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Footwear care

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Guide

Footwear care

Brushes, cleaners and proofing products do different jobs. Identify your footwear's outer material first, then choose suitable care, including for shoes with a membrane underneath.

Key points

  • Remove dirt with a brush and suitable cleaner before applying care.
  • Wax can darken suede and flatten its raised finish.
  • Use a suitable combined treatment for fabric and leather uppers.

Which care for which upper?

UseChooseBear in mind
Smooth leatherChooseApproved wax or creamBear in mindApply sparingly and work carefully around seams and flex points.
Nubuck and suedeChooseSuede careBear in mindWax changes the nap; choose suitable proofing to keep a raised finish.
Fabric and leatherChooseCare for mixed uppersBear in mindA product suited to both materials helps you treat the whole upper evenly.

What to look for

QuestionIn briefWhy
Clean or reproof?In briefClean firstWhyTreatment spreads unevenly over dirt. Follow the bottle's instructions for use on wet or dry footwear.
Which colour?In briefNeutral or matchingWhyColoured cream can change pale stitching and fabric panels. Try it in a hidden area first.
How should shoes dry?In briefNaturally in the airWhyRemove the footbeds and keep footwear away from radiators. Strong direct heat can damage leather and glued joins.

Common questions

Do membrane shoes need leather care?

Yes, if the outer is leather. The membrane sits underneath, while the leather still faces dirt, moisture and repeated flexing. Choose care recommended by the footwear manufacturer for that particular construction.

Can wax change the appearance?

Wax can darken leather and smooth the nap on suede. To retain the original finish, use a product designed for that material and try it on a hidden area first. Colourless treatment can still alter the appearance.

When should I reproof footwear?

Clean it when dirt interferes with water beading. If the clean outer still absorbs water quickly, renew the suitable proofing treatment as instructed. Conditioning leather and adding water repellency may be separate steps.

What should I use on muddy soles?

Loosen heavy dirt with an appropriate brush and water without soaking the upper unnecessarily. Use a suitable cleaner on leather or fabric. Leave the footwear open to air dry before putting it away.

Last updated: November 2026

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