Boot Care
To extend the life of your boots, it is very important to perform maintenance on a regular basis. Cleaning your boots to remove dust and dirt and applying a quality leather conditioner, are critical in helping preserve the leather in your boots. Because many leathers differ in nature, some naturally and some due to the tanning process, the methods for proper boot care can vary. While the steps to caring for your boots are relatively easy. The following are some general suggestions for the different leathers:
COWHIDE LEATHERS -(Bull Hide, Bison, Goat, Worn Deer, Embossed Leathers):
1) Remove dust and dirt with a soft brush or damp cloth.
2) While boots are still damp, apply a light coat of quality leather conditioner. Heavy coats of conditioner clog the leather pores and cannot be absorbed. Light coats are much more effective.
3) If you prefer sheen on your boots, apply a thin coat of cream polish (matching color for darker boots and neutral color for fighter colored boots). Let the polish dry, then brush off with a soft cloth.
4) For water protection, light coats of a non-silicone stain and water protector can be applied.
5) Calf leather is much thinner than cowhide. Calf can be cared for the same as cowhide but needs to be performed on a more regular basis.
NAKED (NUDE) FINISH LEATHERS -(Deer Tanned, Non-Work Boot Distressed Leather)
1) Remove dust and dirt with a soft brush or damp cloth.
2) Conditioner not recommended as it can turn the color much darker.
3) A quality non-silicone stain and water protector can be applied when boots are new.
SUEDE LEATHER -Snuffed finish such as Nubuck and Nappa
1) Apply a non-silicone stain and water protector when boots are new.
2) Periodically remove dust and dirt with a soft nylon brush.
3) Try to avoid mud or tarnished water which can discolor the leather and be extremely difficult to remove.
PIGSKIN
1) On smooth pig, clean as you would cowhide. Because this leather is extremely thin, cleaning and conditioning on a more regular basis is recommended.
2) On sueded pig, clean as you would cowhide suede, including the application of a quality stain and water protector.
EXOTICS -(Caiman, Ostrich, Ostrich Leg, Lizard, Snake Skin, Python)
1) Remove dirt and dust with a soft brush or damp cloth.
2) Apply thin coats of a quality exotic conditioner (water based).
3) If a sheen is desired, polish with a matching color, or neutral crème polish.
4) Apply a non-silicone stain and water protector if water protection is needed.
5) On snake skins and pythons, gently clean and condition under the scales where much dust can collect and cause leather deterioration. Spray reptile cleaners and conditioners are available that provide a foaming action to clean under the scales. After conditioning, rub the scales back down in the direction of the scale grain with a soft cloth.
(Note: Because of the delicate nature of exotic leathers, it is very important to clean and condition these leathers on a regular basis. Exotics such as Caiman and Lizard are extremely dry in nature and can crack even when not being worn. Apply thin coats of conditioner rather that thick ones. Remember to do this often.
OIL IMPREGNATED LEATHERS
1) Remove dust and dirt with a soft brush or cloth.
2) While these leathers have additional oils added to them in the tanning process, in time, these oils will start to disappear. Applying heavy coats of conditioner, or products such as mink oil will help these leathers withstand the heavy abuse they were intended for.
3) Since these leathers are the most likely to become soaked in water, be sure to clean and oil them as quickly as possible. Allow them to dry naturally and never under an artificial heat source.
PATENT LEATHERS
1) Wipe boots with a soft, damp cloth to remove dirt.
2) Let dry, then buff with a soft cloth.
MICROSUEDE, MICRO FIBER -(Synthetic materials)
1) Spray boots with a non-silicone stain and water protector.
2) Use a soft brush to remove dirt and dust.
In today’s footwear market, new leathers are being introduced on a regular basis. Unique looks and fabulous finishes created by various tanning methods are becoming commonplace. While we have attempted to offer care instructions for the bulk of the leathers, there can certainly be some exceptions. We cannot be held responsible for any damage to your boots as a result of these guidelines. So, always test in a small area, and follow manufacture specific instructions.