Boots in storage for awhile - anyway to soften them?

[StanleyCup]

I was given a pair of Wenoka Sea Style booties, hard sole. Seems like about 7 mil. They look like they are in decent shape except they have been stored for a very long time, and they are so rigid that I can hardly get them on and off. And it looks like they were stored with something on top of them.

Is there any way to soften them up? How?

Here are a few small pics, as you can see, there are no tears or holes, but the first pic shows the rigidity of them. I'd like to get them soft.

 

[knowone]

Wool wash.

Do all your neoprene.

And if you're in Thailand, you may as well do all your other stuff as well inside and out.

Do your booties in a strong mix in a bucket.
Rinse and scrub them first with hot water.

 

[StanleyCup]

Wool wash.

Do all your neoprene.

And if you're in Thailand, you may as well do all your other stuff as well inside and out.

Do your booties in a strong mix in a bucket.
Rinse and scrub them first with hot water.

Freezing in Chicago now, but going diving (from cruise ship) on Tuesday (Key West) and Wednesday (Cozumel).

I'll pick up some Wool Wash tomorrow, Moosejaw in Chicago has it. I have Woolite but I don't think they are the same.

Thanks for the quick advice.

 

[tech3324]

I'd buy a backup pair before you need them. I have those exact booties and they became stiff over time even with use. At some point the sole will delaminate from the neoprene, or that's how mine died.

 

[StanleyCup]

I'd buy a backup pair before you need them. I have those exact booties and they became stiff over time even with use. At some point the sole will delaminate from the neoprene, or that's how mine died.

OK, thanks for the advice!