How to Care for Waxed Leather Hunting Boots

Quick Answer

To care for waxed leather hunting boots, clean them with a soft brush and damp cloth, apply a wax-based conditioner, and let them dry naturally away from heat. Repeat after heavy use or when the leather feels dry.

Step-by-Step Waxed Leather Hunting Boot Care

1. Remove laces and loose dirt: Take out the laces and use a soft brush or dry cloth to brush off all loose dirt and debris from the boot surface. Pay extra attention to creases where dirt tends to collect. Working on dry, unlaced boots prevents you from grinding grit into the leather.
2. Wipe with a damp cloth: Dampen a clean cloth with lukewarm water and wipe the entire boot to remove remaining dust and light stains. Avoid soaking the leather; you only need a slightly damp cloth. If the leather looks water-spotted after drying, that's normal and will be evened out by conditioning.
3. Let the boots dry naturally: Allow the boots to air dry completely at room temperature, away from direct heat sources like radiators or sunlight. Never use a dryer or heat gun, as this can crack the leather. Check that the leather feels dry to the touch before moving to conditioning; applying wax to damp leather traps moisture.
4. Apply wax-based conditioner: Using a soft cloth or applicator, apply a thin, even layer of wax-based boot conditioner. Work it into the leather with small circular motions, covering the entire upper but avoiding the sole and any fabric sections. Less is more: a thin coat is easier to buff and less likely to leave a sticky residue.
5. Let the wax absorb and buff: Leave the conditioner to absorb for 10–15 minutes, then buff the boots with a clean, dry cloth to restore a subtle sheen and even out the finish. If the leather still looks dry, wait a few hours and apply a second thin coat.
6. Re-waterproof as needed: For boots with a waterproof membrane, the wax primarily protects the leather. Reapply a waterproofing wax after every few hunts or whenever water no longer beads on the surface. Keep a small tin of wax in your hunting pack for quick touch-ups in the field.

Boots That Benefit from This Care Routine

• LEOPARD GTX - Camo: The Leopard GTX RR features a camouflage-patterned, waxed leather upper with a rubber toe rand for added durability. The waxed finish keeps the pattern muted for stealth, and the toe rand protects the leather where it's most likely to scuff, so you can focus conditioning on the main panels.