Abstract: A mixture of ester based chemicals applied to shoes for the purpose of improving performance in the normal use of the shoe. The mixture is applied to a surface of the shoes and allowed to penetrate the material forming the surface of the shoe. When applied to the sole of a shoe, the esters in the material will alter bulk properties of the shoe sole to alter the adhesion of the shoe to a traversed surface, the operative life of the shoe, the shoe performance and the shoe hardness. The mixture is especially suited for application to previously manufactured climbing shoes.