Maintaining the beauty and longevity of your new custom riding boots requires a consistent care routine. Here are the best practices compiled over years to keep your boots looking beautiful.
Immediate Post-Ride Care
Wipe Down Promptly: As soon as you take your boots off, use a small amount of >Olson's Boot Cleaner< on a damp cloth to gently wipe down the surface. Completely wipe away any dirt, dust, sweat, or arena footing. Pay special attention to creases and areas where dirt tends to accumulate.
Clean Zippers (if applicable): If your boots have zippers, use a small brush (like an old toothbrush) to remove any trapped dirt or debris from the teeth. Apply the >zipper glide< spray to prevent premature wear and ensures smooth operation.
Dry Naturally: Never dry your boots directly in the sun, near a heat source (like a radiator or fireplace), or with a hairdryer. This can crack and damage the leather. Instead, allow them to air dry in a cool, well-ventilated area away from direct heat and sunlight.
Use Boot Trees/Foot Inserts: Immediately insert >boot trees< into your boots. This helps maintain their original shape, prevents slouching, and minimizes creasing, especially around the ankle. To protect the foot, >cedar shoe trees< are a must-have! Protect your boots by removing moisture and odors, protects leather from cracking, smooths out linings and insoles, and keeps the foot looking like new by preventing creases and wrinkles.
Bi Weekly/Monthly Care - Depending on your use
Wipe Down: Using a small amount of >Olson's Boot Cleaner< on a damp cloth to gently wipe down the surface. Completely wipe away any dirt, dust, sweat, or arena footing. Pay special attention to creases and areas where dirt tends to accumulate. Let dry completely
Apply Boot Dressing: Once your boots are completely dry, apply a small amount of >Olson's Riding Boot Dressing< to a clean, soft cloth and gently rub it into the leather. We suggest using this on Ariat, Fabbri, Konig, and Parlanti boots. For DeNiro boots, use their >nourishing cream for calfskin leather< or >Silicone Gel for brushed leather< . These products help to condition and protect the leather, keeping it supple and maintaining its appearance.
Polish (as needed for shine and protection on calfskin boots only):
- Color-Matched Polish: For a polished look and added protection, apply a small amount of >cream polish< that matches the color of your boots.
- Thin, Even Coat: Apply in thin, even coats with a soft cloth or >applicator brush<.
- Buff to Shine: Once dry, buff vigorously with a >clean horsehair brush< or a soft >polishing cloth< to achieve your desired shine.
- Avoid Over-Polishing: Over-polishing can lead to a buildup that can crack. Polish only when necessary.
Best Storage Practices:
Cool, Dry Place: Store your boots in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and humidity, which can all damage leather.
Use Boot Trees/Shapers: Always store your boots with >boot trees< & >cedar shoe trees< inside to maintain the shape.
Breathable Storage Bags: If storing for an extended period, use breathable >boot bags< or cloth covers to protect them from dust and scratches. Avoid plastic bags, which can trap moisture.
Avoid Crushing: Do not store heavy items on top of your boots, as this can deform them.
General Tips for Longevity:
Alternate Boots: If possible, rotate between two pairs of riding boots. We don't expect our daily shoes to last forever, why would we think our riding boot would? Sure, they're more expensive but they take a lot more work to make than a pair of tennis shoes! You should rotate your riding boots each time you ride-never use them two days in a row. A general rule of thumb is to have three pair of boots at all times: one older pair that is broken in, a newer pair that is for lessons and special occasions, and a new pair that is used for shows and/or clinics.
Address Damage Promptly: If you notice any scuffs, scratches, or minor damage, address them as soon as possible. Minor issues are easier to fix before they worsen.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Never use harsh chemicals, saddle soap (unless specifically designed for fine leather boots), or alcohol-based products, as they can dry out and damage the leather.