How to maintain your Dolomite leather shoes?

How to maintain and clean your full-grain leather shoes

Shoes, Dolomite especially in full-grain leather, are our essential allies during our daily adventures, whether hiking in the mountains or strolling in the city. They endure all sorts of conditions, and it's not uncommon to take them off at the end of the day, covered in mud or dust, before storing them carelessly. However, regular maintenance is key to prolonging their lifespan and preserving their functional qualities. So, how do you maintain them properly?

Here are the essential steps for effective cleaning and maintenance of your full-grain leather shoes.

Step 1: Preparation

Before starting the cleaning, a few preparatory steps are necessary, regardless of the type of shoes:

1. Air dry the shoes: After use, let your shoes dry in the open air, avoiding direct exposure to sunlight or heat sources (like a radiator). Excessive heat can dry out the leather, damage plastic materials, and affect the adhesives connecting the sole to the upper.
2. Remove laces and insoles: This allows for better ventilation inside the shoes and helps eliminate moisture. Also, check that the inner linings are not torn or worn, and inspect the condition of the laces.

Step 2: Cleaning

Full-grain leather is highly valued for its durability, resistance, and ability to adapt to the shape of the foot, providing optimal comfort. But it is also a living material that requires special care to prevent it from drying out, cracking, or losing its properties.

1. Brushing: Use a soft-bristled brush to remove dust and dry dirt from the surface of the shoes. If mud stains persist, slightly dampen the brush or, if possible, opt for a crepe brush, specially designed for leather.
2. Nourish the leather: Once the shoe is clean and dry, it is important to nourish the leather with a specific cream, such as Dolomite Cream. Apply it gently using a soft brush or a wool sock to hydrate and preserve the flexibility of the leather.

Note:

• Do not use an excessive amount of cream, as this could overly soften the upper and deform it.
• The application of certain products may slightly darken the natural color of the leather.

Before wearing your shoes again, let them rest for several hours to allow the products to be well absorbed. During this time, replace the insoles and laces after checking that they are dry.

Step 3: Maintenance

Some good practices to extend the life of your full-grain leather shoes:

• Storage: When not wearing them, remove the insoles and fill the inside of the shoes with newspaper, especially at the toe, to maintain their shape.
• Preservation: Store them in their original box, wrapped in tissue paper, and keep them away from direct light, humidity, and extreme temperature variations.

With these tips, you will extend the lifespan of your full-grain leather Dolomite shoes while maintaining their performance and comfort over time. Regular maintenance ensures your shoes are always ready for your next adventures, while respecting their natural elegance and robustness.