keep you from "tripping up" while on the lane. Only use the powder that is sold at these shops, though. Otherwise, you could damage the bottom of your bowling shoe.