Best Cowboy Boot Conditioners | For Leather and Suede Boots

Conditioning cowboy boots is an important step when you want to ensure your boots last long, always have a new look and stay in good shape.

There are so many conditioners on the market, it’s not difficult to choose a suitable one.

However, some conditioners will be more favored by cowboy boot collectors and longtime cowboy boot lovers.

Besides, each type of conditioner can also bring different effects to your cowboy boots, which are:

• Keeping cowboy boots more durable
• Giving cowboy boots a new look
• Making cowboy boots waterproof

And among them, some also darken cowboy boots.

Today, we’ll tell you all you need to know about conditioners. How to use them and what are the best conditioners for your cowboy boots?

Let’s get it started!

In a hurry? Here are your top 3 picks!

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How do you condition cowboy boots?

Before I introduce you to cowboy boot conditioner products, we think that you need some advice on how to care for boots, let’s take a look!

But if you already knew how to condition boots, just scroll down from this section!

How to condition leather cowboy boots?

Conditioning leather cowboy boots is quite simple because there are many products on the market for this purpose.

I will introduce you to 3 main steps:

Step 1: Clean leather cowboy boots

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Always keep in mind to use specialized products to clean the leather.

Do not use brushes that are too hard to scrub or they could adversely affect the leather surface quality of cowboy boots.

Unlike leather conditioner products, you do not have to rinse with water.

After cleaning cowboy boots with leather cleaner products, wipe them with a damp cloth or soft cloth to avoid the backlog of cleaning chemicals.

Step 2: Apply leather conditioner

After cleaning your leather cowboy boots, apply leather conditioner to them.

As for this method, you can spray directly on them, or spray on a towel and wipe on the surface of cowboy boots.

Use a horsehair brush or towel to thoroughly buff the surface of the boots. This ensures leather conditioner penetrates deeper and more evenly.

Step 3: Wait for the leather conditioner to absorb into the leather of cowboy boots

You can also use a hairdryer to dry the conditioner more quickly. Repeat step 2 if necessary (leather boots are too thick and the conditioner cannot penetrate inside deeply).

Besides, we have shown you how to preserve and clean cowboy boots in the right way, for specific types of boots. You can see more here.

How do you condition suede cowboy boots? (Can be used for both rough-out leather or nubuck)

Compared to leather cowboy boots, suede cowboy boots are much more difficult to store and clean. You need to pay attention more.

Suede cowboy boots are easily scratched or dry and stiff, be sure to take care of them carefully to remain soft, beautiful, and durable.

We have specific instructions on how to store and clean suede cowboy boots here.

Let’s move on with some basic steps to condition suede cowboy boots:

Step 1: Clean suede cowboy boots

The sure thing about cleaning suede boots is that you have to use the right brush. Because suede is softer and more flexible than leather, it is vulnerable to hard bristles.

Besides, remember to use exclusive cleaning solutions for suede cowboy boots.

After scrubbing cowboy boots with a brush and cleaning solution, use a soft towel to dry the suede cowboy boots.

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Step 2: Apply suede conditioner

Similar to leather cowboy boots, you can spray directly or spray on a towel and rub your suede cowboy boots.

Wait for the conditioner to penetrate into the suede cowboy boots.

You can use a hair dryer to accelerate the penetration of the conditioner into the suede. However, please note that do not set a too high temperature.

Or a better way is to use a suede brush to scrub the surface of suede cowboy boots again. This allows the conditioner to penetrate deeply and evenly over the entire surface of the suede boots.

Step 3: Wait for the cowboy boots to dry

Make sure that the suede cowboy boots are dry after you finish the care process.

Water is the number one enemy of suede, don’t let them get wet. Use a hairdryer or natural wind to dry them out.

Best Cowboy Boot Conditioners

Okay, now I’m going to tell you the 5 best conditioners to use on cowboy boots, including cowboy boots made from leather and suede.

However, if your cowboy boots are made from exotic leather (ostrich, lizard, caiman, etc.) there are more caveats.

So we have a guide on how to care for cowboy boots made from exotic leather here!

For leather cowboy boots

Most cowboy boots are made from leather, they are durable, beautiful and mold your feet.

However, like human skin, they are very susceptible to drying, leading to discoloration and cracking. That’s why you need a leather conditioner for your boots.

Applying the conditioner to cowboy boots every 4 to 6 months will keep them in the best condition, restore color, quality, increase durability, etc.

1. Leather Honey

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An extremely famous brand of leather conditioner for over 50 years is Leather Honey. It always satisfies millions of customers all over the world.

Just put a little on cowboy boots (it doesn’t need to be applied continuously and for months like other products, a small amount is enough) and wait for them to penetrate into the inside of the boots.

And wait for great results.

Leather Honey product makes your boots waterproof and stain-free. It helps old leather regain fresh colors and keeps them soft.

From there, your boots are revived and flexible again.

Some people reported that their cowboy boots got darkened after using this product. However it’s not too much, and still at an acceptable level. So you won’t need to worry too much about this problem.

Another big plus of this conditioner is that it doesn’t change or discolor the stitching of cowboy boots. This is a huge advantage that you cannot ignore if you do not want to spend too much time cleaning cowboy boots.

2. Bickmore Exotic

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As one of the hardcore fans of cowboy boots with decades of experience, you must have at least one pair of exotic boots in your boot closet.

Thus, Bickmore Exotic is an item you cannot ignore.

The way you take care of exotic boots is not the same as what you do with cowhide boots.

For example, caiman cowboy boots, if not used with the right conditioner, will always have a rough, cracked, dry and lifeless appearance. They need a really good moisture-retaining conditioner to have a richer and more luxurious look.

Bickmore Exotic is a good choice, it can help boots made from reptile skin – a type of leather that is extremely difficult to care for – retain their best qualities.

In addition, I also used this product on ostrich boots. And what I got are good results! My ostrich boots still retain their usual softness but the color is noticeably improved (darker).

You should try them too!

3. Bickmore Bick 4 Leather Conditioner

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This product is used by many cowboy boots lovers. It was born for serving your beloved cowboy boots.

That’s the Bickmore Bick 4 Leather Conditioner. It is the favorite item on the display shelves of many cowboy boot collectors.

It gives your cowboy boots the care and protection that they deserve. Bickmore Bick 4 is best for cleaning, protecting leather boots (from stains), softening and maintaining leather skins…

Only 4 simple steps: Clean – Apply – Dry – Buff, you have new and long-lasting boots.

Arguably, this is the most widely used conditioner of many die-hard cowboy boots fans. Because it is very easy to apply and can be used for different types of cowboy boots (including exotic ones). It is quickly effective and keeps cowboy boots in top condition.

Besides, Bickmore Bick 4 satisfies the fans because it won’t darken leather.

Though some claimed it might darken leather to a lesser extent.

4. Obenauf’s Heavy Duty LP Leather Conditioner

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You might think that using leather conditioner products makes your boots unbreathable. The problem is solved with this product.

Since Obenauf’s products are completely natural, the leather of your cowboy boots is not only breathable, but it is soft and flexible as well.

Heavy Duty LP restores the colors of boots that have lost their original color due to the sun or the effects of rain. It makes your boots waterproof and protects them from oil, sand, salt, etc.

Natural products are always safe and reliable, am I right?

I call this heavy armor for your cowboy boots. If the above products mostly help nourish your cowboy boots, this product has its own strong point of providing excellent cowboy boot protection.

However, there are some complaints that this product can darken your cowboy boots. So, I prefer using it for my dark cowboy boots or ones that follow me to the field.

5. Sof Sole Mink Oil

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Mink oil is an extremely popular product for the maintenance and protection of leather.

Specifically, mink oil is resistant to dirt, sand, salt and water. It can restore the original colors of your cowboy boots as well.

You can use it for smooth or grain leather.

It can be said that mink oil is the most common oil used on cowboy boots. It can nourish and protect your cowboy boots against external factors.

In addition, its affordable price and ease of use make it a must-have for any collector of cowboy boots.

6. Angelus Reptile Exotic Skin Cleaner Conditioner

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A product that you cannot miss if you own cowboy boots made from reptile skin in the house – is Angelus Reptile Exotic Skin Cleaner Conditioner.

This is a specialized product to condition boots made from reptile skin such as python, crocodile caiman, etc. These are luxurious, expensive-looking leathers that are certainly not easy to care for.

Angelus with the ability to moisturize and protect the scales from cracking or even falling off.

What I especially like about this product is that it is extremely moisturizing, I hate the feeling of dryness when I look at the old caiman boots in the corner. The Angelus revived it excellently.

It’s a miracle!

7. Chemical Guys Leather Cleaner and Conditioner

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Every family should have this product in their home.

You can apply it for your cowboy boots or even car seats, interiors, jackets, etc.

I bet none of us like cleaning. But with Chemical Guys’ leather cleaner and conditioner, you would enjoy cleaning as it is easy to use.

Apply it and Bum! You get your boots flawless in a flash.

This product is easy to use and effective for repelling all stains, oils… without leaving residue such as soaps.

You can count on this product to make your cowboy boots youthful and great again.

This type of product works well even when you use it on cowboy boots with multicolored stitching, because it does not change the color of the stitching, but keeps the stitching bright.

For suede, nubuck or rough-out cowboy boots

Unlike leather conditioners, suede (or nubuck, rough-out) leather conditioner products are just a few and more difficult to find.

Perhaps because the characteristics of suede are harder to maintain. You will need a lot of time to take care of them.

Suede gets dirty and absorbs water easily. If you don’t take care of your boots properly, they can be dry and hard, then deteriorate quickly and lose their flexibility.

1. Care & Cool Suede and Nubuck Conditioner

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Well, finding the right conditioner for suede cowboy boots is really not easy. The number of suede cowboy boots is not many, and so is the conditioner for them.

But I feel very satisfied with Care & Cool Suede and Nubuck Conditioner. This special product was born to ensure your suede cowboy boots stay in top condition and are fully protected.

One of the special features of this product is that it penetrates deep into the pores of the boots, restoring their moisture, oil and elasticity. Your boots will regain their vitality!

In addition, this product also protects cowboy boots against water, the number one enemy of suede and nubuck.

This is exactly the product you are looking for!

2. Gear Aid Revivex Suede and Fabric Boot Care Kit with Spray, Cleaner, Brush and Eraser

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The Gear Aid Revivex Suede and Fabric Boot Care Kit is the ultimate solution for maintaining and protecting your cowboy boots.

This all-in-one kit ensures your boots remain in excellent condition.

With the concentrated suede cleaner included, you can safely remove dirt and grime from your suede or nubuck cowboy boots.

It effectively restores their natural beauty without causing any damage.

The water-repellent spray in the kit provides exceptional protection against water and stains. With proper care, it can help your cowboy boots look new for longer.

It also enhances breathability, ensuring your feet stay cool and dry even during long rides.

The kit includes a brush and eraser to tackle dirt, debris, and scuffs. The brush wipes tough particles, while the eraser eliminates scuffs, maintaining the polished appearance of your cowboy boots.

Suitable for all types of suede, nubuck, and fabric boots, this versatile kit is a must-have for any cowboy boot enthusiast.

It helps prolong the lifespan of your boots, keeping them in top shape for countless adventures.

In summary, the Gear Aid Revivex Suede and Fabric Boot Care Kit provides superior protection and maintenance for your cowboy boots.

With its effective cleaning power, water-repellent properties, and versatile usage, it is an essential product for preserving the quality and longevity of your cherished cowboy boots.

3. Bickmore Gard-More Water & Stain Repellent

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It can be said that the Bickmore brand is the pride of the United States.

Not only favored in the leather conditioner product line, but Bickmore suede conditioner products are also very popular.

It protects your cowboy boots comprehensively and extends the lifetime of suede cowboy boots.

By simply spraying a thin layer of Bickmore solution on cowboy boots after cleaning, you can wear boots regardless of rain and sun.

Just like the Bickmore Bick 4 for leather cowboy boots, this is a highly effective product for suede cowboy boots.

It can protect, nourish and ensure your cowboy boots are always in good condition. Besides, it rarely darkens your cowboy boots.

4. Refreshed Shoe Cleaner & Conditioner

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The REFRESHED Shoe Cleaner & Conditioner Kit is a must-have for cowboy boot enthusiasts. This all-in-one kit provides everything you need to effectively clean and protect your boots.

With its powerful formula, the cleaner effortlessly cuts through dirt and grime, restoring your cowboy boots to their original beauty.

The conditioner nourishes and safeguards the boot’s fabric, ensuring long-lasting quality.

Equipped with a shoe scrub featuring penetrating bristles and a classic wooden handle, this kit tackles tough stains and ingrained dirt with ease.

What sets this product apart is its non-toxic formula, making it safe for the whole family.

It works wonders on various materials, including leather, suede, nubuck and rough-out cowboy boots.

In summary, the REFRESHED Shoe Cleaner & Conditioner Kit is a convenient and essential solution for keeping your cowboy boots in top shape.

Its powerful cleaning action, nourishing conditioner, and non-toxic formula make it an invaluable asset for maintaining the quality and appearance of your cherished cowboy boots.

5. Angelus Genuine Professional Mink Oil Conditioner Spray

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The Angelus Genuine Professional Mink Oil Conditioner Spray is the perfect solution for maintaining and preserving your beloved cowboy boots.

This high-quality conditioner offers a range of benefits that ensure your boots stay in excellent condition.

This conditioner not only softens and lubricates your boots but also waterproofs them, adding a protective layer that prevents stains and water spots.

It effectively extends the life of your leather cowboy boots by preventing cracking and drying.

Unlike other products, Angelus Mink Oil will not rot stitches, ensuring the durability of your boots remains intact.

This versatile conditioner works wonders on various materials, including leather, suede, nubuck and rough-out.

Whether your cowboy boots have a smooth or textured finish, this conditioner has got you covered.

With its convenient aerosol can, the Angelus Mink Oil Conditioner Spray allows for easy application.

Simply spray it directly onto your boots to retain the moisture and condition them, providing long-lasting protection.

We can say the Angelus Genuine Professional Mink Oil Conditioner Spray is the ultimate care solution for cowboy boots.

6. Saphir Medaille d’Or Nubuck & Suede Renovator & Conditioning

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The Saphir Medaille d’Or Nubuck & Suede Renovator & Conditioning spray is the perfect choice for maintaining and revitalizing your cherished cowboy boots.

This premium suede spray offers a range of benefits that keep your boots looking new and protected.

With sweet almond oil, this spray can preserve napped leather texture while providing a protective barrier against water stains.

It nourishes and conditions your suede boots, ensuring they stay in optimal condition throughout the seasons.

Its silicone-free formula ensures that your beloved cowboy boots, crafted from exquisite suede, receive gentle and effective care.

You can trust this spray to protect and enhance the quality of your suede boots without causing any harm.

Their suede renovator spray is designed to provide exceptional protection and cleaning for suede cowboy boots.

The Saphir Medaille d’Or Nubuck & Suede Renovator & Conditioning spray is the superior choice for maintaining and protecting your cowboy boots.

How often should you condition cowboy boots?

The frequency of conditioning your cowboy boots depends on how often you use them or what material your cowboy boots are made of.

For example, your cowboy boots are made of cowhide, and you wear them more than 3 days a week. You will need to condition them about every 4 or 5 months.

But if you wear them less, you only need to condition them at least every 6 months.

However, if your cowboy boots are made from some kind of leather that easily gets dried and cracked such as lizard or snakeskin, you will need to condition them every 3 months if used regularly.

Otherwise, if you don’t wear them often, you still need to condition them every 6 months.

Snakeskin and lizard are prone to dryness, you need to moisturize them more often than cowhide.

Before you leave

A pair of boots can last a very long time, more than 12 years (from my personal experience). However, you also need to take care of them so that they can serve you for a long time.

Conditioning cowboy boots is one of the most mandatory and necessary tasks to retain the durability and beauty of cowboy boots.

Knowing how to condition cowboy boots is not enough, you must choose the right conditioner for the right type of boots.

I love using Bickmore Exotic for my 2 pairs of python boots and caiman belly. But I prefer to use Leather Honey for cowhide boots.

This is the key that makes my number of boots for 15 years only increase, not decrease at all!

Good luck!

Jay Gatz

Howdy y’all, and welcome to From The Guest Room, your ultimate guide to all things Western! I’m Jay Gatz, a lifelong cowboy boot enthusiast with over 5 years of experience in the Western style world. I’m excited to share my knowledge with you and help you discover the perfect cowboy boots and western gear to elevate your style. Let’s explore the rich history and timeless appeal of Western fashion together!