I’m a sneakerhead, and I’ve spent years chasing that box-fresh look for my kicks. Whether it’s my white Air Force 1s or a pair of suede Yeezys, keeping them clean is a mission.
Two brands dominate the sneaker cleaning game: Jason Markk and Reshoevn8r. In this article, I’ll break down their products, share my experiences, and help you decide which cleaner is worth your money.
From brushes to solutions, I’ll compare their strengths and weaknesses to guide you in keeping your sneakers pristine.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Jason Markk | Reshoevn8r |
| Founded | 2007 | 2010 |
| Key Products | Premium Shoe Cleaner, Essential Kit, Repel Spray, Quick Wipes | Advanced Cleaning Kit, Sneaker Laundry System, Defender Spray |
| Price Range (Basic Kit) | $12–$18 (2 oz or 8 oz cleaner + brush) | $12–$29 (2 oz or 8 oz cleaner + brushes) |
| Brush Quality | Premium, durable boar-bristle brushes | Three brushes (soft, medium, stiff) |
| Cleaner Effectiveness | Excellent on leather, suede; requires effort for tough stains | Highly effective, especially with laundry system |
| Scent | Pleasant, grape-like | Black licorice (divisive) |
| Sustainability | 98.3% natural, biodegradable | No harsh chemicals, eco-friendly |
| Unique Feature | Drop-off cleaning service in LA, London | Sneaker laundry bag for machine washing |
| Best For | Leather, suede, delicate materials | Versatile cleaning, heavy stains |
My Journey With Sneaker Cleaning
I remember the first time I scuffed my pristine white Nike Air Max 90s. A muddy puddle turned my pride and joy into a mess, and I panicked. That’s when I started exploring sneaker cleaners.
Over the years, I’ve tried everything from dish soap to high-end kits, but Jason Markk and Reshoevn8r consistently stand out.
Both brands promise to restore your sneakers to their former glory, but they approach the task differently. Let’s break down what makes each unique, starting with their core offerings.
Jason Markk: The OG of Sneaker Care
Jason Markk has been in the game since 2007, and it’s earned its reputation as a premium sneaker care brand.
I first picked up their Essential Kit about five years ago, and it’s been a staple in my cleaning routine ever since.
The kit includes an 8 oz bottle of Premium Shoe Cleaner and a standard brush.
At $18, it’s not the cheapest, but it feels like a luxury product.
What I Love About Jason Markk?
The cleaner itself is a standout. It’s 98.3% natural and biodegradable, which gives me peace of mind when I’m scrubbing my leather Jordans or suede Pumas. The solution has a grape-like scent that’s honestly pleasant—unlike some cleaners that smell like a chemistry lab.
I’ve found it works wonders on leather, bringing out a nice sheen while tackling dirt and grime. For suede, it’s gentle enough not to ruin the nap, which is a big deal when you’re dealing with delicate materials.
The brush is another highlight. Made with boar bristles, it’s soft yet effective, perfect for getting into tight spots without scratching. I’ve used it on the mesh uppers of my Adidas Ultra Boosts, and it buffs out stains without fraying the fabric.
Jason Markk also offers a stiff-bristle brush for soles, which I’ve used to revive the dingy midsoles of my Li-Ning running shoes. The durability of their brushes is top-notch; I’ve had mine for years, and they’re still going strong.
Another cool feature is their drop-off cleaning service in Los Angeles and London. I haven’t tried it myself (I’m not near either city), but the idea of professionals cleaning my sneakers is appealing.
They’ve cleaned over 100,000 pairs, so they clearly know their stuff. Jason Markk also sells Quick Wipes for on-the-go cleaning and Repel Spray for water and stain protection, which I’ll touch on later.
Where Jason Markk Falls Short?
Price is the biggest drawback. At $18 for the Essential Kit, it’s pricier than some alternatives. The basic kit only includes one brush, which can be limiting if you’re cleaning different materials.
For tough stains, like mud caked on my Air Force 1s, I’ve had to scrub multiple times—sometimes three washes—to get them looking fresh again. It’s effective, but it requires elbow grease.
The application process can also be tedious. You have to keep dipping the brush into the solution, which slows things down compared to other methods. I’ve also noticed the brush isn’t ideal for deep-cleaning soles with intricate grooves; you might need a toothbrush for those nooks and crannies.
Reshoevn8r: The All-in-One Powerhouse
Reshoevn8r entered the scene in 2010, and it’s built a loyal following with its comprehensive approach. I got their Advanced Cleaning Kit ($29) a couple of years ago, and it’s a beast.
The kit includes an 8 oz cleaner, three brushes (soft, medium, and stiff), a microfiber towel, and a sneaker laundry bag. It’s designed to tackle any sneaker material, from leather to mesh to canvas.
Why Reshoevn8r Impresses Me?
The variety of brushes is a game-changer.
The soft brush is great for delicate uppers, the medium one handles general cleaning, and the stiff brush attacks dirty soles.
I used all three to clean a pair of juice-stained Converse Chuck Taylors, and after two washes, they were nearly spotless.
The deep stains between the threads? Gone after I used their sneaker laundry system.
Speaking of the laundry system, it’s Reshoevn8r’s secret weapon.
The kit comes with a laundry bag and cleaning pods you toss in the washing machine. I was skeptical at first—throwing my sneakers in the washer felt risky—but it worked like magic.
My beat-up Vans looked brand new after one cycle. The cleaner itself is concentrated, so you only need a few squirts in a bowl of water, making it efficient for multiple uses.
Reshoevn8r also offers Defender Spray, their version of a water-repellent coating, and Sole Shields to protect soles from wear. The brand’s focus on innovation, like adjustable shoe trees for un-creasing sneakers, shows they’re thinking beyond just cleaning.
Their customer service is stellar, too—I once got a quick response when I asked about cleaning suede, complete with a discount code.
Reshoevn8r’s Downsides
The cleaner’s smell is a big issue for me. It reminds me of black licorice, which I’m not a fan of. Some sneakerheads love it, but it’s divisive. The brushes, while versatile, aren’t as high-quality as Jason Markk’s.
I’ve noticed the bristles on the medium brush starting to splay after heavy use, and the wooden handles can split if they get too wet. The packaging is also a bit snug, which can damage the bristles during shipping.
The price is another consideration. While the $29 Advanced Cleaning Kit is a good value for what you get, it’s still more expensive than Jason Markk’s basic kit.
If you’re on a tight budget, it might feel like overkill, especially if you don’t need the laundry system.
Key Differences Between Jason Markk And Reshoevn8r
Now that I’ve laid out the basics, let’s compare Jason Markk and Reshoevn8r across key factors to help you decide which fits your needs.
- Price and Value
Jason Markk’s Essential Kit retails for $12–$18, depending on the cleaner size (2 oz or 8 oz).
It’s simple: you get a bottle of cleaner and one brush.
For $36, you can upgrade to their premium bundle, but that’s steep for just a few extra items.
Reshoevn8r’s basic kit is similarly priced at $12–$16, but their Advanced Cleaning Kit at $29 offers more bang for your buck with three brushes, a towel, and a laundry bag.
If you’re just starting out or only clean occasionally, Jason Markk’s Essential Kit is a solid, straightforward choice.
But if you’re a frequent cleaner or have a diverse sneaker collection, Reshoevn8r’s kit gives you more tools for the price.
- Effectiveness on Different Materials
Both brands excel at cleaning leather, suede, canvas, and mesh, but they have different strengths. Jason Markk’s cleaner is my go-to for leather and suede. It has conditioning properties that make leather look vibrant and doesn’t dry out suede.
I used it on a pair of Yeezys, and the suede looked revitalized after one wash. However, for tough stains, it takes multiple rounds of scrubbing.
Reshoevn8r shines for heavy-duty cleaning. Its concentrated solution and multiple brushes make quick work of dirt on canvas and mesh. The laundry system is a lifesaver for sneakers with deep stains, like my juice-stained Converse.
However, it’s less gentle on delicate materials, so I’m cautious when using it on suede.
- Ease of Use
Jason Markk’s process is straightforward but labor-intensive. You wet the brush, dip it in the solution, scrub, and wipe. It’s effective, but you’re constantly reapplying the cleaner, which can feel tedious.
Reshoevn8r’s system is more efficient—you mix the solution with water and use the appropriate brush for the job. The laundry bag option is a huge time-saver for deep cleaning, though it’s not suitable for all sneakers (I’d never toss my leather Jordans in the washer).
- Brush Quality
Jason Markk’s boar-bristle brush is a cut above. It’s durable, gentle, and versatile, making it ideal for most sneaker materials. Reshoevn8r’s three-brush system is practical, but the brushes feel less premium.
The wooden handles can crack, and the bristles wear out faster, especially the medium one. If you’re picky about tools, Jason Markk wins here.
- Scent and User Experience
I prefer Jason Markk’s grape-like scent—it’s subtle and makes cleaning less of a chore. Reshoevn8r’s black licorice smell is polarizing. Some sneakerheads on forums rave about it, but it’s a dealbreaker for me.
In terms of user experience, Reshoevn8r’s all-in-one kit feels more comprehensive, while Jason Markk’s simplicity appeals to minimalists.
- Sustainability and Brand Ethos
Both brands prioritize eco-friendly products. Jason Markk’s cleaner is 98.3% natural and biodegradable, and their commitment to sustainable practices is evident in their packaging and drop-off services.
Reshoevn8r avoids harsh chemicals and emphasizes transparency in its mission to “make people feel good” through shoe care. If sustainability matters to you, both are solid choices, but Jason Markk edges out slightly with its natural formula.
- Unique Features
Jason Markk’s drop-off cleaning service is a unique perk, though it’s only available in select cities. Their Repel Spray is also a standout for protecting sneakers from water and stains.
Reshoevn8r’s sneaker laundry system is a bold innovation, and their Sole Shields and adjustable shoe trees add versatility for sneakerheads who want to maintain their kicks beyond cleaning.
My Experiences With Jason Markk And Reshoevn8r
To give you a clear picture, I tested both brands on different sneakers. First up, my muddy Air Force 1s.
With Jason Markk, I spent about 20 minutes scrubbing with the Premium Shoe Cleaner and brush.
After three washes, they were white again, but it took effort. Reshoevn8r’s Advanced Kit was faster—I used the medium brush and cleaner, followed by the laundry bag.
After one wash cycle, the sneakers were spotless, though I noticed a faint licorice smell lingering.
Next, I tackled a pair of suede Puma Suedes.
Jason Markk’s cleaner and soft brush worked beautifully, restoring the nap without damage. Reshoevn8r’s soft brush was effective, but I had to be extra careful not to over-scrub, as the solution felt a bit stronger.
For canvas Vans, Reshoevn8r’s laundry system was a clear winner—quick and thorough—while Jason Markk required more manual scrubbing.
Which Should You Choose?
Your choice depends on your needs and budget. If you value premium quality, a pleasant scent, and a brand with a long-standing reputation, Jason Markk is your pick.
It’s ideal for leather and suede sneakers and perfect for sneakerheads who don’t mind putting in some effort for great results. If you want a versatile, all-in-one kit and don’t mind the smell, Reshoevn8r is the way to go.
Its laundry system and multiple brushes make it a powerhouse for heavy stains and frequent cleaners.
For me, I lean toward Jason Markk for my delicate sneakers and Reshoevn8r for my beaters. I keep both in my cleaning arsenal, but if I had to pick one, Reshoevn8r’s value and efficiency edge out slightly. That said, you can’t go wrong with either—they’re both miles ahead of using dish soap and a toothbrush.
- Alternatives To Consider
While Jason Markk and Reshoevn8r are top dogs, other brands like Crep Protect and Sneaker Lab are worth mentioning. Crep Protect’s Cure Kit ($20) offers a travel-friendly solution with a soft brush, towel, and cleaner. It’s great for quick cleanups but less effective for deep stains.
Sneaker Lab’s biodegradable wipes are handy for on-the-go cleaning, but their brush quality lags behind. If you’re on a budget, diluted Dr. Bronner’s Castile Soap with a microfiber towel can work surprisingly well, though it lacks the specialized formulas of dedicated cleaners.
Pro Tips For Sneaker Cleaning
No matter which brand you choose, here are some tips I’ve learned from years of cleaning sneakers:
- Always test the cleaner on a small, hidden area first, especially on suede or dyed materials.
- Use a soft brush for uppers, a stiff brush for soles, and a toothbrush for tight spots.
- Stuff sneakers with paper towels to maintain their shape while cleaning.
- Apply a water-repellent spray (like Jason Markk Repel or Reshoevn8r Defender) after cleaning to protect against future stains.
- For machine washing with Reshoevn8r, use a delicate cycle and avoid high heat to prevent damage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes, it’s excellent, especially for leather and suede. It’s gentle, eco-friendly, and has a pleasant scent, though it requires effort for tough stains.
It depends on your needs. Jason Markk is great for premium quality and delicate materials, while Reshoevn8r excels for versatility and heavy stains.
Reshoevn8r takes the crown for its all-in-one kit and laundry system, but Jason Markk is a close second for its reliability and sustainability.
It depends on use, but one application can protect sneakers for weeks to months, especially if you avoid heavy exposure to water or dirt.
Conclusion: Keep Your Kicks Fresh
You’ve got a choice between two heavyweights in the sneaker cleaning world. Jason Markk offers premium quality, a killer scent, and a trusted reputation, perfect for those who treat their sneakers like art.
Reshoevn8r brings versatility, efficiency, and innovation, ideal for sneakerheads tackling tough stains or diverse collections.
Whichever you pick, you’re investing in keeping your kicks fresh and extending their life. Try both if you can, and let me know which one becomes your go-to for that box-fresh shine.