BOOT CARE AND MAINTANENCE
Cleaning Your Boots
There are many generally accepted ways, often contradictory, of how to clean leather boots (even amongst ourselves). However, many of these procedures can actually damage the GORE-TEX® liner or the leather. With that in mind, here’s the CRISPI® recommended way to clean your boots.
First, take out the laces and use a soft bristled brush to remove any dried mud, dirt and other debris from the leather and outsoles. Wipe the outside with a dry rag to get any residual dust off the leather. Next, use a rag or soft brush and lukewarm water to gently scrub the leather, focusing on the parts that are stained or dirty. If the stains and dirt prove difficult to remove, occasional use of a mild soap is acceptable. Rinse the boots off with lukewarm water and allow to air dry before conditioning.
What constitutes a mild soap? Any soap that is free of harsh chemicals, strong detergents, or heavy fragrances. These things can lead to a breakdown of the GORE-TEX® liner and can remove the natural oils from the leather. Soaps like Nikwax® Footwear Cleaning Gel and Ivory® Liquid Soap can be used without worry. Dish soap like Dawn® can strip the oils from leather, and saddle soaps can damage GORE-TEX® linings. If possible, simply using warm water will give the longest life to the materials in your boots.
Conditioning Your Boots
Keeping your boots in good condition is essential for getting the most out of the product. Leather is a natural material and can become dry if left uncared for, which can cause a multitude of issues that will shorten the lifespan of the boots. We recommend treating our Nubuck and full grain leather models with the CRISPI® Waterproofing Cream, and using the CRISPI® Waterproofing Spray for synthetic and suede models. Using any animal-based products such as mink oil, bear fat, and beeswax, as well as any petroleum-based products can create a seal on the exterior of the leather. This would not allow moisture to escape from between the GORE-TEX® liner and the exterior leather which can hinder breathability and lead to premature rotting in the leather. Lack of care can accelerate many issues such as leather cracking, boot shrinkage, and stitching/rand failures. Any issue related to improper care for a boot is not covered under warranty.
Keep Your Boots Away From Heat Sources
When drying or storing your boots, avoid placing them near heat sources like fireplaces, heat vents, or direct sunlight. Excessive heat can dry out leather, leading to shrinkage, wrinkling, and cracking. This can cause other issues like separation of key components like rubber rands and soles.
If your boots get wet on the outside (which is perfectly normal!), let them air dry naturally. This helps prevent damage to the leather by avoiding the rapid evaporation of its natural oils, ensuring your boots remain in great shape and fit. To maintain their condition, apply a high-quality leather conditioner, especially one designed for GORE-TEX® membranes. Look for conditioners like CRISPI® Waterproofing Cream (for leathers), CRISPI® Waterproofing Spray (for synthetics), or products like Nikwax®, which hydrate the leather without risking damage or sealing it.
Storage
For optimal care, consider storing your boots in a cool, dry environment. Before tucking them away for an extended period, take the time to clean and condition them. Residual dirt and dust can draw essential oils from the leather, leading to dryness and potential damage over time. Using a boot tree or rolled up paper stuffed starting at the toe and throughout the boot will help maintain the boots shape while being stored. Use the CRISPI® Boot Bag to keep your boots protected while waiting for your next hunt.
