[SwampRat1]

LaRemnant and I were talking about boot protection. Thought I would post here and see what other's use. Some newer boots come pre-treated and say not to use anything on the leather. Not real sure how to take that but so far have not had problems with those boots. I have used sno-seal in the past. it is derived of beeswax. Not only does it condition the leather but waterproofs it as well. I just heat the leather a bit with a hair dryer and rub it in. once it is dried i wipe of the excess with a soft cloth. I have heard back in the old days, that hunters and trappers and such would rub the fat from their kill into their boots. Never tried this myself, not sure how it would smell after a while. but i guess if you live your life in the mountains living the way several of us would like to, your probly not to worried about the smell of your boots. Wonder if it helps cover the human scent? hmmm, experiment's anyone?

[Camdor]

Originally Posted by SwampRat1

LaRemnant and I were talking about boot protection. Thought I would post here and see what other's use. Some newer boots come pre-treated and say not to use anything on the leather. Not real sure how to take that but so far have not had problems with those boots. I have used sno-seal in the past. it is derived of beeswax. Not only does it condition the leather but waterproofs it as well. I just heat the leather a bit with a hair dryer and rub it in. once it is dried i wipe of the excess with a soft cloth. I have heard back in the old days, that hunters and trappers and such would rub the fat from their kill into their boots. Never tried this myself, not sure how it would smell after a while. but i guess if you live your life in the mountains living the way several of us would like to, your probly not to worried about the smell of your boots. Wonder if it helps cover the human scent? hmmm, experiment's anyone?

I, too, usually use either bee's wax or paraffin and allow it to soak into the leather. I have heard of people using shortening and fat.


As far as using fat, I would imagine that it could attract predators but I've never done it so that is pure speculation on my part.

[Rayzerm]

For my Full leather boots, I use beeswax, rubbed in with my fingers. The heat from the fingers warms the wax and helps absorbition.

I also find the whole waxing thing calming....

[ozarks dave]

i use mink oil. conditions(softens) waterproofs and smooths leather.
great stuff, i set my boot in front of a space heater til its warm enough to soak up the mink oil. always worked good for me.

[AlpineZone]

I use nikwax leather treatment/conditioner and nikwax cordura treatment. I find the leather takes it real well, not goopy and is super waterproof while still allowing good breathability.

First I take and wash my boots with a combination of dawn/water in the bathtub or the garden hose and use a medium bristle brush to go over them lightly removing dirt/debri. Then rinse them off and treat them, wiping off excess. Let dry for 24 hours and then walk around in them for a little bit, then treat them again, wiping off excess. Letting dry 24 hours once again. I've also used AquaSeal with good results but I like nikwax better.

FYI: Most boot manufacturers say never use animal fat on your boots especially if they use goretex because it will keep the gore membrane from breathing properly. Also any chemicals or harsh abrasives to clean them because of the same reason and can be damaging on the membrane.

[Screaming Eagle]

I've always used saddle soap to clean them and soften the leather up. Then follow up with a coat of mink oil to seal them. I also put the mink oil on seams etc and work it down into cracks to keep the leather soft and conditioned. I also try to let them sit for a few days to really soak the soap and mink oil in. I don't have to worry so much about snow as water and mud.

What kind of container does beeswax come in? Where is it usually available?

[Dick]

I use dubbin, it consists of natural wax, oil and tallow. I lay it on thick and let it sit for a day or two. What doesn’t absorb into the leather gets wiped off with a cloth.

I use it on footwear and gloves. It’s a little sticky at first, but doesn’t seem to last long.

[Celticwarrior]

Originally Posted by AlpineZone

I use nikwax leather treatment/conditioner and nikwax cordura treatment. I find the leather takes it real well, not goopy and is super waterproof while still allowing good breathability.

I use nikwax too. Good product. Really waterproof.Good call Alpine.

[JOHN LEE PETTIMORE]

I have used alot of stuff but for me saddle soap and then mink oil works the best on my boots
JOHN LEE PETTIMORE

[snowshoe67]

I use a good mink oil two coats.,and let dry well ! Like to hear other idea's too!