Quality western boots can last decades with a little care. Here’s how to keep your leather looking great and your boots lasting longer.
Clean off dust and dirt
Wipe boots with a soft, slightly damp cloth after wear to remove dust before it works into the leather. For caked mud, let it dry, then brush it off with a horsehair brush.
Condition regularly
Leather is skin — it dries out and cracks without moisture. Apply a leather conditioner every few weeks (more often in dry climates) to keep it supple. Test on a hidden spot first, as conditioners can slightly darken leather.
Protect before you wear
A water-repellent spray made for leather guards against rain and stains. Reapply periodically, especially before wet-weather wear.
Store them right
Use boot trees or roll up a magazine inside the shafts to keep tall boots upright and prevent creasing. Store in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight, which fades and dries leather.
Dry naturally
If boots get wet, stuff them with newspaper and air-dry at room temperature. Never use a heater, hair dryer, or direct sun — fast heat cracks leather.
Browse our women’s and men’s western boots, and get the perfect fit with our Boot Fit & Sizing Guide.