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Winter is just around the corner and with it comes the popular winter hiking. An integral part of excursionists wandering through the winter landscape are hiking boots. This type of footwear is among the more expensive pieces. The main reason is quality workmanship and materials that ensure durability and the necessary support for the feet.
Textile vs leather
For the winter months a full-leather variant is suitable, as it is resistant to mechanical damage. Conversely, the combination of leather and textile, thanks to breathability and lightness, is suitable for the summer months. For both variants care is important, which will support the longevity of the footwear. Do not believe the circulating myth that impregnation destroys a shoe’s breathability. Leather is not breathable anyway, and wax will not reach the membrane.
When and how to impregnate full-leather hiking boots?
It is advisable to start impregnation immediately after purchase, when the boots are in their cleanest condition. It is then recommended to repeat the procedure twice a year, or before a longer and more demanding tour. When using a wax-based mixture remember that the boot will darken and the surface will smooth. With water-based impregnation the appearance of the boot does not change, but at the same time it is a short-term effect that does not nourish the footwear much and will not protect against road salt. The advantage of the water base is its applicability also to suede and nubuck. Solutions in spray form are easier to apply, but they also do not nourish the leather much. Conditioners, which do not impregnate, can take care of that instead.
How to apply wax?
As part of preparation wash the boots, dry them and remove the laces. Warm the surface of the boot, spread wax over their surface and then heat again. Buff with a cloth and wipe off the remaining wax. Then simply leave the boots for at least 8 hours in a “resting mode.”
Remember the summer version too
For the combination of leather and textile, an impregnation in the form of sprays containing silicone or based on a water solution is suitable. Likewise, the leather parts should be impregnated with wax from time to time.
