WARHorses who ride english likely have a pair of tall boots. They’re great for lessons and necessary for showing. Finding a pair that fits properly can take time and tall boots are a bit of an investment. Once you have a pair, you’ll want to make them last as long as possible. Do you know how to properly care for your tall boots? We’ve got a few tips to help you.

Diligence
It goes without saying that regular cleaning is good practice. After every ride wipe dirt, manure and horse sweat from the surface of your boots with a barely damp cloth or sponge. Crud can ruin your boots quicker than anything by leeching moisture from the leather. Inevitably your boots will suffer discoloration and cracking. Fortunately crud is easily removed. It requires only that you be diligent. Wipe your boots after every use.

Put a Shine on It Sister
Boot cream or boot polish should only be applied to clean boots. Use a soft, clean rag to apply, then buff with a boot polishing brush. Another go using a second clean rag with give your boots an impressive shine.

Don’t Clean with Just Anything
Never use tack or household cleaners on your tall boots. These cleaning agents are too harsh for your fine leather boots. Clean and condition using products specifically designed for tall boots. If you are uncertain about a specific product to use, check the manufacturer’s website or call their customer service line for their recommendation.

Wet Woes
Never set wet boots on a heat duct or fireplace to speed up drying. The leather will crack faster than an egg on Easter morning. Wet boots should be allowed to dry at room temperature. If you wear overshoes on wet days, remove them before storing your tall boots to avoid mildew.

Diligent cleaning and regular shining will give your tall boot investment longer life. Proper storage will give you even more good years. Use boot trees to maintain your tall boot’s shape and the life of the zipper. Plastic boot trees are fine but cedar boot trees offer additional help repelling moisture and closet critters. Be certain your boots are dry before inserting boot trees. Store boots in a temperature-controlled area. Extreme heat and cold are unkind to leather.

You have a pair of tall boots that look great and fit like a dream – congrats. And now you have a few simple tips that will help you to get the most out of your investment.

#WARHorses TIPS