Caring for Your Boots – Complete Guide to Leather, Nubuck & Suede | Outdoo

Complete guide: How to care for your boots

If you want your boots to last a long time – and perform at their best – it’s all about regular maintenance. Proper care ensures that the leather retains its shape, protects against moisture and wear, and makes the boots both more comfortable and more durable over time.

Below you will find a detailed overview of how to care for your boots depending on the material, how to avoid common mistakes, and how to choose the right type of impregnation.

Before first use

Before using your boots for the first time, you should treat them with wax or grease to give the leather a basic protection. It is a good idea to repeat the treatment during the first 3–4 uses to maximize protection against moisture.

Important exception:

Do not use grease or oils on boots with multiple layers or membranes. Grease penetrates too deeply into the leather and softens it, causing the shaft to lose its stability. It can also clog the membrane, which impairs both ventilation and waterproofing.

Use your boots regularly

Your boots feel best when used frequently. Preferably at least twice a month.

It doesn't have to be a hike - use them in everyday life and they will mold better to your feet and be much more comfortable on the trail.

The right socks - the key to comfort

Two pairs of wool socks are recommended for a shell boot:

A thin inner layer (liner)

A thicker outer layer

This reduces the risk of chafing and provides better comfort. The thickness of the outer sock can be adjusted according to the temperature - dare to use a thicker one even in warmer weather. The comfort in shell boots lies in the socks, not in the boot itself.

Cleaning and drying

Cleaning

Rinse with lukewarm water

Use a brush to remove dirt both inside and out

Clean regularly to avoid salt, sweat and dirt breaking down the leather

Drying

Dry slowly and carefully

Avoid heat sources above 40°C (radiators, drying cabinets, fire, etc.)

Drying too quickly can cause the leather to crack or lose its shape

Insoles

Always remove the sole after use and let it air out - moisture that remains drastically shortens the life of both the sole and the shoe.

Impregnation and long-term storage

Treat the boots regularly with natural wax or grease to keep the leather resistant to water and wear.

If the boots are to be stored for a longer period of time, it is especially important to treat them beforehand.

For boots with cellular rubber or similar materials:

– Never impregnate this. Wash it off when necessary, no more is needed.

Always store your boots in a cool, dry place between trips.

Nubuck and suede boots

Do you want to keep the suede-like surface?

Then you should use impregnation spray – but keep in mind that spray requires regular application to maintain water repellency.

Do you want more long-term protection?

Wax your boots – but then the nubuck finish will gradually disappear and be replaced by a darker, shinier surface with a nice patina.

Too hard shafts?

If the shafts feel dull or press against your shins:

Leave the top 3 holes/hooks unlaced during the first few trips.

This helps the boot to soften without creating unnecessary friction.

Leather grease or wax – what should you choose?

Both grease and wax protect the leather against moisture and external wear, but they have different properties.

Leather grease – softens and penetrates deeply

Lundhags leather grease is based on a traditional Jämtland recipe that gives the leather a lovely tar scent and very good water resistance.

Contains:

Animal fat – revives and protects

Tar – prevents rot and provides extra durability

Linseed oil – water repellent

Beeswax – protective barrier and shine

Leather grease makes the leather softer and more supple. Perfect for full-grain leather.

Leather wax – surface protection that makes the leather stiffer

Wax does not penetrate as deeply into the leather and therefore retains more of its stiffness. Good for boots where stability is important.

Contains:

Carnauba wax – shine and water repellency

Jojoba oil – durability and durability

Lanolin – natural water repellent

Beeswax – protects the surface from moisture and wear

Note: Both grease and wax will darken light leather boots. Grease darkens more than wax.

Quick guide: How to maintain different types of leather

Nubuck

Clean with a soft brush

Use impregnation spray

Brush the surface after treatment

Avoid grease and heavy waxes if you want to keep the nubuck feel

Suede

Brush gently with a suede brush

Use impregnation spray

Avoid wax to preserve the structure

Full-grain leather

Clean with leather cleaner

Treat regularly with grease or wax

Keep the leather moisturized to avoid cracks

When do boots need maintenance?

Before first use

After longer rides

If the leather starts to feel dry

If the boots start to absorb water (dark wet spots)

Before winter storage