Friday 14 July 2017

A Guide to Looking After and Protecting Your Barbour Footwear


It is important to maintain and look after your kit, treat it well and it will serve you well.

By using the correct products and tools your Barbour footwear will stay serviceable, comfortable and smart for all occasions.  And by taking a little time and with the right maintenance there is no reason why it will not protect you against the weather and last many, many years.


POLISHING

Should your leather footwear become marked or scuffed it will require a cover up.  Use a matching colour or slightly darker boot polish.

Apply with a soft cloth and then leave to stand allowing the polish to be absorbed into the leather.

Then buff with a soft brush to create a shiny polished finish.  Finally wipe over with a plain shoe cloth.


SUEDE CLEANING

Suede uppers will need to be treated differently to polished leather shoes, polish will ruin the texture and surface.

Use a crepe eraser to rub away small scuffs and marks, then use a suede brush to restore the nap of the suede.

After cleaning a spray of 'Suede-Guard' will protect your footwear and provide a water resistant barrier.



LEATHER CONDITIONING

To keep your leather shoes tip top apply a conditioning creme with a soft cloth.

This will prevent your footwear from drying out or cracking and will help to maintain the original finish.


ROTATION

We recommend that although you may want to wear your Barbour's every day, they, like your feet, need a rest now and again.

Alternating between at least 3 pairs of shoes a week is a great way of allowing your shoes to recover, dry out and will increase their life span.



SHOE TREES

Using a shoe tree when your favourite Barbour footwear are off your feet will help maintain their shape and ensure they look as good as the day you bought them.

Another top tip is to stuff your shoes with old newspaper if they become wet.  This will help draw out the moisture naturally and ensure the leather does not crack.

NEVER place them in front of a fire or direct heat but allow to dry slowly.


WELLINGTONS



Always wipe off mud and dirt with a damp cloth and allow to dry naturally.  Never clean with solvents or detergents.

Store in a cool dry place and avoid exposure to direct sunlight and heat.  We recommend that you don't leave your Barbour wellingtons on car seats, near windows, radiators or open fires and they should not be folded, creased or left with the tops turned down.

As the sole becomes worn, there is an increased risk of slip.  Exposure to oils, solvents and animal fats can swell the rubber and increase risk of slip.

Barbour wellingtons contain natural rubber latex which some people may have an allergic reaction to.