Caring for Ariat Boots
How do I look after my Ariat Western Boots?
Taking proper care of your Ariat leather boots will extend their life and keep them looking and performing their best, no matter the environment. Leather is a natural material that needs regular attention to remain durable and comfortable.
Here’s how to clean, condition, and waterproof your boots, as well as tips on caring for different types of leather.
Cleaning Your Ariat Boots
- Remove dirt and debris: Use a soft brush or cloth to remove dirt and mud from your boots after each use. This prevents dirt from embedding into the leather over time.
- For smooth leather: Wipe the boots down with a damp cloth, then apply a leather cleaner. Be sure to use a product designed for smooth leather. Avoid using household cleaners that can dry out or damage the leather.
- For distressed leather: You’ll need a gentler approach. Use a soft, dry brush to remove dust and grime, but avoid over-saturating the leather with water. A leather conditioner made for distressed leather can help maintain its unique look while providing moisture.
- For suede: Suede requires special care. Use a suede brush to lift away dirt and stains, but do not use water, as it can stain the material. For tougher stains, use a suede cleaner, being mindful to follow the product’s instructions carefully.
Conditioning Your Boots
Leather needs moisture to remain flexible. Without conditioning, the leather can crack or become stiff. Use a high-quality leather conditioner that matches the type of leather on your boots.
- Apply the conditioner evenly across the surface with a cloth or sponge. Be sure to work it into the seams and stitching. Conditioning helps the leather retain its natural oils and flexibility.
- Allow the conditioner to absorb into the boots for a few hours, and then wipe off any excess.
Distressed leather will absorb more conditioner than smooth leather, so you may need to apply it more often. Only ever use a distressed leather conditioner such as Fiebings leather conditioner. Never use a waxy conditioner as this will leave you with patchy boots with some shiny parts and some still looking very distressed...not a good look.
Suede boots do not require conditioning, but you can use a suede protector to maintain their texture and appearance.
Waterproofing Your Boots
To protect your boots from moisture, use a waterproofing spray such as Waproo Spray or Blundstone waterproofer, specifically designed for leather. For suede and distressed leather, choose a product that is safe for these materials, as regular sprays can ruin their finish. Waterproofing your boots regularly will help keep water from soaking into the leather, preventing stains and damage. NB Always test spot first in an inconspicuous spot on the boot to see how the spray will react with the boot. Most waterproof sprays will make the leather darker
Avoid Force Drying Your Boots
If your boots get wet, it’s important not to force dry them by placing them near a heat source like a heater or a fire. Heat causes the leather to dry too quickly, leading to cracking and stiffness. Instead, stuff your boots with newspaper and let them dry naturally in a cool, dry place. This allows the leather to dry slowly, retaining its flexibility.
Key Tips to Remember
- Use leather-specific cleaners and conditioners.
- Brush dirt off regularly to prevent buildup.
- Condition regularly to maintain flexibility.
- Avoid water and heat exposure when possible.
- Never force dry wet boots—let them air dry naturally.
By following these steps, you’ll keep your Ariat leather boots looking great and functioning well for years to come.
Need help with Ariat Boot Sizing? Check out our Ariat Size Guide for some handy hints in fitting your boots.