I’ve had best results from brushing off boots then using saddle soap, then carefully wiping off soap and water with a clean microfiber towel as fully as possible. Then while the leather is still a little damp, applying an extremely light coat of a good conditioner (such as red wing). If you do this while the leather is still somewhat damp, the conditioner flows better and far less is needed to cover the entire boot. This results in retaining and enriching the original brown color that you want to see instead of the near black color that you’ll end up with when too much oil has been applied. Applying conditioner while the leather is still slightly damp also helps the conditioner flow deep into leather and penetrate and condition the fibers better too. I’ve tried many methods over the last 50+ years. This is what works best for me. If boots are excessively dirty, I’ll even clean them with saddle soap twice over a couple of days prior to conditioning them as indicated above. Doing it this way, a tiny dap of conditioner goes a long way and does the trick. Good luck!
Just saw this I thought I’d chime in. I spent 20 years as a custom saddle maker and repairing most leather goods. Most people over oil. Too much oil actually opens the fibers allowing sand and grit in, not good, breaks down the leather to mush. The only suggestion I would make is to use more soap. Soap bubbles actually brings the dirt up to the surface so it can be rinsed away. Light oil and wax on. Good work. You know what you’re doing.
I think using a milder soap like Murphy's or saddle soap would get the boots just as clean, without stripping as much of the oil out of the leather. Also, you might consider using a conditionig product from Red Wing designed to condition and preserve this kind of leather. A coating of a wax-based shoe polish on the toe and heel caps when new might help to protect your boots from abrasion damage. Use an old toothbrush to clean the welt and apply soap and conditioner to the welt and other difficult-to-reach areas.
18 year military vet and I use fiebings saddle soap to clean, obenaufs oil to condition (work boots), and Lincoln stain wax to polish. I have combat boots on their 4th resole and 16 years old. That’s my method of care. Whatever works for you! If you want to polish over huberd’s or Obenauf, don’t over saturate the boot and let it sit a day. Otherwise, the polish doesn’t want to buff down completely because of the excess oils on the surface.
For really light colored boots and shoes I do use Saphir renovator. If it’s just light colored articles that won’t see much use but the color or patina matter use Bickmore #4. You will have to apply much more frequently
dish soap is gentle enough for leather. On a leather like that an abrasive brush won't hurt it. You'd kill Veg tanned leather like that. Ideally you'd use shoe trees but towels inside them providing they are packed tight enough are fine. Ideally I would let them dry inside but whatever. Chrome tanned leather is tough. There's not much you can't do to it. I've cleaned suede with a toothbrush and dish soap. That's not much different that what he did.
I've been using plain Dawn dish washing soap for decades on my leather boots. Two things...1. Use a soft bristle brush, like used for dishes. The hard bristle brush is fine, but is a little harsher on the surface. No big deal though. 2. Make sure you thoroughly rinse ALL the soap off. Then, as long as you let it thoroughly dry, and use quality conditioner after, they'll be just fine.
I see a lot of people commenting how you should get the boots resoled; get the leather restitched or changed out to make them look good. I agree on the resole part and I know that you have gotten them resoled already, but I personally think you should leave the leather as is. For me, when you leave your boots the way they are it’s almost like a memory keeper. Almost the same as when you get a scar on your body. You’ll always remember how you got it when looking at it no matter how many years go by. The same with the boots, keeping the leather in the rough condition that it is you will always be able to look at these boots and remember all of the fun and good times you had while wearing them because of how “beat up” the leather is. Once you change out the leather on your boots it’s almost like washing away all of those memories. I mean unless you get a big hole in your boot lol, but I’m sure you get what I mean! Great job on the resole by the way. Looks great!
Hey, I work for Red Wing (5 years now) and I understand where you’re coming from with the idea of stripping the oil and then putting oils back in, but I can say from experience that soap will eventually rot the leather. I know you’re not using much and you’ll probably be fine, but it’s not the best way to clean them. You’re definitely 100% right about the heavy bristle brush, though. That’s how we clean them in my store
KimballCody saddle soap would work perfectly on iron rangers. The soap is a little milder and it has other ingredients that condition them as well as clean
@@DuzzenZ what's your opinion on murphy's oil soap? That's what an old saddleman recommended to me to use on saddles an tack because it won't leave residue in the stitching. Then use 100% neatsfoot oil to moisturize. He said ptroleum based oils will rot most nylon stitching over time and that bugs and mice like vegetable and coconut oils and get a rancid odor.
Joshua J. Aguero Well we’ve been using petroleum based boot oil (at least for non waterproof boots) for forever, and we’ve never had a problem with it rotting the stitching, so I don’t think that’s accurate. Never heard of anyone using vegetable or coconut oil on their boots haha, but I could see it potentially attracting bugs. Neatsfoot oil is definitely good for the leather. It’s become my go-to for my heritage boots as of about a year ago. Just gotta make sure you use a good amount to make sure the stitching doesn’t dry out in the event that you do try to avoid petroleum based oils. Hope i answered that well. If not, feel free to message me again
First pair of Red Wings lasted 22 years. I wore them Summer, and Winter, plenty of walking. Now on my second pair. I told my Grand daughter, when I croak, don't cremate me in these, give them to some one needy. They can keep em for a long time. I always brushed [ horse hair ] first, then a wash with cellulite sponge, dry with old t-shirt, oil , cream, or protection of choice, using a soft brush for application to make sure to get into the welts. Buff after a while, then stuff news paper or rags into the boots to keep the shape. Re buff with a shoe brush to be sure oils got pushed in well. Always remove laces, clean and treat the tongue like the rest of the boot. Your boots will last for decades, and get more comfortable all the time. My new Red Wings took about a day to break is to full comfort. Could do long walks immediately. Kimball this video was the best tutorial I have seen. I felt like you were talking to the people who really needed true advice, not a shop keeper attempting to move product. I learned my method in the Army, only diff. was it was black Kiwi shoe polish on the boots, not oils. The boot polish will give you a clue to my age. Best wishes for more informative videos.
Great Video, I worked as a Freight Car repairman and cleaned my Carolina loggers the same way. Once a week I brought them home and scrubbed them with regular Dawn soap and nylon scrub brush, it was the only way to get all the coal dust, grease and dirt off them. Needless to say there still going strong.
I totally agree with you. I see some people that use products, (saddle soap) that are a joke. I use regular soap on my boots and when I'm done I oil them up. No problems at all
Great job mate... My two cents: Get a cheap last and beat those suckers into shape. Also as a last step rub it with a chunk of industrial wax (the white one with no smell) and buff it with the grinder till it feels like wax canvas. Nothing sticks to it, its inexpensive and it lasts forevers.
I’ve had my iron rangers for two years now as my everyday boot and work boot. Maybe not the most comfortable for 8 hour shifts, but I’ve never cleaned or maintained them and they’re still in good shape and keep out water all the way up to where the tongue is sewn to the sides.
5 years later, and I'm just seeing this. People do get afraid to scrub their boots. I personally prefer saddle soap for cleaning, and don't soak them near as much, to help keep from working dirt farther into the leather. But hey, there's more than one way to skin a cat. I then follow it up with obenaufs. That stuff is amazing. It really helps keep boots more water resistant , and keeps dirt/oil/grime from working down deep into the leather. Thanks for sharing your technique with the masses. Some people have never cleaned their boots, or know how to go about it.
Well of course they look beat up. You scrub down smooth leather with a nylon brush... That's like plowing up undisturbed ground. You will remove the couple weeds you might have, just to destroy the surface integrity- 2 months later, you're screwed with a mess of weeds.
That’s cutting edge. Since I was a kid, I’m in my 50’s, There’s has always been people ready to criticize. Especially in my family. Most of them are dead now.
Absolutely right, 21 years in the army, never had a problem with my boots. These boots were designed to be worked in. Used and abused. I bought my first pair last week, I used them for woodworking, yardwork, dinner with my wife, and cutting wood! The scarring can be sanded and buffed out. Thank you for sharing, real boots doing everyday work!
Like your attitude on not following the herd. Tips:Skip the scented brand name oil and use any vegetable oil. Shoe Polish is made with five parts veg. oil and three parts bees wax. Combine in a double boiler. Stir when wax is melted to blend polish. Pour into a used and washed plastic peanut butter jar. When cool and solid it is ready to use. Way cheaper and non toxic. My two cents. Best to you and yours.
Interesting! Would you ever use mink oil, or Sno Seal? In your opinion what are the PROs and CONs. What is the considerations with using oil, or grease?
Do you use any comfort soles inside your boots? I'm debating getting either a pair of Dr. Sholes soles or the Red Wing comfort soles. I wear my Oxblood 8119's for all day 6 days/week but towards the end of the week the balls of my feet start to ache.
I totally agree with you! The problem with people nowadays is there afraid to use em as a tool. These were meant to be put through the harshest of conditions. Otherwise, what is the point of buying something and spending so much money on, when they're afraid to use em? The tackiest thing to have is a pair of boots, that are all shiny and still look new. Beat the hell out of em , they're a tool!
That’s funny cuz my redwing store told me to use diluted dawn dish soap and a scrub brush. That’s what they use. And I got the polish and sealer. You’re doing it right!
Savage Family I guess you’d have to do that if you work hard with your boots but I don’t think the Heritage line is for the toughest of work. I own several so I know they’re built tough but Red Wing has an even tougher built boot line built for the hardest of work . Maybe this guy needs boots from that line.
Red Wing boots are the best you can get. Made right here in the USA, by hand, from real leather. You pay a little more than some other boots, but I feel you more than get your moneys worth. If you take care of them like this gentleman, they will make you money.
So do your boots not have shrinking problems, or do the boots un-shrink when they absorb the new oil? I think the reasoning behind an oil-only treatment is for preventative maintenance.
I totally agree no problem with using soap and water on your Iron Rangers! You will need to replace the oils and you do that so great job. I own two pairs of iron rangers and I love them one pair is for work the other pair for normal wear..GREAT video by the way...
I spent a many years in the military and when I cleaned my boots I always used mink oil and a shoe tree when drying. Shoe tree when not in use. Always.
I use saddle soap on some boots and shoes but if they are really dirty and crusty like your boots, Dawn soap and a soft brush will do just fine. I use mink oil on my boots but people will use whatever they like.
Finally!!! someone who puts a real video together of how to really clean boots. Thought I was the only guy that scrubs with water and soap.....I’ve been using a method similar to yours for 25 years on tons of boots. I do the inside too with dish soap or laundry detergent then warm the boots in oven at 180 for 5 minutes and oil them up like crazy with RedWing boot oil.
Saddle soap has lanolin with soap to clean the boot without taking out too much oil. Dawn soap is fine as long as you put the oils back in the boot after cleaning the boot. I would probably use dishwashing soap if my boots were over conditioned or too dirty and I wanted to remove some of the oils and lighten the leather a little.
I clean mine with the tears of my enemies and walk through burning tar pits to seal the leather, no not really, but with all the stories here I felt like saying something cool too. 😎 But seriously, I agree do whatever you want, most of us have too many to wear out one pair anyway.
I got 11" steel toed Logger boots from RedWing through work ( went through 3 pairs in my 17 years ) $400 boots. When they got nasty Id put them in the washer with bleach, then let them air dry and then spray them real good with silicone spray. After 3 years Id start rubbing them down with mink oil. These boots have a lifetime warranty on them to an extent, after that its what you can do to make them last. My first pair lasted me 5 years as a utility worker in water and muddy conditions daily, my second pair lasted me 3 years in Construction and into carpentry for another 4 years, my last pair working in Forestry 5 years. Now I have a brand new pair that I bought on my own and only worn a few times but I'm sure they will get their use soon once I start building my kids treehouse and the start of rehabbing a house... RedWings take a beating but they are well worth the money spent, Ive never had a pair of boots outlast these.
You are on the money. I have been doing this for decades with various leathers boots and I live in Britain and I'm a gardener. I scrub and clean all the shit off, let them dry naturally then use quality leather conditioners depending upon the time of year. Never had a problem and one pair of leather boots are 20 years old. Thank you for your time, keep up the good work 👊
@@KimballCody very true, however when I wear my messed up work boots people always ask where I got them from? My answer is hard work is were I got them from. I will be treating myself to some new iron rangers in May but gonna have to make the 70 mile trip to London to try them out, sizing sounds complicated.
Thanks, I was just about to write a thank you then you just had to all the sudden kick up the volume 50 desibles, my parents are sleeping in the next room, your killing me smalls! Killing me!
Curious to know if you like the nitrile/cork soles in terms of how they grip when working and walking? Clearly those boots have seen some work. Thanks for the vid.
Do yall start out just beating the shyt out of these or do you wait untill they've been worn for a while and then work in them. I'm babying the hell out of mine lmao. I have other boots I work in that are also redwing but not working my iron rangers till they have a decent amount of normal wear and tear which ill be me another pair. I wear mine out when going out and looking good. I get a lot of compliments on them.. just an all around good looking boot
That's how I've cared for my leather boots for years. I've owned Red Wings for decades. Use to be able to find a good pair for under $30.00. First clean off the old dirt, grime, oils, mink oil, waxes, conditioners, etc. Then apply new leather conditioners and waterproofing such as minx oil, Hubberds shoe grease or oil, Sno Seal, wax based products, home made such as from petroleum jelly and bees wax, etc. Some of the newer boots have an internal membrane that waterproofs the interior of the boot. If the boot not well made this waterproof membrane potentially will split or break. So more modern boots will have a waterproofing applied from the exterior of the leather and an internal membrane that seals out any water eventually seeping in from the exterior of a boot.
from my experience with lighter membrane hiking boots i dare to say they're not really reliable - i've had three of these with gore-tex liner and mesh sections on the outer shoe and they all broke after a year or less in the toe section, meaning they still look good from the outside, yet they're not waterproof anymore... maybe i bend them too hard, maybe they last longer on other people, but i don't believe in membranes anymore. i now have meindl army mountain boots that have lasted 7 years (admittedly not sooo heavy use but still!) and have never had any water coming in... they do have gore tex also, but i guess they're just still tight because their leather exterior is so very well made, with a few good stiches.
If you want, not sure how much it is but you can buy something called saddle soap. Does a pretty good job at pulling all the oils and such off leather.
My old wildland firefighter boots lasted me about four summers before hung them up. Definitely gotta use something like saddle soap, it’s the PH content that will bring down the lifetime of leather. I only really oiled mine after cleaning them. Like you said, putting oil over dirt just makes things worse.
Amazing! Just cleaned my boots exactly as you instructed. The soap took of all the grime & dirt, made the leather look really nice! Literally like washing dirty hands with soap & a scrub brush. Thank you!
I clean mine the same way but I cut my soap 10 to 1. I use dawn. The leather oil is probably best. It probably has pine pitch and mink oil. I guess that from the smell you said it had.
I also scrub my boots down with soap and water and let the dry overnight then the next morning I use bickmore number 4 conditioner and leather the boots with extra just sitting on the surface and then let it soak in for 10 minutes then buff it with a brush. Sometimes I use the scout brand Apache cream to help restore the original texture on my dress boots.
Great video! I bought a used pair that was used by a small oil conditioner maker as their sample show boots at trade shows and so on - they are over-oiled and tacky to the touch. Any ideas to clean the oil off? Just do what you did over and over until clean?
@@KimballCody thanks, I did a quick wipe with acetone and then saddle soaped 3 or 4 times - seems to have worked. Work boots anyway so I don’t mind if a bit scraped up
I prefer Dawn Ultra Dish Soap with stiff bristle brush. Works as good or better than Saddle Soap. I tried Hubert’s Boot Grease/Oil and it makes leather way to dark for my taste. I only use Bick 4 or Redwing Boot Cream with Neats Foot Oil. Doesn’t dark leather much if any. That’s my 2 cents.
At least you are showing your boots some love. Just a tip, Red Wing has their own tannery and I would recommend you use Red Wing Boot Oil to replenish the leather with the same fats and oils Red Wing uses in the tanning process.
Wow, they go really dark after the oil!...I wish IR’s were made in a light tan so when they’re oiled they end up like the amber harness started out as.
If you dont want them to change color, use a conditioner instead. I used to use oil until I found out its really not the best for leather. I read the boot/shoe care makers know this but know people will buy it so thats why they sell it. It always darkens, it attracts dirt while wet, & it leaves the leather dry & prone to crack when it dries off. Leather conditioners instead are the way to go.
nothing work better than natural materials. I just got a brand new but vintage (old stock) italian boots and leather is stiff AF. So I did clean them anyway with soap and air dry them now I backing oils back to them so they won't crack. I'm not using any fancy creams or conditioners. Some mixure of pig's fat and olive oil - I only regret that not added some lemon or fragnance oil but other than this, they seems totally fine. I heard that neatsfoot oil and mink oil is pretty good too (not sure if this is the same thing). And if you want waterproofing them just mix grease with beeswax - all natural and better than any commercial products!
You can use a clothes detergent as it doesn't have the bubble bath in it like the dishwashing detergent does. The clothes detergent will be easier to rinse off than the dishwashing detergent. Most people don't realize there is a difference between soap and detergent, Soap is traditionally lye based and would be hard on the leather. But detergent is okay to use but needs to be rinsed off as good as possible. I like to use a leather conditioner/protector that has beeswax in it. I have some expensive Kenetrek boots and use the Kenetrek boot wax. That stuff is amazing. It conditions and waterproofs the leather really well but doesn't make them greasy.
Great video demonstrating how rugged these boots are. Question: you called and ordered a pair of factory seconds over the phone? I’m looking at getting a pair of seconds 8114s. I’ve just been waiting for STP to have them
Nice video thanks for sharing. I use simple green, from a spray bottle and water. Saddle soap too if I have any. Please share your outlet sources for the Iron Rangers. I've searched and searched. Many thanks.
It's a beautiful thing to see those boots being used how they were meant to be instead of seeing them as fashion pieces. Thanks for sharing this with us!
If people didn’t use them as a fashion pieces, factory would’ve been long gone by now … I’m pretty sure workers at Red Wings appreciate money from a city guy just as much as the money from the coal miner
Awesome video I did the same thing on my redwings chucka and was waiting to see what I was doing wrong cracked up. To see I’m doing it how I want to and I also add my own oils. People need to understand that we are all not always agree on everything different mind sets.
For work boots i use saddle soap and a pig bristle brush then obenauf’s. For my casual boots I usually just wipe them down with a cloth then use a light conditioner. If they’re dirtier ill use a lighter cleaner. I like how you don’t give a shit though haha.
Ive been watching videos on how to clean my redwings and you know what you're right.. I'm watching people barely brush them once or twice with a horse hair brush. I'm like dude that's not gonna pull the dirt and grime out of my boots I wear mine just like you.. for work, play, hike, yard work and everything in between they take a beating a couple horse hair brush strokes are not gonna get mine clean.. I think there's a difference between cleaning your boots for tradition and for spectacle and actually cleaning your boots because they're extremely dirty...
I like your boot videos alot. The ones you have on in the video, really nice also. You obviously know what you are doing and talking about. I will gladly take your boot cleaning/ care advice/ tips anytime. Great guy you are -Kirk
I personally prefer to use baby soap, and I completely submerge and soak my boots in the tub, and rinse them out until the water is good enough to drink lol. I actually use a carpet brush, really rough and tough nylon brush. I place them either over a vent or on a PEET boot dryer. Apache cream is a decent cream that I use. Awesome boots bro.
You might want to use glycerin saddle soap to clean the boots rather than harsh detergent soap. Some leather conditioner after they dry will be helpful. No one would ever clean saddles and tack that way. You of course are free to do as you please.
I’m new to owning the 8111’s. I’m 2mo’s in, and consider myself to be med to hard on my boots. I’m wearing them about 8hr’s a day. I haven’t done anything other than use shoe trees, and I brush them daily. I’m planning on using Bick 4 conditioner at some point, and saddle soap to clean them. Other than that, I have no idea, hopefully I’ll know more in four years … 🤷🏻♂️
Hey! You're the guy who did the whites vs nicks comparison, I remember watching that video right when it posted. Weird seeing you while I was looking at rangers
I had Chippewas for a long time. I've got a pair of Red Wings on deck now for when the snow gets deep. I always say I'm going to take better care of my boots but the soles wear out and I stupidly keep wearing them until I've worn holes in the lasts, then you can't get them fixed and out they go! This man owns and operates at least two angle grinders. I think we can trust him. IMHO dish soap is just fine for shoes and boots. I've never tried Huberd's Oil. After this video maybe I will. Thank you.
what socks do you use with your boots? i have been wearing these thin dress socks , they are definitely not comfortable but i am afraid that if i wear thicker work socks or wool socks i will stretch my boots more than my natural feet size and shape , any comments on that sir?
especially for the break in phase i use thick cushioned wool hiking or skiing socks (not these old school self made ribbed things), since i tend to get blisters on the heel and wool (at least 50% + a bit polyester and nylon) really reduces the friction by a lot compared to cotton. if thats not enough you can also try wearing ladie's nylons underneath your regular socks until your boots get really comfy. if you have the feeling they have gotten a little to wide after that you can still use the soap clean and fast sun dry method - especially suede does shrink a little in this process; don't forget to wax/oil before wearing them again - i'm not saying it would destroy them instantly if you didn't, but putting stress on bone dry leather is really not good. soap clean, sun dry - no prob, but really treat them afterwards... i once lost a wonderful old school bag i bought from the flea market to not treating it before use :(
It's like people have forgotten about the massive oil spill...what was it Exxon oil spill and all the other oil spills that happen, That covered alot of marine life. What was used to clean the animals off? Oh wait Dawn Dish soap. It works best on removing oil and it is super gentle on skin/Leather...and he is re introducing natural oils back into the leather. Yaay! Great job on your boots they look beautiful. Definitely didn't ruin them...lol
I wouldn't use dish soap, but I'll use saddle soap and that's plenty aggressive for me. But yes, I do agree that boots; especially full grain leather boots will soak up everything around them. Mine have sucked up a ton of stuff, but saddle soap seems to get everything out just fine.
This is a Real man putting work boots to work, and then, giving them the real deal treatment with whatever is there to maintain them. Grandpa usted back in the 40s cooking canola oil and lavender oil on his coal mine boots
Natural oils in tanned leather?? People don't understand tanning, you remove the 'natural oil' and replace it with chromium, that's why it's called chromium tanned leather. Garment leather uses tannin (vegetable) to replace the 'natural oils'. Raw-hide is not tanned, it's dried, that's why it has to be protected, otherwise it rots.
I do it the sameway as you do with a stiff brush and dish soap but I like to use hot hot water in the sink bc I deal with a lot of salt and salt water at work
As always another great video. Dish soap is perfect. I personally use Saddle soap on mine. I have a pair of 875s as well as the Iron Rangers 8115 with the new vibram sole in Copper Rough and tough. I use a mink oil on my 875a because use them hard and get them wet.
Meh, they're work boots, just clean them and oil them. You're right. Two things that will destroy your boots: dehydration and friction due to dirt/debris. I just used oxalic acid on nice leather dress shoes to lighten them after stripping them down. They're fine after adding ALL the other stuff to make them good again. Bottom line, the boots will last with your method. You may decrease their life some, but you probably won't notice anyway.
![[Red Wing Boots] Classic Iron Ranger 8111 Amber Harness, Heritage boots (My thoughts)](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/JGn0DtIUPw8/mqdefault.jpg)
That dove that I hear singing in the background is wonderful. Praise God for His amazing creation!
I’ve had best results from brushing off boots then using saddle soap, then carefully wiping off soap and water with a clean microfiber towel as fully as possible. Then while the leather is still a little damp, applying an extremely light coat of a good conditioner (such as red wing). If you do this while the leather is still somewhat damp, the conditioner flows better and far less is needed to cover the entire boot. This results in retaining and enriching the original brown color that you want to see instead of the near black color that you’ll end up with when too much oil has been applied. Applying conditioner while the leather is still slightly damp also helps the conditioner flow deep into leather and penetrate and condition the fibers better too. I’ve tried many methods over the last 50+ years. This is what works best for me. If boots are excessively dirty, I’ll even clean them with saddle soap twice over a couple of days prior to conditioning them as indicated above. Doing it this way, a tiny dap of conditioner goes a long way and does the trick. Good luck!
I'm a coal miner and those boots look like the inside of my lungs. nice work
+Echowhiskey thanks friend.
I used to work in underground and surface hard rock mining. My lungs are totally shit-housed.
So coal dust is bad?
Jacob Sebastien oh just a little😂
My buddy is a male porn star and his butthole looks like the leather before you restored them.
Just saw this I thought I’d chime in. I spent 20 years as a custom saddle maker and repairing most leather goods. Most people over oil. Too much oil actually opens the fibers allowing sand and grit in, not good, breaks down the leather to mush. The only suggestion I would make is to use more soap. Soap bubbles actually brings the dirt up to the surface so it can be rinsed away. Light oil and wax on. Good work. You know what you’re doing.
Thank you for the kind words and advice
Everyone always knows best. As long as you do SOMETHING with them, they'll last a long time. Yours look great! Thanks for the video.
Thanks
I think using a milder soap like Murphy's or saddle soap would get the boots just as clean, without stripping as much of the oil out of the leather. Also, you might consider using a conditionig product from Red Wing designed to condition and preserve this kind of leather. A coating of a wax-based shoe polish on the toe and heel caps when new might help to protect your boots from abrasion damage. Use an old toothbrush to clean the welt and apply soap and conditioner to the welt and other difficult-to-reach areas.
He does it a lot cheaper.
18 year military vet and I use fiebings saddle soap to clean, obenaufs oil to condition (work boots), and Lincoln stain wax to polish. I have combat boots on their 4th resole and 16 years old. That’s my method of care. Whatever works for you! If you want to polish over huberd’s or Obenauf, don’t over saturate the boot and let it sit a day. Otherwise, the polish doesn’t want to buff down completely because of the excess oils on the surface.
For really light colored boots and shoes I do use Saphir renovator. If it’s just light colored articles that won’t see much use but the color or patina matter use Bickmore #4. You will have to apply much more frequently
dish soap is gentle enough for leather. On a leather like that an abrasive brush won't hurt it. You'd kill Veg tanned leather like that.
Ideally you'd use shoe trees but towels inside them providing they are packed tight enough are fine. Ideally I would let them dry inside but whatever.
Chrome tanned leather is tough. There's not much you can't do to it. I've cleaned suede with a toothbrush and dish soap. That's not much different that what he did.
Also I would not use that much water.
I've been using plain Dawn dish washing soap for decades on my leather boots. Two things...1. Use a soft bristle brush, like used for dishes. The hard bristle brush is fine, but is a little harsher on the surface. No big deal though. 2. Make sure you thoroughly rinse ALL the soap off. Then, as long as you let it thoroughly dry, and use quality conditioner after, they'll be just fine.
Everyone’s an “expert.” I came for the comments. I love how everyone felt the need to tell you how to take care of YOUR boots.
I love how you are trolling the complainers. I like these videos.
I see a lot of people commenting how you should get the boots resoled; get the leather restitched or changed out to make them look good. I agree on the resole part and I know that you have gotten them resoled already, but I personally think you should leave the leather as is. For me, when you leave your boots the way they are it’s almost like a memory keeper. Almost the same as when you get a scar on your body. You’ll always remember how you got it when looking at it no matter how many years go by. The same with the boots, keeping the leather in the rough condition that it is you will always be able to look at these boots and remember all of the fun and good times you had while wearing them because of how “beat up” the leather is. Once you change out the leather on your boots it’s almost like washing away all of those memories. I mean unless you get a big hole in your boot lol, but I’m sure you get what I mean! Great job on the resole by the way. Looks great!
Umm..do you sleep w your boots sicky?!!
@@alfredozamora5867 you don't???
I agree with you these boots are tougher than people think.
Hey, I work for Red Wing (5 years now) and I understand where you’re coming from with the idea of stripping the oil and then putting oils back in, but I can say from experience that soap will eventually rot the leather. I know you’re not using much and you’ll probably be fine, but it’s not the best way to clean them. You’re definitely 100% right about the heavy bristle brush, though. That’s how we clean them in my store
+David Bissoon saddle soap?
KimballCody saddle soap would work perfectly on iron rangers. The soap is a little milder and it has other ingredients that condition them as well as clean
I
@@DuzzenZ what's your opinion on murphy's oil soap?
That's what an old saddleman recommended to me to use on saddles an tack because it won't leave residue in the stitching. Then use 100% neatsfoot oil to moisturize. He said ptroleum based oils will rot most nylon stitching over time and that bugs and mice like vegetable and coconut oils and get a rancid odor.
Joshua J. Aguero Well we’ve been using petroleum based boot oil (at least for non waterproof boots) for forever, and we’ve never had a problem with it rotting the stitching, so I don’t think that’s accurate. Never heard of anyone using vegetable or coconut oil on their boots haha, but I could see it potentially attracting bugs.
Neatsfoot oil is definitely good for the leather. It’s become my go-to for my heritage boots as of about a year ago. Just gotta make sure you use a good amount to make sure the stitching doesn’t dry out in the event that you do try to avoid petroleum based oils.
Hope i answered that well. If not, feel free to message me again
First pair of Red Wings lasted 22 years. I wore them Summer, and Winter, plenty of walking. Now on my second pair. I told my Grand daughter, when I croak, don't cremate me in these, give them to some one needy. They can keep em for a long time. I always brushed [ horse hair ] first, then a wash with cellulite sponge, dry with old t-shirt, oil , cream, or protection of choice, using a soft brush for application to make sure to get into the welts. Buff after a while, then stuff news paper or rags into the boots to keep the shape. Re buff with a shoe brush to be sure oils got pushed in well. Always remove laces, clean and treat the tongue like the rest of the boot. Your boots will last for decades, and get more comfortable all the time. My new Red Wings took about a day to break is to full comfort. Could do long walks immediately. Kimball this video was the best tutorial I have seen. I felt like you were talking to the people who really needed true advice, not a shop keeper attempting to move product. I learned my method in the Army, only diff. was it was black Kiwi shoe polish on the boots, not oils. The boot polish will give you a clue to my age. Best wishes for more informative videos.
Saddle soap instead of palmolive dish soap may be the best way to get the grime off without stripping the boot completely
He might have used dish soap for the oil stains in his boots plus all he had to do was oil it after so it’s all good
Great Video, I worked as a Freight Car repairman and cleaned my Carolina loggers the same way. Once a week I brought them home and scrubbed them with regular Dawn soap and nylon scrub brush, it was the only way to get all the coal dust, grease and dirt off them. Needless to say there still going strong.
+Thomas Murphy clean boots last a long time
I totally agree with you. I see some people that use products, (saddle soap) that are a joke. I use regular soap on my boots and when I'm done I oil them up. No problems at all
what oil u use ?
Great job mate... My two cents: Get a cheap last and beat those suckers into shape. Also as a last step rub it with a chunk of industrial wax (the white one with no smell) and buff it with the grinder till it feels like wax canvas. Nothing sticks to it, its inexpensive and it lasts forevers.
forevers
@@amanwithnoname2744 I stand correcteds.
I’ve had my iron rangers for two years now as my everyday boot and work boot. Maybe not the most comfortable for 8 hour shifts, but I’ve never cleaned or maintained them and they’re still in good shape and keep out water all the way up to where the tongue is sewn to the sides.
5 years later, and I'm just seeing this. People do get afraid to scrub their boots. I personally prefer saddle soap for cleaning, and don't soak them near as much, to help keep from working dirt farther into the leather. But hey, there's more than one way to skin a cat. I then follow it up with obenaufs. That stuff is amazing. It really helps keep boots more water resistant , and keeps dirt/oil/grime from working down deep into the leather.
Thanks for sharing your technique with the masses. Some people have never cleaned their boots, or know how to go about it.
Well of course they look beat up. You scrub down smooth leather with a nylon brush...
That's like plowing up undisturbed ground. You will remove the couple weeds you might have, just to destroy the surface integrity- 2 months later, you're screwed with a mess of weeds.
That’s cutting edge. Since I was a kid, I’m in my 50’s, There’s has always been people ready to criticize. Especially in my family. Most of them are dead now.
Your setting takes me back a bit when I lived in Yuma, AZ. Great video, and like the no nonsense.
I graduated high school in Yuma
Looks like Tucson where I live
Absolutely right, 21 years in the army, never had a problem with my boots. These boots were designed to be worked in. Used and abused. I bought my first pair last week, I used them for woodworking, yardwork, dinner with my wife, and cutting wood!
The scarring can be sanded and buffed out. Thank you for sharing, real boots doing everyday work!
Like your attitude on not following the herd. Tips:Skip the scented brand name oil and use any vegetable oil. Shoe Polish is made with five parts veg. oil and three parts bees wax. Combine in a double boiler. Stir when wax is melted to blend polish. Pour into a used and washed plastic peanut butter jar. When cool and solid it is ready to use. Way cheaper and non toxic. My two cents. Best to you and yours.
Thanks. Ill try it. Maybe coconut oil?
Any oil ...linseed oil will not go rancid if you want to keep the polish for longer than two years.
Is there any other oils I can use? I have so many different oils in my house... wanted to clean my boots but not able to get to my local show store
Coconut oil
Interesting! Would you ever use mink oil, or Sno Seal? In your opinion what are the PROs and CONs. What is the considerations with using oil, or grease?
Do you use any comfort soles inside your boots? I'm debating getting either a pair of Dr. Sholes soles or the Red Wing comfort soles. I wear my Oxblood 8119's for all day 6 days/week but towards the end of the week the balls of my feet start to ache.
I totally agree with you! The problem with people nowadays is there afraid to use em as a tool. These were meant to be put through the harshest of conditions. Otherwise, what is the point of buying something and spending so much money on, when they're afraid to use em? The tackiest thing to have is a pair of boots, that are all shiny and still look new. Beat the hell out of em , they're a tool!
That’s funny cuz my redwing store told me to use diluted dawn dish soap and a scrub brush. That’s what they use. And I got the polish and sealer. You’re doing it right!
Savage Family I guess you’d have to do that if you work hard with your boots but I don’t think the Heritage line is for the toughest of work. I own several so I know they’re built tough but Red Wing has an even tougher built boot line built for the hardest of work . Maybe this guy needs boots from that line.
Nice to see someone using these as they were intended for.
These were made to be a casual boot. Not saying they can’t take a beating but these are intended to be worn casually.
Red Wing boots are the best you can get. Made right here in the USA, by hand, from real leather. You pay a little more than some other boots, but I feel you more than get your moneys worth. If you take care of them like this gentleman, they will make you money.
So do your boots not have shrinking problems, or do the boots un-shrink when they absorb the new oil? I think the reasoning behind an oil-only treatment is for preventative maintenance.
+Eye of the Forest I dont notice any shrinking
I totally agree no problem with using soap and water on your Iron Rangers! You will need to replace the oils and you do that so great job. I own two pairs of iron rangers and I love them one pair is for work the other pair for normal wear..GREAT video by the way...
+Gary Gary thanks
I spent a many years in the military and when I cleaned my boots I always used mink oil and a shoe tree when drying.
Shoe tree when not in use. Always.
I usually clean mine with diesel fuel and steel wool. Works well.
+Jacob D what about the smell?
I think he's being facetious
I've used naptha and a scrub brush. It takes all of the old grease and polish off. Then three coats of mink oil.
I can smell you through your comment
I use muriatic acid and my angle grinder.
Nice video. Thanks for your insight!
I use only water on a wet cloth or if needed dish soap or a gentle knife blade also. Rinse and re oil.
How are these boots good for working or hiking, that have a flat smooth sole?
They hold up well. I just had them rebuilt with a lug sole. Stay tuned for a video
I use saddle soap on some boots and shoes but if they are really dirty and crusty like your boots, Dawn soap and a soft brush will do just fine. I use mink oil on my boots but people will use whatever they like.
Finally!!! someone who puts a real video together of how to really clean boots. Thought I was the only guy that scrubs with water and soap.....I’ve been using a method similar to yours for 25 years on tons of boots. I do the inside too with dish soap or laundry detergent then warm the boots in oven at 180 for 5 minutes and oil them up like crazy with RedWing boot oil.
Dish "soap" is actually detergent, not soap. I don't know what that means though.
Saddle soap has lanolin with soap to clean the boot without taking out too much oil. Dawn soap is fine as long as you put the oils back in the boot after cleaning the boot. I would probably use dishwashing soap if my boots were over conditioned or too dirty and I wanted to remove some of the oils and lighten the leather a little.
I clean mine with the tears of my enemies and walk through burning tar pits to seal the leather, no not really, but with all the stories here I felt like saying something cool too. 😎
But seriously, I agree do whatever you want, most of us have too many to wear out one pair anyway.
I got 11" steel toed Logger boots from RedWing through work ( went through 3 pairs in my 17 years ) $400 boots. When they got nasty Id put them in the washer with bleach, then let them air dry and then spray them real good with silicone spray. After 3 years Id start rubbing them down with mink oil. These boots have a lifetime warranty on them to an extent, after that its what you can do to make them last. My first pair lasted me 5 years as a utility worker in water and muddy conditions daily, my second pair lasted me 3 years in Construction and into carpentry for another 4 years, my last pair working in Forestry 5 years. Now I have a brand new pair that I bought on my own and only worn a few times but I'm sure they will get their use soon once I start building my kids treehouse and the start of rehabbing a house... RedWings take a beating but they are well worth the money spent, Ive never had a pair of boots outlast these.
That "warranty" only covers minimal stuff under "manufacturing defects" most anything will get turned away as wear and tear.
You are on the money. I have been doing this for decades with various leathers boots and I live in Britain and I'm a gardener. I scrub and clean all the shit off, let them dry naturally then use quality leather conditioners depending upon the time of year. Never had a problem and one pair of leather boots are 20 years old. Thank you for your time, keep up the good work 👊
I've come to realize that the majority of people don't work in these type of boots
@@KimballCody very true, however when I wear my messed up work boots people always ask where I got them from? My answer is hard work is were I got them from. I will be treating myself to some new iron rangers in May but gonna have to make the 70 mile trip to London to try them out, sizing sounds complicated.
I clean mine the same way. I follow up with leather conditioner after they dry. I have one pair that’s 15 years old and still in the rotation.
People with real world experience understand
A total of 4 trucks in that video. This guy knows what he is talking about!
Thanks, I was just about to write a thank you then you just had to all the sudden kick up the volume 50 desibles, my parents are sleeping in the next room, your killing me smalls! Killing me!
Curious to know if you like the nitrile/cork soles in terms of how they grip when working and walking? Clearly those boots have seen some work. Thanks for the vid.
Not the best but not slick like leather
Do yall start out just beating the shyt out of these or do you wait untill they've been worn for a while and then work in them. I'm babying the hell out of mine lmao. I have other boots I work in that are also redwing but not working my iron rangers till they have a decent amount of normal wear and tear which ill be me another pair. I wear mine out when going out and looking good. I get a lot of compliments on them.. just an all around good looking boot
That's how I've cared for my leather boots for years. I've owned Red Wings for decades. Use to be able to find a good pair for under $30.00. First clean off the old dirt, grime, oils, mink oil, waxes, conditioners, etc. Then apply new leather conditioners and waterproofing such as minx oil, Hubberds shoe grease or oil, Sno Seal, wax based products, home made such as from petroleum jelly and bees wax, etc.
Some of the newer boots have an internal membrane that waterproofs the interior of the boot. If the boot not well made this waterproof membrane potentially will split or break. So more modern boots will have a waterproofing applied from the exterior of the leather and an internal membrane that seals out any water eventually seeping in from the exterior of a boot.
from my experience with lighter membrane hiking boots i dare to say they're not really reliable - i've had three of these with gore-tex liner and mesh sections on the outer shoe and they all broke after a year or less in the toe section, meaning they still look good from the outside, yet they're not waterproof anymore... maybe i bend them too hard, maybe they last longer on other people, but i don't believe in membranes anymore.
i now have meindl army mountain boots that have lasted 7 years (admittedly not sooo heavy use but still!) and have never had any water coming in... they do have gore tex also, but i guess they're just still tight because their leather exterior is so very well made, with a few good stiches.
@@seppstarthebest I have read this as well. The stress of hiking and walking breaks down the gore tex 'sock' rather quickly.
I love how practical you are. Gets the job done admirably.
If you want, not sure how much it is but you can buy something called saddle soap. Does a pretty good job at pulling all the oils and such off leather.
+gantin strike i did another with the stuff
Nice video and the respond for those comment. Do you apply soap in every maintenance procedure or bi monthly？ thank you！
My old wildland firefighter boots lasted me about four summers before hung them up. Definitely gotta use something like saddle soap, it’s the PH content that will bring down the lifetime of leather. I only really oiled mine after cleaning them. Like you said, putting oil over dirt just makes things worse.
Amazing! Just cleaned my boots exactly as you instructed. The soap took of all the grime & dirt, made the leather look really nice! Literally like washing dirty hands with soap & a scrub brush. Thank you!
+Anne McDonald glad to hear it worked out for you. Thanks for watching
I clean mine the same way but I cut my soap 10 to 1. I use dawn. The leather oil is probably best. It probably has pine pitch and mink oil. I guess that from the smell you said it had.
I think its the pine pitch
I also scrub my boots down with soap and water and let the dry overnight then the next morning I use bickmore number 4 conditioner and leather the boots with extra just sitting on the surface and then let it soak in for 10 minutes then buff it with a brush. Sometimes I use the scout brand Apache cream to help restore the original texture on my dress boots.
9:22 "Okay, you can use a horse hair brush...that's just semantics" LooooooLLLL
Not picking sides but tell me whats good about a horsehair brush. I got my iron Rangers a week ago
For most people, boots are just boots.. nothing more. But for some people, boots are BOOTS.
Great video! I bought a used pair that was used by a small oil conditioner maker as their sample show boots at trade shows and so on - they are over-oiled and tacky to the touch. Any ideas to clean the oil off? Just do what you did over and over until clean?
You could try acetone but it might be too much
@@KimballCody thanks, I did a quick wipe with acetone and then saddle soaped 3 or 4 times - seems to have worked. Work boots anyway so I don’t mind if a bit scraped up
I prefer Dawn Ultra Dish Soap with stiff bristle brush. Works as good or better than Saddle Soap. I tried Hubert’s Boot Grease/Oil and it makes leather way to dark for my taste. I only use Bick 4 or Redwing Boot Cream with Neats Foot Oil. Doesn’t dark leather much if any. That’s my 2 cents.
good video, what shoes/boots are you wearing in this video... they look like hawthorne muleskinner leather?
They look like the Rovers
At least you are showing your boots some love. Just a tip, Red Wing has their own tannery and I would recommend you use Red Wing Boot Oil to replenish the leather with the same fats and oils Red Wing uses in the tanning process.
Wow, they go really dark after the oil!...I wish IR’s were made in a light tan so when they’re oiled they end up like the amber harness started out as.
Europe has the lighter leather used on the 877s in iron rangers. I can't find them in the states
If you use oil, they lighten up with wear, if you use mink, they staying dark.
If you dont want them to change color, use a conditioner instead. I used to use oil until I found out its really not the best for leather. I read the boot/shoe care makers know this but know people will buy it so thats why they sell it.
It always darkens, it attracts dirt while wet, & it leaves the leather dry & prone to crack when it dries off.
Leather conditioners instead are the way to go.
nothing work better than natural materials. I just got a brand new but vintage (old stock) italian boots and leather is stiff AF. So I did clean them anyway with soap and air dry them now I backing oils back to them so they won't crack. I'm not using any fancy creams or conditioners. Some mixure of pig's fat and olive oil - I only regret that not added some lemon or fragnance oil but other than this, they seems totally fine. I heard that neatsfoot oil and mink oil is pretty good too (not sure if this is the same thing). And if you want waterproofing them just mix grease with beeswax - all natural and better than any commercial products!
You can use a clothes detergent as it doesn't have the bubble bath in it like the dishwashing detergent does. The clothes detergent will be easier to rinse off than the dishwashing detergent. Most people don't realize there is a difference between soap and detergent, Soap is traditionally lye based and would be hard on the leather. But detergent is okay to use but needs to be rinsed off as good as possible. I like to use a leather conditioner/protector that has beeswax in it. I have some expensive Kenetrek boots and use the Kenetrek boot wax. That stuff is amazing. It conditions and waterproofs the leather really well but doesn't make them greasy.
Great video demonstrating how rugged these boots are. Question: you called and ordered a pair of factory seconds over the phone? I’m looking at getting a pair of seconds 8114s. I’ve just been waiting for STP to have them
Call the factory store and ask if they have any factory 2nds
651-388-6233
Nice video thanks for sharing. I use simple green, from a spray bottle and water. Saddle soap too if I have any. Please share your outlet sources for the Iron Rangers. I've searched and searched. Many thanks.
Sierra Trading Post
Thanks. Will check them out.
Great video! What, if any is the difference between using dish soap vs using saddle soap?
Mark Nestlehutt my last video shoes the differrnce between the two.
It's a beautiful thing to see those boots being used how they were meant to be instead of seeing them as fashion pieces. Thanks for sharing this with us!
If people didn’t use them as a fashion pieces, factory would’ve been long gone by now … I’m pretty sure workers at Red Wings appreciate money from a city guy just as much as the money from the coal miner
Great looking boots. Happy New Year Cody
Awesome video I did the same thing on my redwings chucka and was waiting to see what I was doing wrong cracked up. To see I’m doing it how I want to and I also add my own oils. People need to understand that we are all not always agree on everything different mind sets.
For work boots i use saddle soap and a pig bristle brush then obenauf’s. For my casual boots I usually just wipe them down with a cloth then use a light conditioner. If they’re dirtier ill use a lighter cleaner. I like how you don’t give a shit though haha.
Beautiful job. You definitely know your stuff.
Trial and error
Ive been watching videos on how to clean my redwings and you know what you're right.. I'm watching people barely brush them once or twice with a horse hair brush. I'm like dude that's not gonna pull the dirt and grime out of my boots I wear mine just like you.. for work, play, hike, yard work and everything in between they take a beating a couple horse hair brush strokes are not gonna get mine clean.. I think there's a difference between cleaning your boots for tradition and for spectacle and actually cleaning your boots because they're extremely dirty...
This is an old video but this is how I care for my redwing boots this video is spot on
Oxy clean works good. It doesn't ruin leather too.
I like your boot videos alot. The ones you have on in the video, really nice also. You obviously know what you are doing and talking about. I will gladly take your boot cleaning/ care advice/ tips anytime. Great guy you are -Kirk
I personally prefer to use baby soap, and I completely submerge and soak my boots in the tub, and rinse them out until the water is good enough to drink lol. I actually use a carpet brush, really rough and tough nylon brush. I place them either over a vent or on a PEET boot dryer. Apache cream is a decent cream that I use. Awesome boots bro.
You might want to use glycerin saddle soap to clean the boots rather than harsh detergent soap. Some leather conditioner after they dry will be helpful. No one would ever clean saddles and tack that way. You of course are free to do as you please.
I’m new to owning the 8111’s. I’m 2mo’s in, and consider myself to be med to hard on my boots. I’m wearing them about 8hr’s a day. I haven’t done anything other than use shoe trees, and I brush them daily. I’m planning on using Bick 4 conditioner at some point, and saddle soap to clean them. Other than that, I have no idea, hopefully I’ll know more in four years … 🤷🏻♂️
Hey! You're the guy who did the whites vs nicks comparison, I remember watching that video right when it posted. Weird seeing you while I was looking at rangers
Small world
I had Chippewas for a long time. I've got a pair of Red Wings on deck now for when the snow gets deep. I always say I'm going to take better care of my boots but the soles wear out and I stupidly keep wearing them until I've worn holes in the lasts, then you can't get them fixed and out they go!
This man owns and operates at least two angle grinders. I think we can trust him.
IMHO dish soap is just fine for shoes and boots. I've never tried Huberd's Oil. After this video maybe I will.
Thank you.
I understand u sir... Its my boots.. Its strong....."hey boots u can handle this.. Its nothing! Lets go together!"
what socks do you use with your boots? i have been wearing these thin dress socks , they are definitely not comfortable but i am afraid that if i wear thicker work socks or wool socks i will stretch my boots more than my natural feet size and shape , any comments on that sir?
+solukhumbu911 I've done both and haven't noticed a problem.
Never had a problem with thick socks doing any stretching. Just FYI.
Just loosen up your laces al little bit when youre wearing thick socks
This is hysterical.
especially for the break in phase i use thick cushioned wool hiking or skiing socks (not these old school self made ribbed things), since i tend to get blisters on the heel and wool (at least 50% + a bit polyester and nylon) really reduces the friction by a lot compared to cotton. if thats not enough you can also try wearing ladie's nylons underneath your regular socks until your boots get really comfy.
if you have the feeling they have gotten a little to wide after that you can still use the soap clean and fast sun dry method - especially suede does shrink a little in this process; don't forget to wax/oil before wearing them again - i'm not saying it would destroy them instantly if you didn't, but putting stress on bone dry leather is really not good. soap clean, sun dry - no prob, but really treat them afterwards... i once lost a wonderful old school bag i bought from the flea market to not treating it before use :(
It's like people have forgotten about the massive oil spill...what was it Exxon oil spill and all the other oil spills that happen, That covered alot of marine life.
What was used to clean the animals off? Oh wait Dawn Dish soap. It works best on removing oil and it is super gentle on skin/Leather...and he is re introducing natural oils back into the leather. Yaay!
Great job on your boots they look beautiful. Definitely didn't ruin them...lol
I use lye soap and a scrub brush to clean my boots, then let them dry and oil them with neatsfoot oil and a rag.
+Cjinglaterra very old fashioned
I use shoe trees when I put my boots away also I like mink oil on my work boots .
+Eugene Onegin a lot of people use mink oil
Now I know how to clean my iron rangers. Thanks
You're welcome
I wouldn't use dish soap, but I'll use saddle soap and that's plenty aggressive for me. But yes, I do agree that boots; especially full grain leather boots will soak up everything around them. Mine have sucked up a ton of stuff, but saddle soap seems to get everything out just fine.
How do you walk anywhere with those flat soles? Living in the woods (mud) of northern PA, its loggers or bust...
Just resoled them
This is a Real man putting work boots to work, and then, giving them the real deal treatment with whatever is there to maintain them. Grandpa usted back in the 40s cooking canola oil and lavender oil on his coal mine boots
Also, you can get that resoled and you can also get the toe cap replaced
How are those boots holding up?
Still going strong
Natural oils in tanned leather?? People don't understand tanning, you remove the 'natural oil' and replace it with chromium, that's why it's called chromium tanned leather. Garment leather uses tannin (vegetable) to replace the 'natural oils'. Raw-hide is not tanned, it's dried, that's why it has to be protected, otherwise it rots.
I use mine for swimming, then condition them with mayonnaise, it's not that great but it does smell nice.
Mustard?
Are they good for digging all day, everyday. Kicking a shovel. Are they comfortable?
+JOEY Simps they have a steel shank in them. I think they would hold up. Very comfortable
I do it the sameway as you do with a stiff brush and dish soap but I like to use hot hot water in the sink bc I deal with a lot of salt and salt water at work
As always another great video. Dish soap is perfect. I personally use Saddle soap on mine. I have a pair of 875s as well as the Iron Rangers 8115 with the new vibram sole in Copper Rough and tough. I use a mink oil on my 875a because use them hard and get them wet.
Meh, they're work boots, just clean them and oil them. You're right. Two things that will destroy your boots: dehydration and friction due to dirt/debris. I just used oxalic acid on nice leather dress shoes to lighten them after stripping them down. They're fine after adding ALL the other stuff to make them good again. Bottom line, the boots will last with your method. You may decrease their life some, but you probably won't notice anyway.
What if the boots have mold on them? Do you brush that off first?