Leather Boat Shoes: Conditioning For Longevity And Shine

Leather boat shoes are a great investment, but they do require some care to keep them in good condition. One of the most important things to do is to condition the leather, which will help to protect it from wear and tear and keep it looking its best. There are a variety of products that can be used to condition leather boat shoes, including mink oil, boot oil, and leather conditioner. It's also important to clean your leather boat shoes regularly, especially if they get wet, as this can help to prevent staining and odours. When cleaning leather boat shoes, it's best to avoid using water, as this can cause the leather to dry out and lose its natural oils. Instead, use a leather cleaner or a damp cloth to wipe down the shoes.

Cleaning the laces

Leather boat shoes are a great investment, and with some care, they can be comfortable and stylish for many seasons. Before you begin conditioning your leather boat shoes, it's important to give them a good clean. This includes the laces, which should be removed and cleaned separately. Here's a step-by-step guide to cleaning the laces of your leather boat shoes:

Step 1: Remove the Laces

Take out the laces from your boat shoes. This is an important first step as it allows you to clean the shoes and laces more effectively. It also ensures that the laces are not damaged by any products used on the shoes.

Step 2: Prepare a Cleaning Solution

Fill a bowl with cold water and add a small amount of dish soap. You can also use a specialised leather cleaner if you prefer. Swirl the water to create some suds and ensure the soap is mixed into the water.

Step 3: Clean the Laces

Place the laces into the bowl with the soapy water. If your laces are made of leather or rawhide, as is common with Sperry boat shoes, swirl them around in the water to ensure they are fully saturated. For other types of laces, you may need to leave them to soak for a while. Use your judgement depending on the material of your laces.

Step 4: Rinse and Dry

Once you've cleaned the laces, rinse them in cold water to remove any soap residue. Then, lay them out on a flat surface to air dry. It's important to allow them to dry completely before putting them back into your shoes. This may take up to 24 hours.

Additional Tips:

• If your laces are particularly dirty, you can use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub them while they are in the soapy water.
• Make sure to treat your laces with care and avoid twisting or stretching them aggressively, as this could damage their structure.
• If you're in a hurry, you can gently pat the laces with a clean cloth to remove excess water before leaving them to air dry.
• Avoid drying the laces in direct sunlight or using a hairdryer, as this can damage the material.

By following these steps, you'll be able to keep the laces of your leather boat shoes clean and well-maintained, ensuring they look their best for longer.

Choosing the right leather cleaner

Type of Leather

The type of leather your boat shoes are made of will determine the suitable cleaner. Different types of leather have unique finishes and require specific care instructions. For example, full-grain leather, oiled leather, nubuck, and suede each have distinct care instructions. It is important to choose a cleaner formulated for your specific type of leather.

Soiling Type

The type of soiling or stains you want to remove will influence your choice of leather cleaner. Some cleaners are designed to remove dirt, grease, body oils, and light stains, while others target more stubborn stains like ink marks or mould. Identify the most common types of stains your shoes are exposed to and select a cleaner that can effectively address them.

Purpose of Cleaning

Consider whether you are cleaning your boat shoes for general care or as surface preparation before colouring. Some leather cleaners are designed for regular maintenance, while others are meant for deeper cleaning or preparing the leather for repair and recolouring. Choose a cleaner that aligns with your specific purpose.

Leather Conditioner Compatibility

After cleaning your leather boat shoes, it is important to condition them to maintain their suppleness and shine. Look for leather cleaners that are compatible with leather conditioners designed for your type of leather. This will ensure that the cleaning process prepares the leather to absorb the conditioner effectively, enhancing its overall appearance and longevity.

Testing and Compatibility

Before applying any leather cleaner, it is advisable to perform a quick test in an inconspicuous area to ensure compatibility with your unique leather. This will help prevent any adverse reactions or discolouration. Additionally, opting for well-known leather care brands with scientifically developed and tested products can give you added confidence in their compatibility and effectiveness.

Recommended Cleaners

While specific product recommendations are beyond my knowledge, I can suggest some general options based on the context. For example, if your boat shoes are made of nubuck, suede, or aniline leather, you might opt for a mild, pH-neutral cleaner like Nubuck, Suede & Aniline Cleanse. Alternatively, if you're dealing with transferred dye on pigmented (painted/coated) leather, a specialised cleaner like Transferred Dye Remover can help remove it before it sets in.

Drying your shoes

Drying your leather boat shoes is a critical step in the shoe care process. Here are some detailed instructions to ensure your shoes dry effectively without causing any damage:

Remove the Laces

Before you begin the drying process, it's important to take out the laces from your shoes. Leather laces, in particular, require special attention as they can be easily ruined if cleaned incorrectly. Clean the laces separately by soaking them in a bowl of cold water with some dish soap. Swirl them around, rinse with cold water, and then let them air dry for about 24 hours.

Avoid Direct Sunlight or Heat

When drying your leather boat shoes, it's crucial to avoid direct sunlight or heat sources. These can cause the leather to become overly dry, brittle, and prone to fading and cracking. Instead, find a cool, dry place for your shoes to air out.

Allow for Ventilation

Proper ventilation is essential for drying your shoes. Place them in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight or heat, to ensure they dry evenly and effectively.

Use Newspaper to Absorb Moisture

To speed up the drying process, you can stuff the insides of your shoes with newspaper. Newspaper helps absorb excess moisture and also maintains the shape of your shoes.

Allow for Adequate Drying Time

Don't rush the drying process. Allow your leather boat shoes to air dry for at least 24 hours. This ensures that your shoes are completely dry before you wear them again.

Avoid Submerging in Water

Leather boat shoes are designed to handle water exposure, but it's important to avoid submerging them in water for extended periods. While a quick dip in the water won't cause significant damage, prolonged submersion can lead to water soaking into the leather, increasing the risk of damage.

Use Baking Soda for Odour Control

If your shoes have developed an unpleasant odour due to exposure to water, you can use baking soda to eliminate the odour. Simply sprinkle some baking soda onto the insoles of your shoes and let it sit for a full day. Before wearing your shoes again, give them a good shake to remove any excess baking soda.

Applying leather lotion

Conditioning your leather boat shoes is essential to keeping them in good shape. Leather conditioners such as Lexol, Frye, or Red Wing Mink Oil can help maintain the leather's softness and flexibility and prevent it from drying out and cracking. Here are some detailed instructions on applying leather lotion:

• Start by inspecting your shoes for any dirt or stains. Use a damp cloth to wipe away any surface debris or marks. For tougher stains, create a mixture of two parts water and one part vinegar to remove salt stains, or use soap and cold water for other types of stains.
• Once your shoes are clean, allow them to air dry completely before applying any leather lotion or conditioner. Stuff the insides with newspaper or shoe trees to help absorb excess moisture and maintain their shape while drying.
• Choose a suitable leather conditioner or lotion. Different products may work better for specific types of leather, so it's important to know the type of leather your shoes are made of. Some popular options include Lexol, Frye, Red Wing Mink Oil, and Quoddy's Organic Waterproofer.
• Apply a generous amount of the leather lotion to your shoes. Use your fingers or a soft cloth to work the lotion into the leather in a circular motion. Pay extra attention to areas that are more prone to drying, such as the seams and folds.
• Allow the conditioner to absorb into the leather for several hours or even overnight.
• Once the lotion has been absorbed, use a soft cloth to buff your shoes to a nice shine. This will help restore the lustre and shine of the leather.
• Repeat the conditioning process every few months or as needed, depending on the condition of your shoes. Regular conditioning will help extend the life of your leather boat shoes and keep them looking their best.

Remember, always test any leather lotion or conditioner on a small, inconspicuous area of your shoe first to ensure it doesn't discolour or damage the leather.

Polishing your shoes

If you don't have access to commercial shoe polish, you can use a soft cloth or toothbrush dipped in diluted vinegar or lemon juice to clean and polish your shoes. Gently rub the shoe to remove any stains, and then use a dry cloth to dry the shoe properly.

It's important to note that different types of leather require different care methods. For example, if you have full-grain leather shoes, opt for a colourless finish. Oiled leather can be maintained with lanolin lotion, while nubuck leather can be cleaned with an eraser or brush and shampoo, followed by a thorough rinse and air drying. Suede leather can be cleaned using an eraser or brush.

Additionally, consider using a waterproofing agent or wax to protect your shoes and prolong their lifespan. Some popular options include Quoddy's Organic Waterproofer, made from bear fat and Maine beeswax, and Obenauf's boot oil. However, be sure to wipe off any excess wax, as it tends to collect dirt particles.

Frequently asked questions