Setup, Compatibility & Care
Initial Setup
- Lacing: Upon first use, fully unlace the shoes. Put your foot in, ensuring your heel is comfortably seated at the back. Thread the laces through the eyelets, ensuring they are not twisted. Start from the bottom eyelets and work your way up. Adjust the tension evenly across your foot for a snug, yet comfortable, fit. Use the top eyelets for maximum security.
- Break-In Period: While generally comfortable from the start, wear your new Gelert Horizon Low WP Walking Shoes for shorter periods initially to allow them to conform to your feet before embarking on longer walks.
Compatibility
- Terrain: These shoes are designed for trail walks, daily adventures, and general outdoor use. They perform best on maintained paths, light trails, gravel, grass, and urban surfaces. They are not intended for heavy mountaineering or extremely rugged, rocky, or uneven terrain where significant ankle support is required.
- Weather: The waterproof membrane upper makes them ideal for wet weather conditions, including rain and damp ground.
Care Instructions
Proper care will extend the life and maintain the performance of your walking shoes:
- Cleaning: Clean the synthetic upper and outsole with a soft damp cloth. For tougher dirt, use a mild soap solution. Gently wipe away grime, then use a clean damp cloth to remove any soap residue.
- Drying: After cleaning or getting wet, allow the shoes to air dry naturally at room temperature. Do not use direct heat sources like radiators or hair dryers, as this can damage the waterproof membrane and synthetic materials.
- Storage: Store your shoes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight when not in use. Ensure they are clean and dry before storing.
- Avoid Submerging: While waterproof, avoid fully submerging the shoes in deep water for extended periods to prevent water from entering over the top collar.