Skip straight to the step-by-step quick guide on waxing your suede boots
Ever thought of waxed suede for your next boot? No? Well neither had I until recently, I’d always seen suede as sensitive fabric that I needed to treat with the uppermost care and attention. But in this reverance it seems I’d been missing a trick.
A waxed suede Chelsea boot is fit to be seen in just about any circle. They’ve got that aged patina, but they can still look as smart as ever. They’re the ultimate flex for both your fancy dinners AND your weekend pub jaunts. For me though, they scream winter walks, gigs, and yeah, even a cheeky motorcycle ride.
Now, let’s cut to the chase. Besides looking dapper, the waxing is practical too. Typical British weather? Sorted. No more fretting over unexpected rain ruining your pristine suede. Because let’s face it, it’s nice not to have to worry about your clobber getting ruined.
Got an old suede pair boots gathering dust? Wax them. Trust me, they’ll come back to life and give you another great option in your wardrobe.
On a personal note, I tried hunting down the perfect pair but struck out. So I thought, why not do it myself? I nabbed a pair of Charles Tyrwhitt Chelsea boots and, with a bit of trepidation, got to waxing. To say I was bricking it would be an understatement. I half expected a disaster, but gents, they turned out top-notch. And when my wife who can rarely match my shoe enthusiasm even gushed over them. I declared it a total success.
In a nutshell, if you’re looking to shake things up in the footwear department, waxed suede Chelsea boots might just be your next obsession. And if you fancy going the DIY route, I say: Dive in, you won’t regret it. Cheers to upping our shoe game!
Step-By-Step Quick Guide On Waxing Suede Boots
Step 1: First, brush the suede to remove any dirt, dust or other debris. For older or dirtier boots, consider using saddle soap to clean ingrained dirt. Allow the boots to dry thoroughly before using the suede brush and moving on to step 2.
Step 2: Take a clean cloth (an old t-shirt works well) and apply a pea-sized amount of clear beeswax.
Step 3: Gently rub the wax onto the boot in circular motions, focusing on a section approximately an inch square.
Step 4: Continue this process for the entirety of the boot. Take care to avoid elasticated areas, but ensure that all stitching is covered, as well as the junction between the upper and the sole.
Step 5: Vigorously scrub the boot with a clean suede brush or a firm-bristled brush. This ensures the wax penetrates deeply into the fabric.
Step 6: Buff the boot using the cloth, adding more wax if needed to ensure the nap lays down smoothly, aiming for a consistent but not overly uniform appearance.
Step 7: Finish by spraying the boots, including the elasticated areas, with a generous coat of waterproofing spray.
You May Find This Charles Marawski Video Useful For The Waxing Part Of The Process
Before And After
Products Used
Grangers G-Wax
Kiwi Shoe Rain & Stain Protector
Suede Brush
Old T-Shirt
Waxed Suede Boots FAQs
Why would I want to wax suede? Isn't suede supposed to remain soft?
While traditional suede is valued for its softness, waxing suede adds a protective layer against the elements, making the boots more suitable for varied weather conditions. The waxing can also enhance the boot’s texture and appearance.
How do I care for my waxed suede boots?
Dust them off regularly using a soft brush. For deeper cleaning, use products designed specifically for waxed suede. If the wax wears off over time, consider re-waxing them to maintain the finish.
Can I wear them in rainy weather?
While waxed suede is more water-resistant than untreated suede, it doesn’t mean they wont show some effects from being out in torrential rain. If they do get wet, let them air dry away from direct heat and then brush them and retreat with wax.
How often should I re-wax my boots?
This depends on how frequently you wear them and the conditions they’re exposed to. On average, re-waxing every 3-6 months should suffice for regular wear. You may wish to do it sooner to restore the look back to being freshly done.
Does the waxing process change the colour of the suede?
Waxing can darken the shade of suede slightly, giving it a richer tone. Always test on an inconspicuous area if you’re considering waxing your boots.
Will waxing make the suede less breathable?
Yes, waxing can reduce the breathability of suede to some extent. However, the enhanced protection and aesthetic appeal often outweigh this minor drawback for many boot enthusiasts.
Can I remove the wax from my suede boots if I change my mind?
While it’s challenging to remove wax completely from suede, professional shoe care services may be able to reduce its appearance and effect. You can also saddle soap, dry and brush your boots, and then treat with a restorer. Though this might not entirely take them back to their pre-waxed state. So think about it carefully before waxing.
