How to Take Care of Your Boots: A Practical Guide to care for Samelin and AIPI Boots
, by Mikael J Arvid Malm, 9 min reading time
Boots are an investment—especially when they’re handcrafted in Europe by brands like Samelin and AIPI. In this guide, we share simple but effective steps for cleaning, protecting, and maintaining your boots, along with recommended shoe care products from Gogonano. Follow these tips to extend the life of your boots and keep them looking sharp for years.
How to Take Care of Your Boots: The Complete Guide for Samelin & AIPI
Keep your premium leather boots clean, protected, and comfortable with this step‑by‑step care routine. Simple, fast, and proven to extend boot life.
Samelin and AIPI boots are built to last. Crafted in Europe with premium leather and decades of shoemaking expertise, they’re trusted by everyone from professionals to everyday adventurers. But even the toughest boots need proper care. This guide shows you how to clean, protect, and maintain your boots so they stay strong, comfortable, and stylish for years to come.
Why Proper Boot Care Matters
- Boots last longer and resist water, salt, and abrasion.
- Leather stays supple, breathable, and comfortable.
- A rich patina develops over time, enhancing the look.
Good news: the right routine takes just a few minutes—especially with effective care products.
Step 1: Clean Your Boots After Every Use
After each wear, remove dirt, mud, and road salt to prevent damage:
- Brush off loose dirt with a soft brush.
- Wipe with a lightly damp cloth if needed.
- For deeper cleaning, use Gogonano Shoe Cleaner to lift grime without harming leather or stitching.
Pro tip: Never soak boots in water—it weakens leather and adhesives.
Quick checklist
- Remove laces for a thorough clean.
- Use a separate brush for soles and uppers.
- Target salt lines immediately in winter.
Step 2: Protect from Water & Stains
Even though Samelin and AIPI use durable leather, moisture and staining will shorten a boot’s lifespan without protection.
- Spray evenly with Gogonano Protector Spray to create an invisible, breathable shield.
- Reapply every few weeks—or more often in wet or snowy seasons.
- For suede/nubuck, use a dedicated suede brush before spraying.
Step 3: Condition the Leather
Leather gradually dries and can crack. Conditioning keeps it strong and flexible:
- Apply a quality leather conditioner or cream every 2–3 months (more often in harsh climates).
- Spread thinly with a soft cloth, let absorb, then buff to a soft sheen.
- Test on a small area first—some creams slightly darken leather.
For military‑grade Samelin models, conditioning maintains toughness while improving comfort.
Step 4: Dry Your Boots Properly
- Remove insoles and laces; air dry at room temperature.
- Avoid direct heat (radiators, fireplaces, hair dryers)—these can crack leather.
- Stuff with newspaper or use cedar shoe trees to speed drying and reduce odor.
Step 5: Store with Care
- Use boot trees or paper stuffing to maintain shape.
- Keep in a cool, dry place away from sunlight.
- For long‑term storage, use a breathable cotton bag—not plastic.
Bonus Tips
- Rotate pairs if you wear boots daily to let them rest and dry.
- Treat suede and nubuck differently (brush, then protect with spray).
- Replace worn laces and insoles to refresh comfort and fit.
Conclusion
Samelin and AIPI boots are designed for tough conditions—from muddy trails to city streets. With a few minutes of regular care and the right products, your boots will last for years and only look better with age. Take care of your boots, and they’ll take care of you.