Most jungle boots are made with lug soles. Lug soles have deep “treads” that bite into the earth and provide better traction on mud, snow, sand, and other loose material because they increase the surface area of contact.
Lug soles are distinguished from wedge soles which are relatively flat, but which are preferred on smooth surfaces like asphalt or concrete, because lug soles have nothing they can “bite” into on flat surfaces.
But the downside is that, in some conditions, such as on snow, or on really slippery mud, the lug soles will get clogged, in which case they will perform no better than wedge soles, and you’ll be slipping all over the place.
Therefore, it’s fairly important that you clean out your jungle boots’ lug soles judiciously from time to time, not only as a matter of routine boot maintenance, but to ensure proper traction and safety.
Here are three basic ways to get your lug soles back up and running even if they’re completely clogged and caked with mud.
The Hose Method
This is the simplest method and is fairly easy. Just take your boots outside, lay them on their side, and direct a jet from the hose at the bottom of the boots.
This can be effective if the mud is not too dense or too finely grained. It’s not the most effective on clay or marsh mud.
Also, since jungle boots are designed to be quick-drying, giving them a spray down is generally not a problem.
The Brush Method
You can also use a brush to clean out the lug soles of jungle boots, but don’t waste your time with a soft brush. You’ll want stiff brussels for this job.
This is the most laborious but highly effective because the brush doesn’t just work on the soles, but can be used on the uppers as well.
The Cleaning Wedge/Stick Method
There are some cleaning boot wedges that are manufactured which are highly effective at removing mud and debris from the welt on the boot, as well as from the soles.
But you don’t need to buy one. You can also just pick up a stick off the ground that’s in good shape and use that to force the mud out of the lugs.
Let Them Dry and You’re Good to Go
Once you’ve cleaned off the soles of your jungle boots, the next best thing to do is to clean off the uppers and oil them if possible.
Then if the boots are wet, let them dry and once they’re good you can get back out there.
Here for a New Pair of Jungle Boots?
In need of a new pair of jungle boots? You can get them online at Fatigues Army Navy. Visit their website first; they carry a wide range of jungle boots and other footwear, for both adults and kids, at competitive prices.
Check out what they offer over on their website and if you have any questions, get in touch with them directly.
