Good boots last for years when they’re looked after. A few minutes after wearing them, and a little conditioning every few months, keeps the leather supple and the stitching strong. Where a product comes with its own care instructions, follow those first.

Everyday care for leather boots

1. Brush off dirt with a soft brush once the boots are dry. Pay attention to the welt, where the upper meets the sole.
2. Wipe with a damp cloth to lift marks, then let the boots dry naturally.
3. Condition the leather every few months, or whenever it starts to look dry. Use a conditioner made for smooth leather, test it on a small hidden area first, apply a thin layer with a soft cloth, and buff off any excess.
4. Polish if you like a shine. Use a cream polish that matches the colour of your boots.

Suede and nubuck boots

• Keep them dry. Treat suede with a suitable protector spray before the first wear, and reapply it from time to time.
• Brush regularly with a suede brush to lift the nap and remove dust.
• Lift marks with a suede eraser. Never scrub suede with water or soap.

Wet weather and winter

British weather isn’t always kind to boots.

• If they get wet: wipe off any mud, stuff them loosely with plain paper to hold their shape and absorb moisture, and let them dry at room temperature. Never dry boots on a radiator, near a fire or with a hairdryer. Heat cracks leather.
• Road salt: in winter, wipe off salt marks as soon as you can with a damp cloth, let the boots dry, then condition the leather.
• Before winter: a fresh coat of conditioner, or a protector spray for suede, helps keep water out.

Storing your boots

• Store boots upright, ideally with boot shapers or rolled-up paper in the shafts so they don’t fold and crease.
• Keep them somewhere cool and dry, out of direct sunlight, which can fade and dry out leather.
• Avoid plastic bags. Leather needs to breathe. A cotton bag or the original box is better.
• Give boots a day off between wears when you can, so moisture from your feet can dry out.

Heels and soles

Heels and soles wear down with use. A good cobbler can replace heel caps and, on many boots, resole them completely. It’s worth doing before the wear reaches the main heel or the welt.

Need help?

Questions about caring for a particular pair? Call +44 7476 604596 or email sales@thecowboybootstore.com.