subject: How To Make Your Boots Last Longer [print this page] Whenever you get a new pair of boots, you swear that you will take care of them and keep them looking as good as new. It does take a little daily effort to take proper care of leather. How to make your boots last longer is a trick worth knowing, because not caring for them is like throwing money away.
Before leaving the store, stock up on supplies. You will need some type of leather oil and waterproofing. Ask the advice of the salesperson. Waterproofing comes in different forms. The spray is the easiest to apply, but might not be suitable for all kinds of leather. Some oil will darken the leather. If your boots are the perfect shade right now, be sure to get a product that won't deepen the tone.
Visit the shoe repair shop, and have protective plates added to the toes and heels. Before making the trip assess the soles. If they are thin, rubber half soles can be added which will prolong the sole's life and prevent slipping. If more traction is needed than the sole provides, heavier soles with extra traction can be put on.
Boots will get caked with mud and dirt, and this should always be removed as it's hard on the leather. Use an ordinary scrub brush to remove all visible traces. If the dirt is particularly stubborn, use a damp cloth. Follow up with a soft brush or soft cloth to remove all traces of dust. Dust dries leather just like it does our skin. Dried leather eventually creases and then cracks.
A boot dryer is a worthwhile investment and can be used to dry gloves and mittens too. If boots are wet, put them on the boot dryer. Never set boots to dry in front of a fireplace or heater. Likewise, a blow dryer is another poor choice. Intense heat sources cause over drying and lead to cracking.
Waterproof your boots before wearing them outside. Oil boots regularly to preserve and soften the leather. Make certain to keep boots clean, waterproof, and well oiled where the upper meets the sole. This is the area most inclined to breaking down and requires the most care. Also pay strict attention to the stitching and keep it clean and the surrounding leather supple. Remember the shoe repairman is your friend. Keep boots in good repair and they will last a long time with normal wear.
