Whether you're mucking out before breakfast, walking the dog along a frosty lane, or heading to a country show in your smartest pair, footwear takes a daily battering from mud, damp and grit. Leather and technical uppers can crack, stiffen or lose their waterproofing if they're left to dry out unattended or cleaned the wrong way. A proper care routine protects your investment and keeps boots performing exactly as they should, whatever the day throws at them.
This guide will help you care for your Ariat Boots so they remain comfortable, durable and reliable in the outdoors. Below is a full, up-to-date care guide based on Ariat's own recommendations.
Cleaning Routine After a Hard Day
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Clean off dirt and mud. Use a soft brush or damp cloth to gently remove any dirt or mud from the boots. Avoid using tack soap, which can damage the leather.
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Condition the leather. Once the boots are clean and dry, apply a leather conditioner to restore moisture and keep the leather supple. Conditioning also helps prevent cracks to prolong the life of your boots.
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Polish and buff. Apply a boot polish that matches the leather colour with a cloth. Then, buff with a brush or clean cloth for a smooth, polished finish.
- Protect from water and stains. Finish by applying a water and stain protectant designed for leather footwear. This extra layer of protection helps shield your boots from harsh weather and everyday wear.
Drying Properly
Never dry boots next to a direct heat source such as an Aga, radiator or fire. Rapid drying causes leather to crack and seams to weaken. Instead, remove insoles if possible, stuff boots with newspaper to draw out moisture, and leave them somewhere well ventilated at room temperature overnight.
Conditioning and Waterproofing
- Apply a suitable leather conditioner every few weeks during heavy use to keep the material supple and prevent cracking.
- Reapply a waterproofing treatment regularly, especially before the wetter months, to maintain protection against rain and mud.
- Check stitching and soles periodically for early signs of wear, so small issues can be addressed before they become bigger problems.
- Store boots upright with proper support, such as boot trees or rolled towels, to help them keep their shape between wears.
Everyday Habits That Help
Rotating between two pairs, rather than wearing one pair daily, gives boots time to fully dry and recover between uses. This simple habit alone can significantly extend the working life of any pair of boots, whatever the setting or job at hand.
Looking after your footwear properly means fewer replacements and more reliable performance, whether you're working the land, out on trades jobs, or enjoying the countryside at the weekend. For more options built to handle life outdoors, explore our range of country and workwear boots.
NOTE: These tips are general advice only - every item is a bit different. ArdMoor can’t take responsibility for any mishaps, so always patch-test products first and follow Ariat's own care guidance where you can.