The boot care guide – How to take care for your leather riding boots

Great boots deserve great care. And it all starts from day one.

A great pair of riding boots deserves to be worn, enjoyed and cared for. Whether your boots are brand new, have accompanied you through countless hours in the saddle or are still on your wish list, knowing how to care for them makes all the difference. And here's something every rider should know: great boot care starts with small, everyday habits. The sooner you start, the better – but it's never too late to give your boots a little extra love. The good news? It doesn't have to be complicated. Let's show you how!

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THE 3 STEPS TO BEAUTIFULLY CARED-FOR RIDING BOOTS

CLEAN. CONDITION. POLISH.

Three simple steps to help keep your smooth leather riding boots looking their best. You don't need to complete all three after every ride. Daily cleaning is the most important habit, while conditioning and polishing give the leather extra care whenever it needs it. Do you have suede, patent leather or another special finish? Keep reading! We've included our best care tips for those materials, too.

STEP 1 – CLEAN: REMOVE THE DIRT BEFORE IT DOES DAMAGE

One minute of cleaning after every ride can make a bigger difference than one big polish once a year.

Arena sand, dust, mud and horse sweat are all part of everyday riding. But when left on your boots, dirt can collect in creases and seams, while sweat residue may gradually affect the leather's finish.

The solution? Clean your boots after every ride.

Here's how to clean your riding boots:

1. Remove loose dirt. Gently brush away sand, dust and dried mud with a soft brush or cloth.
2. Wipe them down. Use a soft, slightly damp cloth or our polishing sponge to remove everyday dirt and horse sweat. Pay extra attention to the foot, ankle, seams and areas where the leather bends.
3. Rinse when needed. For suitable smooth leather riding boots, a gentle rinse with cool or lukewarm water can help remove stubborn dirt. Use a soft water stream, avoid prolonged soaking and try not to let water enter the boots.
4. Tackle stubborn marks. If necessary, use a gentle cleaner specifically designed for smooth leather footwear.
5. Let them dry naturally. Wipe away excess water and allow your boots to dry slowly at room temperature before applying shoe cream.

DO YOU SHOWER YOUR BOOTS?

Don't be afraid of a little water!

Riding boots are made to be used, and sometimes a damp cloth simply isn't enough after a particularly muddy day at the stable. For smooth leather boots with a suitable finish, a gentle rinse is generally fine. What matters is avoiding unnecessary soaking and allowing the leather to dry properly afterwards. Water isn't necessarily your boots' worst enemy. Improper drying can be. Never use a radiator, hair dryer or direct heat to speed up the process.
Please note: These rinsing recommendations are for suitable smooth leather riding boots. Suede, nubuck, patent leather and delicate specialty finishes may require different care.

Our tip: Keep our polishing sponge in your grooming bag or tack locker. It's a handy little essential for making cleaning part of your everyday riding routine. Use a separate, clean sponge when applying shoe cream later.

STEP 2 – CONDITION: GIVE THE LEATHER SOME LOVE

Keep the leather soft, supple and beautiful.

Just like our skin, leather benefits from the right care to maintain its flexibility and appearance. That's where a good-quality shoe cream comes in. Unlike everyday cleaning, conditioning doesn't need to happen after every ride. Apply shoe cream when the leather begins to look dry or dull, or according to the manufacturer's recommendations.

Here's how to condition your riding boots:

1. Start with clean, dry boots. Make sure all dirt has been removed and the leather is completely dry.
2. Choose the right shoe cream. Select a product suitable for smooth leather, preferably in a colour that closely matches your boots.
3. Apply with a clean sponge. Use our polishing sponge, a suitable applicator or a soft cloth to spread a small amount of shoe cream evenly across the leather.
4. Work gently. Use small circular movements to distribute a thin, even layer.
5. Let it absorb. Follow the shoe cream's instructions before moving on to polishing.

WHY WE LOVE COLOURED SHOE CREAM

Our recommendation? Always keep a shoe cream in the same colour as your boots! A pigmented shoe cream doesn't just condition the leather. It can also refresh faded areas, make minor scuffs less noticeable and bring back the beautiful depth and richness of the original colour. A little goes a long way, so there's no need to overdo it.

DO NEW RIDING BOOTS NEED SHOE CREAM STRAIGHT AWAY?

Not necessarily! New riding boots are usually already finished and conditioned. Start with regular cleaning and proper storage, then introduce shoe cream when the leather needs it or according to the manufacturer's care instructions.

WHAT ABOUT SADDLE SOAP?

We sometimes get asked whether regular saddle care products can be used on riding boots. Our advice is to choose products made for fine leather footwear whenever possible. Saddle leather and boot leather can have different finishes, and traditional saddle soap isn't our first choice for regular boot care. Some gentle leather conditioners may work, but always check compatibility and test new products on a small, hidden area first. Certain products can darken the leather or change its finish.

Our tip: Unsure which shoe cream is right for your boots? Just ask us! We're happy to help you choose.

STEP 3 – POLISH: BRING BACK THAT BEAUTIFUL FINISH

The finishing touch that makes your boots shine.

Once the shoe cream has absorbed, it's time to bring out the beauty of the leather.

Here's how to polish your riding boots:

1. Choose your polishing tool. Use a clean, soft polishing cloth, a suitable buffing sponge or an ordinary nylon stocking for the finishing shine.
2. Buff gently. Work across the leather using light, quick movements.
3. Focus on the details. Pay extra attention to the toe and other visible areas.
4. Enjoy the result. Continue until you achieve an even finish and your desired level of shine.

Avoid excessive pressure or product buildup, particularly around seams and areas where the leather bends. Remember, not all leather is meant to have a high-gloss finish. Some of the most beautiful riding boots have a softer, more natural appearance.

WANT THAT SUPER SHINE? TRY THIS OLD-SCHOOL TRICK! ✨

Here's one of our favourite polishing secrets! Take a clean, ordinary nylon stocking (yes, a pair of tights!) and gently buff your boots after the shoe cream has absorbed. The fine nylon fabric helps bring out an incredible, high-gloss shine on suitable smooth leather. No extra products needed!

Our tip: Keep an old pair of clean nylon tights in your boot care kit. Sometimes the simplest tricks give the most amazing results!

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HOW TO CARE FOR DIFFERENT LEATHERS & FINISHES

Not all riding boots are created equal – and not all materials should be treated the same way.

Our three basic steps Clean. Condition. Polish. are primarily intended for smooth leather riding boots. If your boots feature suede, polished leather, patent leather or other specialty finishes, a slightly different approach will help keep them looking their best.

SUEDE

Suede has a beautifully soft, velvety finish that adds a touch of understated luxury to your riding boots. But unlike smooth leather, suede needs a gentler approach. Use a soft suede brush to remove dirt and restore the natural texture. Allow muddy marks to dry before carefully brushing them away. For more stubborn stains, use a cleaner specifically designed for suede. A suitable suede protector spray can also help protect the material from moisture and stains.
Avoid: Regular shoe cream, leather grease and aggressive brushing. These can flatten the texture, leave marks or change the appearance of the suede.

POLISHED LEATHER

Polished leather has a beautiful, glossy finish that is different from patent leather. Gently wipe away dirt with a soft, slightly damp cloth. If needed, use a shoe cream that is compatible with the leather's specific finish. Buff carefully with a soft cloth to bring out its natural shine.
Avoid: Harsh cleaners, stiff brushes and products that may dull or alter the polished surface.

PATENT LEATHER

Patent leather is all about that gorgeous, mirror-like shine! Its glossy coating makes it different from traditional smooth leather, which means it also needs different care. Gently wipe the surface with a soft, slightly damp cloth to remove dust and dirt. If needed, use a product specifically designed for patent leather to help maintain its glossy appearance.
Avoid: Regular shoe cream, leather grease and abrasive sponges that could scratch or damage the coating.

CROCO PATENT LEATHER

Croco patent combines a glossy patent finish with an embossed crocodile-inspired pattern – a real statement material! Clean gently with a soft cloth, paying a little extra attention to the textured pattern where dust and dirt can collect. If needed, choose a product specifically suitable for patent leather.
Avoid: Stiff brushes, regular shoe cream and aggressive rubbing across the embossed surface.

GLITTER & SPARKLING FINISHES

A little sparkle can make a big statement! Glitter and other sparkling finishes look fabulous, but their decorative surfaces may be sensitive to friction and unsuitable cleaning products. Gently remove dust using a very soft, dry cloth. If the material's care instructions allow it, a slightly damp cloth may be used with extra care.
Avoid: Shoe cream, stiff brushes, vigorous rubbing and cleaning products that could damage or loosen the glitter coating.

NOT SURE HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR BOOTS?

Different leathers and finishes may require different products and techniques. Always follow the manufacturer's care recommendations and test any new product on a small, hidden area first.
And if you're unsure, just ask us! We're always happy to help you find the right care routine for your riding boots.

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CEDAR SHOE TREES – THE SECRET TO KEEPING THEIR SHAPE

If there's one boot care investment we'd recommend from day one, it's a good pair of cedar shoe trees. Here's why. Your feet naturally release moisture throughout the day. And when you ride, your boots bend repeatedly across the toe and instep. Those little creases are completely normal. Leather is meant to move with you. But when boots are left without support, particularly while the leather is still slightly damp inside, those folds can become deeper and more pronounced. Over time, repeated bending along deep creases may contribute to premature wear and, in some cases, cracking.

WHY WE RECOMMEND CEDAR SHOE TREES

Cedar shoe trees do more than simply fill the space inside your boots.

They help:

• Absorb residual moisture. Cedar can help manage moisture inside the foot area.
• Maintain the shape. Gentle support helps the toe and instep retain their intended form.
• Reduce pronounced creasing. Supporting the leather while your boots rest can help prevent folds from setting as deeply.
• Keep your boots fresher. Cedar is a practical choice for everyday footwear care.

The key is choosing a pair that fits properly. Shoe trees should support the leather, not stretch it. If your boots are soaked, let excess moisture dissipate first before inserting the shoe trees.
Our advice? Invest in cedar shoe trees when you buy your boots, not when the creases have already appeared.

AND DON'T FORGET THE SHAFTS!

Tall riding boots need support above the ankle, too. Boot shapers help keep the shafts upright and prevent the leather from collapsing into unwanted folds during storage. Cedar shoe trees for the feet. Boot shapers for the shafts. A great combination.

ZIPPER CARE – DON'T FORGET THE LITTLE DETAILS

A zipper deserves some love, too. Sand, horsehair and dirt can easily collect around the zippers of your riding boots. Over time, this can make them harder to use and increase unnecessary wear. Keep the zipper teeth clean with a soft brush and always open the zipper completely before putting your boots on or taking them off. And never force a zipper that doesn't want to close. If you feel resistance, stop and check what's causing it. Sometimes it's simply trapped fabric or dirt. Other times, the boot may be under too much tension. If needed, use a zipper lubricant suitable for the zipper and surrounding materials, following the product instructions.
Our tip: A clean zipper and a little patience are much better than an expensive repair.

DRYING, RESTING & STORAGE – GIVE YOUR BOOTS A BREAK

Even your favourite riding boots need a day off! Your feet naturally release moisture throughout the day, and riding boots can become surprisingly damp inside, even when they feel dry on the outside. Leather needs time to release that moisture between rides. Giving your boots time to air out helps reduce repeated moisture exposure and keeps the materials in better condition.

WET BOOTS? HERE'S HOW TO DRY THEM PROPERLY.

Water isn't necessarily your boots' worst enemy. Improper drying can be.

Whether you've been caught in the rain, ridden through muddy conditions or given your boots a gentle rinse, the key is to let them dry naturally.

1. Wipe away excess water. Use a soft cloth to remove surface moisture.
2. Remove the insoles if possible. This allows air to circulate and helps the inside dry more effectively.
3. Use absorbent paper if they're wet inside. Loosely fill the foot area with plain, unprinted paper to absorb excess moisture. Newspaper can also work, but be aware that the ink may transfer to light-coloured linings. Replace the paper when it becomes damp.
4. Let them dry slowly. Place your boots in a well-ventilated room at normal room temperature, away from direct sunlight and heat.
5. Support their shape. Once excess moisture has dissipated, insert your cedar shoe trees and use boot shapers to keep the shafts upright.

PLEASE DON'T PUT WET BOOTS NEXT TO A RADIATOR!

Excessive heat can dry out the leather, make it stiff and increase the risk of cracking. It can also affect adhesives and other materials. Avoid leaving your boots in direct sunlight for long periods, too. Sun exposure can fade the colour and affect the leather's finish.

EVERY RIDER NEEDS A BOOT COLLECTION!

Because even your favourite boots deserve a day off. If you ride frequently, having more than one pair of riding boots isn't just about having options (although we love that too!). Alternating between your boots gives each pair time to air out, release moisture and dry naturally between rides. This helps keep the leather in better condition and can extend the life of your boots. And let's be honest, having different boots for different moods, outfits and occasions is part of the fun!
Our advice? Build your boot collection, give each pair a little rest and enjoy them for many rides to come.

GIVE YOUR BOOTS A LITTLE MAKEOVER

Before you dream of a new pair, give your favourites a little attention. Over time, even beautiful riding boots can start to look a little tired. But sometimes a thorough clean, the right shoe cream and a gentle polish are all they need to look refreshed. Replace worn laces, clean the zippers and check that your shoe trees and boot shapers are doing their job. Want to add a little personality? Try a new lace colour! It's an easy way to give your boots a fresh look without changing the pair you already love.
Good design never goes out of style. And good care helps keep it that way.

OUR BOOT CARE ESSENTIALS

You don't need a cupboard full of products. Just a few good ones.

SHOE CREAM – NOURISH & REFRESH

A suitable shoe cream helps keep smooth leather supple and can refresh its colour and finish.

POLISHING SPONGE – YOUR EVERYDAY BOOT CARE COMPANION

One little sponge, so many uses! Perfect for wiping away everyday dirt and applying shoe cream, making your boot care routine quick and easy. Use a clean sponge for each task to avoid transferring dirt onto freshly cleaned leather.

CEDAR SHOE TREES – SUPPORT & PROTECT

One of our favourite investments for keeping the foot area in good shape and managing residual moisture.

BOOT LACES – A LITTLE CHANGE, A BIG DIFFERENCE

Replace worn laces or choose a new colour that feels more like you.

SHOP OUR BOOT CARE ESSENTIALS →

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BOOT CARE DO'S & DON'TS

Sometimes it's the little things that make the biggest difference.

✔️ DO

• Start caring for your boots from day one. Prevention is easier than repairing damage.
• Clean your boots after every ride. Remove dirt, dust and horse sweat before it builds up.
• Use a suitable shoe cream. Keep smooth leather conditioned and looking its best.
• Invest in cedar shoe trees. Support the shape of the foot and help manage residual moisture.
• Use boot shapers. Keep tall shafts upright when you're not wearing them.
• Let wet boots dry naturally. Room temperature and good ventilation are your friends.
• Use absorbent paper when needed. Help draw excess moisture from the inside of wet boots.
• Keep your zippers clean. A quick brush can prevent unnecessary wear.
• Give your boots time to air out. Especially after long or sweaty riding sessions.
• Choose products for your specific material. Suede, polished leather, patent and glitter finishes each need their own care routine.
• Build your boot collection! Alternating between pairs gives your boots time to rest.

❌ DON'T

• Don't wait until your boots look worn before caring for them. Good habits start with new boots.
• Don't leave your boots without proper support. Deep folds can become more pronounced over time.
• Don't leave them in direct sunlight. UV exposure can fade the colour and affect the leather's finish.
• Don't dry them beside a radiator or heater. Excessive heat can dry out and damage the leather.
• Don't soak your boots unnecessarily. A gentle rinse is different from prolonged exposure to water.
• Don't use traditional saddle soap as your regular boot care product. Choose products suitable for footwear leather.
• Don't store your boots wet. Trapped moisture can lead to odours and material damage.
• Don't force your zippers. Always check for dirt or tension first.
• Don't apply regular shoe cream to suede, patent leather or glitter finishes. Products intended for smooth leather may damage these surfaces.

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MAKE BOOT CARE PART OF YOUR DAILY RIDING ROUTINE

Great boots deserve great care. And it all starts with a few good habits. The secret to keeping your riding boots beautiful isn't polishing them once a year. It's the little things you do every day. Take a minute to wipe them down after each ride. Keep your zippers clean, let the leather breathe and give your boots the support they need with cedar shoe trees and boot shapers. Then, whenever your smooth leather boots need a little extra love, remember your three steps:

Clean. Condition. Polish.

For suede, patent leather and special finishes, follow the material-specific care tips above. Whether your boots are brand new or have been your favourites for years, it's never too early, or too late, to start taking better care of them. So, why not start your own daily boot care routine today?

Your boots will thank you for it!

QUESTIONS ABOUT YOUR BOOTS? WE'RE HERE TO HELP!

Not sure which shoe cream to use? Wondering how to care for a particular leather finish? Or simply need a little advice? We're always happy to help! Chat with us here on our website or send us an email. We'd love to hear from you.

Great boots. Great habits. Many happy rides to come.

Amazona Sueca – Boots & Beyond.