Complete guide: How to take care of 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 maintains 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 the leather too deeply and softens it, causing the shaft to lose its stability. It can also clog the membrane, reducing both ventilation and waterproofing.

Use your boots regularly

Your boots will be in the best condition if they are 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 significantly more comfortable on the go.

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 temperature – dare to use a thicker one even in warmer weather. The comfort of 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 outside.

• 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 lifespan of both the sole and the shoe.

Impregnation and long-term storage

Treat your 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 extra 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 rides.

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 the 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 numb or press against the shins:
Leave the top 3 holes/hooks unlaced for the first few rounds.
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 leather softer and more supple. Perfect for full-grain leather.

Leather wax – surface protection that makes 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 sustainability

• Lanolin – naturally water-repellent

• Beeswax – protects the surface against 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 soft brush

• Use impregnation spray

• Brush the surface after treatment

• Avoid grease and heavy waxes if you want to maintain the nubuck feel.

Suede

• Brush gently with a suede brush

• Use impregnation spray

• Avoid wax to preserve the texture

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 trips

• If the leather starts to feel dry

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

• Before winter storage