The leather upper of a high-quality hiking boot can last several years. It is important to care for leather in order to keep boots in good condition for a long time. Proper care starts with keeping boots clean. It’s almost impossible not to track through mud and dirt when hiking. The idea is to clean boots whenever necessary.
Leather is made up of a mixture of interwoven fibres that form a thick and porous layer. Dust and dirt slowly penetrate deep into the pores of the leather. Once these pores become clogged, the leather loses its ability to wick away the moisture and heat produced inside the boot. In addition, the dirt channels water deep into the leather, significantly decreasing its waterproofness and, consequently, increasing its drying time. It is therefore a good idea to place your boots under running water after a hike to dislodge any accumulated dirt. If this fails to remove any dried mud, use a small soft-bristled brush to finish the job.
Hydrating and waterproofing leather
Sun, heat, water and dirt combine to dry out leather, causing it to lose its elasticity. The leather will eventually crack and split at the flex points and areas that are well worn. This occurs because the fibres lose their natural oils and greases. The simple solution is to occasionally restore these oils and greases. Several leather waterproofing products contain oils or waxes. Most of these products will darken leather, some much more than others. Water-based products have little effect on colour. Waxes and oils, however, significantly change the appearance of leather.
Products with a high wax content provide excellent long-term protection and waterproofing. Other oil-based products are also very effective. Avoid using animal oils and greases (see Animal oils and greases). Visit our store for information on available products. All these products must be heat penetrated. Apply the product to the entire boot and let stand for ten minutes. Using a heat source—such as a hair dryer—heat the product to allow it to penetrate deep into the pores of the leather. Wipe off any excess. These products offer long-lasting protection.
Water-based pastes
A new line of water-based waterproofing products has been on the market for several years now. These products must be applied to wet leather to ensure deep penetration. The waterproofing ingredient penetrates the leather fibres, and the water evaporates. When the boot becomes wet again, these ingredients create a barrier, preventing water from being absorbed. This product, however, has limited durability. In the long run, the product dissolves in water, breaking down the waterproof barrier. To be effective, the treatment must be reapplied frequently. Fortunately, this treatment is quick and easy. The paste is applied to wet boots directly with a cloth.
Aerosols
Aerosol silicones are popular waterproofing products because they are easy to use. They are, however, expensive and provide only superficial protection. Silicone does not penetrate the leather and comes off easily through friction. Concentrated silicone is too strong and tends to dry out leather in the long term. In addition, it is known to limit the durability of threads used for stitching. The solvents used draw out the leather’s natural oils and greases. As a result, these products are not recommended for hiking boots.
Animal oils and greases
Animal oils and greases (neatsfoot oil, mink oil, etc.) are not recommended. Although they are excellent for maintaining a leather’s suppleness and elasticity and provide very good waterproofing, they have two major drawbacks: these oils stretch and soften the leather to the point that the boot—designed to support the ankle and instep—can no longer provide the desired support. In addition, oil—like all other animal products—rots. This is especially true when they are exposed to sun and heat.
Suede and nubuck
Maintaining suede or nubuck requires special care. A water-based product is needed to waterproof the suede or nubuck. Wax- or oil-based products can also be used with a special nubuck brush. They attempt to restore the leather’s original appearance by lifting the fibres that provide the velvety finish, although the result is never as good as the original finish.
