Maintaining and cleaning your ankle support for skiing can seem like a tedious task, but believe me, it’s vital for both hygiene and longevity of the product. After around 6 to 8 hours on the slopes, your ankle supports can accumulate sweat, dirt, and even snow, which can degrade the material over time. A friend of mine, who’s an advanced skier and has been skiing for over 15 years, once told me that regular upkeep of his gear has extended its lifespan by about 30%. That’s a huge bonus considering the cost of quality gear these days.

First, always read the manufacturer’s care instructions. Some ankle supports are made from neoprene, while others might use a combination of materials like nylon and spandex. Each material has different washing requirements. For example, neoprene supports should generally be hand-washed in cold water and never placed in a washing machine because it can damage the material’s elasticity. I’ve heard of stories where people accidentally threw their supports into the washing machine, and they came out looking like wrinkled, stretched-out versions of their former selves.

Hand washing these supports is straightforward. Fill a basin with lukewarm water and add a small amount of mild detergent. You don’t need a lot – usually just a teaspoon for every gallon of water. Dunk the ankle supports in, swish them around for a bit, and then let them soak for about 10–15 minutes. It’s almost therapeutic in a way, like giving your trusty gear a little spa treatment.

After soaking, gently scrub the supports with a soft brush to remove any ingrained dirt or stains. I usually use an old toothbrush, works like a charm. Just avoid using any bleach or harsh chemicals, as these can degrade the material over time. My buddy who used to wrestle in high school swears by using a natural soap, like Castile soap, because it’s gentle yet effective.

Rinse the ankle supports thoroughly in cold water to remove any soap residue. This step is crucial because any lingering detergent can irritate your skin the next time you wear them. Again, the whole process shouldn’t take more than 20–30 minutes, but the improvement in cleanliness and smell is totally worth it.

Once rinsed, resist the urge to wring them out to remove excess water. Instead, lay them flat on a towel and roll it up to absorb the moisture. After that, let them air-dry completely. I usually leave mine out overnight, and by morning, they’re good to go. Never use a dryer or place them in direct sunlight, as high heat can weaken the material and reduce elasticity. I remember reading a report about how direct sunlight degrades the proteins in some fabrics, drastically reducing their lifespan.

Proper storage is equally important. After drying, store your ankle supports in a dry, cool place. It’s a bad idea to throw them into a gear bag while still damp, as this can promote mold and bacterial growth. A zip-lock bag with a few silica gel packets works wonders for keeping the moisture out. I once talked to a guy who works for an outdoor gear company, and he recommended silica gel because it effectively keeps products dry and extends their life.

Replace your ankle supports periodically. Even with the best care, materials like neoprene and elastic will inevitably wear out. Most manufacturers recommend replacing them every one to two seasons, depending on how often you ski. For regular skiers, this could mean investing in new supports every 6 to 12 months. I know, it sounds like a lot, but when you think about the potential for injury with worn-out gear, it’s a worthwhile investment. Plus, nothing beats the snug, supportive feel of a new ankle brace.

If you’re in the market for new supports, check out [ankle support for skiing](https://www.fivalifitness.com/). Investing in high-quality gear can actually be cost-effective in the long run. Think of it like this: spending $50 to $100 on a good pair of ankle supports might save you hundreds, if not thousands, in medical bills if you get injured due to poor support.

Cleaning and maintaining your ankle supports doesn’t have to be a chore. A little regular care can extend their life significantly and ensure that you stay safe and comfortable on the slopes. So the next time you come back from a day of skiing, take a few minutes to give your gear the attention it deserves. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later when you’re back out there carving up the powder, knowing your supports are in top shape.