Leather is meant to be used—and meant to last. Since 1927, Snowshoe has believed that caring for leather is about honoring the craftsmanship, materials, and stories behind the things we own. With the right care, leather becomes more comfortable, and more beautiful over time. Without it, even the best-made leather can dry out, crack, and fail sooner than it should.

Leather Care Tips: How to Clean, Condition, and Protect Leather

Leather is one of the most durable and versatile materials you can own—but only if it’s cared for properly. Without regular maintenance, leather can dry out, crack, and wear down far sooner than it should.

The good news? Leather care doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few simple habits and the right products, you can keep leather looking better, feeling softer, and lasting for years—often decades.

Below are our essential leather care tips to help you protect boots, bags, gloves, saddles, and other leather goods.

1. Clean Leather Before Conditioning

Before applying any leather conditioner or balm, always remove surface dirt and dust. Grit left on leather can get rubbed into the surface during conditioning, leading to unnecessary wear.

How to clean leather properly:

• Use a soft horsehair brush to remove dirt and dust
• For heavier buildup, wipe gently with a slightly damp cloth
• Allow leather to dry completely before conditioning

Avoid soaking leather or using harsh cleaners, which can strip natural oils.

2. Condition Leather Regularly (But Don’t Overdo It)

Leather needs moisture to stay flexible and strong—but over-conditioning can clog pores and leave leather sticky or dull.

Best practice for conditioning leather:

• Apply a thin, even layer
• Let it absorb fully
• Buff lightly if needed

For most items, conditioning every few months is enough. Boots, gloves, and frequently used items may need more regular care.

3. Focus on Seams, Stitching & High-Wear Areas

Leather often breaks down first at seams, welts, and flex points. These areas dry out faster and experience the most stress.

Tip:
Use a small applicator or dauber to work conditioner or balm directly into seams and stitching. This targeted care can significantly extend the life of boots, bags, and gloves.