How to Wash Hoka Sneakers?

As any Hoka devotee knows, their ultra-cushioned shoes can log hundreds of blissful miles.

But eventually, all that road grit, sweat, and debris takes a toll, compromising comfort and performance.

Implementing a proper cleaning regimen keeps your Hoka kicks in peak condition.

While Hokas utilize technical materials and construction to maximize support, their components respond well to gentle cleaning.

With the right mild detergents, soft brushes, and deodorizers, you can resuscitate even well-worn pairs.

Read on for a complete guide to hand washing Hokas inside and out.

We’ll go over inspecting sneakers for stains, gently scrubbing mesh uppers, attacking thick sole grime buildup, and freshening footbeds.

Soon those shoes will feel fresh out of the box—no running specialty store is needed.

Assess the upper materials and stain state

Before washing, inspect your Hokas to identify materials.

Standard models feature open-air mesh uppers for breathability, with suede or leather overlays for structure and durability.

outsoles are carved with EVA foam and high-traction rubber.

Check for stains and wear patterns, especially in the toe box and sides.

This helps tailor the cleaning approach. Be gentlest around leather accents prone to damage from harsh scrubbing.

Gather your supplies

For safe cleaning, avoid bleaches, harsh detergents, and hot water that could break down adhesives.

Opt for:

gentle liquid soap like dish detergent or laundry soap

soft bristle brush and an old toothbrush

Microfiber cloth for drying

Baking soda and distilled white vinegar

Optional: old newspaper, gloves, protective mask

Hand wash the uppers gently with soap

Fill a sink or tub halfway with cool water and a tiny bit of mild detergent.

Use a soft bristle brush dipped in the solution to gently scrub the uppers in a circular motion.

Pay extra attention to the toe box and seams, which collect dirt.

For stains, use an old, damp toothbrush to spot treat, then wipe away the residue with your cloth.

Rinse fully with cool, clean water.

Stuff with newspaper or cloth and allow to air dry fully.

Scrub soles and lugs thoroughly

With Hokas upside down, re-wet your brush in the soapy solution and rigorously scrub the outsoles.

Use a stiff bristle brush or old toothbrush to clean deep tread grooves and edges where grit wedges.

Rinse under running water until clear, and pat dry.

The EVA and rubber will take longer to dry fully.

Point a fan at shoes overnight.

Deodorize and disinfect interiors

Once exteriors are dry, tackle smells and bacteria buildup inside shoes.

Wash the insoles individually with a moderate detergent.

Spray tea tree oil or other antimicrobial spray onto the interior lining.

Or sprinkle baking soda overnight before shaking out the excess.

This absorbs odors and kills microbes.

Let shoes fully air dry before wearing them again—stuff with newspaper to absorb lingering moisture.

Restore waterproofing and protection

Re-apply exterior waterproofing spray designed for synthetics and leather once shoes are fully dry.

Avoid over-wetting Gore-Tex-lined pairs, which rely on membranes to repel water.

Proper hand washing removes stains, eliminates odors, and restores the performance of well-loved Hoka running shoes.

Be sure to fully dry before the next use and consistently clean after muddy trails or sweaty races.