care
Shoe care goes beyond simple maintenance—it is a way of honoring craftsmanship and the steps each pair accompanies.
Taking the time to brush away dust and polish the leather can become a meaningful ritual. To enjoy your footwear for years to come, regular care is essential. Explore detailed care guides for each product through videos.
The upper is made of vegetable-tanned Italian full-grain buffalo leather, characterized by its naturally rough texture. The entire shoe undergoes a stonewashing process—tumbled in a drum with stones—to enhance durability, strength, and flexibility.
The outsole is crafted from Italian vegetable-tanned cowhide, treated with natural extracts from tree bark, chestnuts, and various plants—free from heavy metals or toxic substances.
- Remove the shoelaces and insert shoe trees.
- Use a horsehair brush to remove dust and dirt from the entire surface.
- Wrap a dry cloth around your hand, apply a small amount of leather cleaner*, and wipe the leather. Let it air-dry for about one minute.
*Recommended Product: Boot Black Two Face Lotion - Apply a small amount of shoe cream* with your fingertip. Dab it onto the surface and spread it evenly.
*Recommended Product: Boot Black Shoe Cream (Color: Black/Brown)
*Note: Work quickly to ensure even absorption; otherwise, excess oils or pigments may sit on the surface, creating an uneven finish. - Use a shoe polish dauber to apply shoe cream between the welt seams.
- Before the cream dries, lightly brush the leather with a pig bristle brush to aid absorption.
- Wrap a dry cloth around your hand and gently rub any areas where the cream hasn't fully absorbed.
- Use a polishing cloth (flannel) to buff the surface, ensuring no sticky or dry residues remain.
- Check the overall condition, then finish by using a horsehair brush to remove any remaining dust.
- If maintenance for the sole is needed, refer to "leather outsole" care instructions.
Cleaning is an essential step before applying shoe polish but can be simplified for light care. For light care, apply a small amount of cleaner* to a cloth and gently wipe the leather for even absorption.
*Recommended Products: Boot Black Two Face Lotion / Saphir Stain Remover / Saphir Universal Cream / Collonil Mild Cleaner / Collonil 1909 Premium Leather Lotion
*Note: As the upper is made from vegetable-tanned leather, avoid using shampoo-based cleaners (e.g. saddle soap), as they are not recommended.
do’s
- Use a shoehorn when putting on your shoes to help maintain their shape.
- Rotate your shoes instead of wearing the same pair daily to reduce excessive wear.
- Brush off dust with a horsehair brush before and after wearing to prevent mold and bacteria, and to preserve the suede’s texture and luster.
- Store shoes with wooden shoe trees to absorb moisture and prevent the leather from deteriorating due to deep creases.
- Place moisture absorbers in your shoe cabinet to prevent humidity buildup.
don’ts
- Avoid wearing shoes in rain or snow. If they get wet, wipe them with a dry cloth, brush with a horsehair brush, and store them with moisture absorbers before starting your shoe care routine. Proper cleaning and conditioning will help restore the leather grain.
- Use waterproof sprays with caution, as they may diminish suede’s natural luster.
- Avoid storing shoes with laces tied, as this can leave permanent marks and deform the leather.
- Do not store shoes in direct sunlight, as heat and UV rays can disrupt the leather’s natural moisture and oil balance, causing cracking and discoloration.
The upper is made from full-grain box calf leather from Tannerie d’Annonay’s Vocalou selection, renowned for its fine grain and durability. Chrome-tanned and finished with a semi-aniline process, this leather develops a subtle sheen while preserving its natural texture.
The outsole is made of vegetable-tanned Italian cowhide leather, oiled for added durability.
- Insert shoe trees.
- use a horsehair brush to remove dust and dirt from the entire surface.
- Wrap a dry cloth around your hand, apply a small amount of leather cleaner*, and wipe the leather. Let it air dry for about one minute.
*Recommended Product: Boot Black Two Face Lotion - Apply a small amount of shoe cream* with your fingertip. Dab it onto the surface and spread it evenly.
*Recommended Product: Boot Black Shoe Cream / Color - Black
*Note: Work quickly to ensure even absorption; otherwise, excess oils or pigments may sit on the surface, creating an uneven finish. - Use a shoe polish dauber to apply shoe cream between the welt seams.
- Before the cream dries, lightly brush the leather with a pig bristle brush to aid absorption.
- Wrap a dry cloth around your hand and gently rub any areas where the cream hasn't fully absorbed.
- Use a polishing cloth (flannel) to buff the surface, ensuring no sticky or dry residues remain.
- Check the overall condition, then finish by using a horsehair brush to remove any remaining dust.
- If maintenance for the sole is needed, refer to "leather outsole" care instructions.
Cleaning is an essential step before applying shoe polish but can be simplified for light care. For light care, apply a small amount of cleaner* to a cloth and gently wipe the leather for even absorption.
*Recommended Products: Boot Black Two Face Lotion / Saphir Stain Remover / Saphir Universal Cream / Collonil Mild Cleaner / Collonil 1909 Premium Leather Lotion
*Note: As the upper is made from vegetable-tanned leather, avoid using shampoo-based cleaners (e.g. saddle soap), as they are not recommended.
do’s
- Use a shoehorn when putting on your shoes to help maintain their shape.
- Rotate your shoes instead of wearing the same pair daily to reduce excessive wear.
- Brush off dust with a horsehair brush before and after wearing to prevent mold and bacteria, and to preserve the suede’s texture and luster.
- Store shoes with wooden shoe trees to absorb moisture and prevent the leather from deteriorating due to deep creases.
- Place moisture absorbers in your shoe cabinet to prevent humidity buildup.
don’ts
- Avoid wearing shoes in rain or snow. If they get wet, wipe them with a dry cloth, brush with a horsehair brush, and store them with moisture absorbers before starting your shoe care routine. Proper cleaning and conditioning will help restore the leather grain.
- Use waterproof sprays with caution, as they may diminish suede’s natural luster.
- Avoid storing shoes with laces tied, as this can leave permanent marks and deform the leather.
- Do not store shoes in direct sunlight, as heat and UV rays can disrupt the leather’s natural moisture and oil balance, causing cracking and discoloration.
The upper is crafted from Italian full-grain cowhide, chrome-tanned and finished with aniline dyeing. This process allows the dye to penetrate deeply while preserving the leather’s natural grain, wrinkles, and scars. Without a lining, the suede retains its natural softness and flexibility.
The entire shoe undergoes a stonewashing process—tumbled in a drum with stones—to enhance durability, strength, and flexibility.
The outsole is made from vegetable-tanned Italian cowhide leather, oiled for added durability.
- Insert shoe trees.
- Use a horsehair brush to remove dust and dirt from the entire surface.
- For stains, gently rub a suede eraser* over the affected area until eraser and leather particles appear.
*Recommended Product: colonil nubuck box - Brush away any residue with a horsehair brush.
- Restore the suede texture using a crepe brush or brass brush.
- If maintenance for the sole is needed, refer to "leather outsole" care instructions.
- Insert shoe trees.
- Brush off dust with a horsehair brush.
- Mix suede cleaner* with water in a 50:50 or 60:40 ratio.
*Recommended Products : Saphir Omnidaim Suede Cleaner - Dip an applicator brush (or a nylon toothbrush/cleaning brush) into the solution and gently scrub the suede until foam forms and stains lift. Clean the outsole as well.
*Note: Avoid applying excessive pressure, as it may reduce the suede’s softness. However, this will not affect the shape or durability of the boots. - Once the foam disappears, let them air-dry in a cool, shaded area for at least six hours.
*Note: Avoid direct sunlight, as it can dry out the leather and cause discoloration. Store in a well-ventilated, dry space. - Once completely dry, restore the suede texture using a crepe brush or brass brush.
- As a final step, optionally apply waterproof* or suede renovator spray.
*Recommended Products : Saphir water & stains protector
*Note: Cleaning may darken the leather or restore its original suede shade, resulting in slight color variations. This is a natural characteristic of suede and does not indicate damage, as long as the suede surface remains intact.
do’s
- Use a shoehorn when putting on your shoes to help maintain their shape.
- Rotate your shoes instead of wearing the same pair daily to reduce excessive wear.
- Brush off dust with a horsehair brush before and after wearing to prevent mold and bacteria, and to preserve the suede’s texture and luster.
- Store shoes with wooden shoe trees to absorb moisture and prevent the leather from deteriorating due to deep creases.
- Place moisture absorbers in your shoe cabinet to prevent humidity buildup.
- Apply waterproof* or renovator spray once a month to prevent discoloration. During rainy seasons, apply before wearing.
*Recommended Products : Saphir water & stains protector
don’ts
- Avoid wearing shoes in rain or snow. If they get wet, wipe them with a dry cloth, brush with a horsehair brush, and store them with moisture absorbers before starting your shoe care routine. Proper cleaning and conditioning will help restore the leather grain.
- Keep shoes away from food and colored liquids. Suede is made from the underside (split) of the hide, which absorbs moisture and dries quickly. If stains occur, prompt cleaning often restores the suede’s appearance.
- Do not store shoes in direct sunlight, as heat and UV rays can disrupt the leather’s natural moisture and oil balance, causing cracking and discoloration.
The upper is made from vegetable-tanned Italian full-grain buffalo leather, featuring a naturally rough texture with a polished shine from a brushed finish. A minimal upper cut design allows the leather to develop natural creases, adapting to the wearer’s foot over time. The entire shoe undergoes a stonewashing process—tumbled in a drum with stones—to enhance durability, strength, and flexibility.
The outsole is crafted from Italian vegetable-tanned cowhide, processed using natural extracts from tree bark, chestnuts, and various plants—completely free from heavy metals and toxic substances. It is reinforced with a Vibram rubber sole for improved durability.
- Insert shoe trees and zip up the boots.
- Use a horsehair brush to remove dust and dirt from the entire surface.
- Wrap a dry cloth around your hand, apply a small amount of leather cleaner*, and wipe the leather. Let it air dry for about one minute.
*Recommended Product: Boot Black Two Face Lotion - Apply a small amount of shoe cream* with your fingertip. Dab it onto the surface and spread it evenly.
*Recommended Product: Boot Black Shoe Cream / Color - Black
*Note: Work quickly to ensure even absorption; otherwise, excess oils or pigments may sit on the surface, creating an uneven finish. - Use a shoe polish dauber to apply shoe cream between the welt seams.
- Before the cream dries, lightly brush the leather with a pig bristle brush to aid absorption.
- Wrap a dry cloth around your hand and gently rub any areas where the cream hasn't fully absorbed.
- Use a polishing cloth (flannel) to buff the surface, ensuring no sticky or dry residues remain.
- Check the overall condition, then finish by using a horsehair brush to remove any remaining dust.
Cleaning is an essential step before applying shoe polish but can be simplified for light care. For light care, apply a small amount of cleaner* to a cloth and gently wipe the leather for even absorption.
*Recommended Products: Boot Black Two Face Lotion / Saphir Stain Remover / Saphir Universal Cream / Collonil Mild Cleaner / Collonil 1909 Premium Leather Lotion
*Note: As the upper is made from vegetable-tanned leather, avoid using shampoo-based cleaners (e.g. saddle soap), as they are not recommended.
do’s
- Rotate your shoes instead of wearing the same pair daily to reduce excessive wear.
- Brush off dust with a horsehair brush before and after wearing to prevent mold and bacteria, and to preserve the suede’s texture and luster.
- Store shoes with wooden shoe trees to absorb moisture and prevent the leather from deteriorating due to deep creases.
- Place moisture absorbers in your shoe cabinet to prevent humidity buildup.
don’ts
- Avoid wearing shoes in rain or snow. If they get wet, wipe them with a dry cloth, brush with a horsehair brush, and store them with moisture absorbers before starting your shoe care routine. Proper cleaning and conditioning will help restore the leather grain.
- Use waterproof sprays with caution, as they may diminish suede’s natural luster.
- Avoid storing shoes with laces tied, as this can leave permanent marks and deform the leather.
- Do not store shoes in direct sunlight, as heat and UV rays can disrupt the leather’s natural moisture and oil balance, causing cracking and discoloration.
The upper is made from chrome-tanned Italian suede cowhide. Unlike regular suede, it undergoes a specialized process that results in a shorter, more durable nap.
The outsole is crafted from Italian vegetable-tanned cowhide, processed using natural extracts from tree bark, chestnuts, and various plants—completely free from heavy metals and toxic substances. It is reinforced with a Vibram rubber sole for improved durability.
- Insert shoe trees and zip up the boots.
- Use a horsehair brush to remove dust and dirt from the entire surface.
- For stains, gently rub a suede eraser* over the affected area until eraser and leather particles appear.
*Recommended Product: colonil nubuck box - Brush away any residue with a horsehair brush.
- Restore the suede texture using a crepe brush or brass brush.
- Insert shoe trees and zip up the boots.
- Brush off dust with a horsehair brush.
- Mix suede cleaner* with water in a 50:50 or 60:40 ratio.
*Recommended Products : Saphir Omnidaim Suede Cleaner - Dip an applicator brush (or a nylon toothbrush/cleaning brush) into the solution and gently scrub the suede until foam forms and stains lift. Clean the outsole as well.
*Note: Avoid applying excessive pressure, as it may reduce the suede’s softness. However, this will not affect the shape or durability of the boots. - Once the foam disappears, let them air-dry in a cool, shaded area for at least six hours.
*Note: Avoid direct sunlight, as it can dry out the leather and cause discoloration. Store in a well-ventilated, dry space. - Once completely dry, restore the suede texture using a crepe brush or brass brush.
- As a final step, optionally apply waterproof* or suede renovator spray.
*Recommended Products : Saphir water & stains protector
*Note: Cleaning may darken the leather or restore its original suede shade, resulting in slight color variations. This is a natural characteristic of suede and does not indicate damage, as long as the suede surface remains intact.
do’s
- Rotate your shoes instead of wearing the same pair daily to reduce excessive wear.
- Brush off dust with a horsehair brush before and after wearing to prevent mold and bacteria, and to preserve the suede’s texture and luster.
- Store shoes with wooden shoe trees to absorb moisture and prevent the leather from deteriorating due to deep creases.
- Place moisture absorbers in your shoe cabinet to prevent humidity buildup.
- Apply waterproof* or renovator spray once a month to prevent discoloration. During rainy seasons, apply before wearing.
*Recommended Products : Saphir water & stains protector
don’ts
- Avoid wearing shoes in rain or snow. If they get wet, wipe them with a dry cloth, brush with a horsehair brush, and store them with moisture absorbers before starting your shoe care routine. Proper cleaning and conditioning will help restore the leather grain.
- Keep shoes away from food and colored liquids. Suede is made from the underside (split) of the hide, which absorbs moisture and dries quickly. If stains occur, prompt cleaning often restores the suede’s appearance.
- Do not store shoes in direct sunlight, as heat and UV rays can disrupt the leather’s natural moisture and oil balance, causing cracking and discoloration.
The upper features two distinct types of chrome-tanned Italian suede. The front suede is wax-coated for a smooth, sealed surface. The rear suede undergoes drum dyeing with a blend of oil and cream, followed by a wax coating. It is then soaked in water and wrung out, yielding a suede that ages with the natural patina of life.
- Remove the shoelaces and insert shoe trees.
- Use a horsehair brush to remove dust and dirt from the entire surface.
- For stains, gently rub a suede eraser* over the affected area until eraser and leather particles appear.
*Recommended Product: colonil nubuck box - Brush away any residue with a horsehair brush.
- Restore the suede texture using a crepe brush or brass brush.
- Remove the shoelaces and insert shoe trees.
- Brush off dust with a horsehair brush.
- Mix suede cleaner* with water in a 50:50 or 60:40 ratio.
*Recommended Products: Saphir Omnidaim Suede Cleaner - Dip an applicator brush (or a nylon toothbrush/cleaning brush) into the solution and gently scrub the suede until foam forms and stains lift. Clean the outsole as well.
*Note: Avoid applying excessive pressure, as it may reduce the suede’s softness. However, this will not affect the shape or durability of the boots. - Once the foam disappears, let them air-dry in a cool, shaded area for at least six hours.
*Note: Avoid direct sunlight, as it can dry out the leather and cause discoloration. Store in a well-ventilated, dry space. - Once completely dry, restore the suede texture using a crepe brush or brass brush.
- As a final step, optionally apply waterproof* or renovator spray.
*Recommended Products: Saphir water & stains protector
*Note: Cleaning may darken the leather or restore its original suede shade, resulting in slight color variations. This is a natural characteristic of suede and does not indicate damage, as long as the suede surface remains intact.
do’s
- Use a shoehorn when putting on your shoes to help maintain their shape.
- Rotate your shoes instead of wearing the same pair daily to reduce excessive wear.
- Brush off dust with a horsehair brush before and after wearing to prevent mold and bacteria, and to preserve the suede’s texture and luster.
- Store shoes with wooden shoe trees to absorb moisture and prevent the leather from deteriorating due to deep creases.
- Place moisture absorbers in your shoe cabinet to prevent humidity buildup.
- Apply waterproof* or renovator spray once a month to prevent discoloration. During rainy seasons, apply before wearing.
*Recommended Products: Saphir water & stains protector
don’ts
- Avoid wearing shoes in rain or snow. If they get wet, wipe them with a dry cloth, brush with a horsehair brush, and store them with moisture absorbers before starting your shoe care routine. Proper cleaning and conditioning will help restore the leather grain.
- Keep shoes away from food and colored liquids. Suede is made from the underside (split) of the hide, which absorbs moisture and dries quickly. If stains occur, prompt cleaning often restores the suede’s appearance.
- Do not store shoes in direct sunlight, as heat and UV rays can disrupt the leather’s natural moisture and oil balance, causing cracking and discoloration.
The upper is made of vegetable-tanned Italian full-grain horse leather, finely sanded for a soft touch. A single round of stonewashing—where the entire shoe is tumbled in a drum with stones—enhances its durability, toughness, and flexibility.
Over time, the leather’s natural oils will rise to the surface, developing a rich patina with a subtle sheen.
- Insert shoe trees.
- Brush off dust and dirt with a horsehair brush.
- Rub a suede eraser* over stained areas until eraser and leather particles appear.
*Recommended Product: colonil nubuck box - Brush away any residue and smooth out the leather grain with a horsehair brush
*Note: Excessive cleaning may diminish the stonewashed texture and vintage details.
- Insert shoe trees.
- Brush off dust with a horsehair brush.
- Mix suede cleaner* with water in a 50:50 or 60:40 ratio.
*Recommended Products: Saphir Omnidaim Suede Cleaner - Dip an applicator brush (or a nylon toothbrush/cleaning brush) into the solution and gently scrub the suede until foam forms and stains lift. Clean the outsole as well.
*Note: Avoid applying excessive pressure, as it may reduce the suede’s softness. However, this will not affect the shape or durability of the boots. - Once the foam disappears, let them air-dry in a cool, shaded area for at least six hours.
*Note: Avoid direct sunlight, as it can dry out the leather and cause discoloration. Store in a well-ventilated, dry space. - Once completely dry, restore the suede texture using a crepe brush or brass brush.
- As a final step, optionally apply a waterproof spray*.
*Recommended Products: Saphir water & stains protector
*Note: Cleaning may darken the leather or restore its original suede shade, resulting in slight color variations. This is a natural characteristic of suede and does not indicate damage, as long as the suede surface remains intact.
do’s
- Use the grosgrain tab when putting on your shoes to help maintain their shape.
- Rotate your shoes instead of wearing the same pair daily to reduce excessive wear.
- Brush off dust with a horsehair brush before and after wearing to prevent mold and bacteria, and to preserve the suede’s texture and luster.
- Store shoes with wooden shoe trees to absorb moisture and prevent the leather from deteriorating due to deep creases.
- Place moisture absorbers in your shoe cabinet to prevent humidity buildup.
- Apply waterproof* or renovator spray once a month to prevent discoloration. During rainy seasons, apply before wearing.
*Recommended Products: Saphir water & stains protector
don’ts
- The horse leather used in the chelsea 02 upper is a sanded full-grain leather, similar to nubuck, which quickly absorbs oils. Shoe cream or delicate leather cream are not recommended, as they may alter the leather’s texture.
- Use a horsehair brush rather than a crepe or brass brush to maintain the suede’s natural grain.
- Avoid using suede renovator sprays.
Leather outsoles can absorb and release heat and moisture, offering excellent breathability and flexibility. They may initially feel firmer than rubber soles, but over time, they conform to the foot’s shape and become more comfortable with wear.
- Insert shoe trees.
- Brush off dust and dirt with a horsehair brush.
- Rub a suede eraser* over stained areas until eraser and leather particles appear.
*Recommended Product: colonil nubuck box - Brush away any residue and smooth out the leather grain with a horsehair brush
*Note: Excessive cleaning may diminish the stonewashed texture and vintage details.
do’s
- Regularly condition the leather outsole with a leather outsole oil or conditioner to prevent cracking and extend its lifespan.
- If the outsole starts to wear, have the shoes repaired or resoled depending on the extent of the wear.
dont’s
- Avoid wearing shoes in rain or snow. If they get wet, wipe them with a dry cloth, brush with a horsehair brush, and store them with moisture absorbers before starting your shoe care routine. Proper cleaning and conditioning will help restore the leather grain.