CARE INSTRUCTIONS

Care Instructions

Oiling & Conditioning

Quality footwear requires quality care. The leather we use is untreated, which means there is no waxy protective coating that many are used to seeing on store bought leather products. Due to this, our moccasins are built to breathe. In order to maintain its breathability, we recommend specific oils and conditioners to keep the leather soft and supple. Common oils and conditioners we use are:

• • • Bick 4 : this conditioner is best suited for summer and is our most recommended choice. It helps open the pores of the leather and allows it to breathe in hotter weather. This will make for more comfortable wear in warmer temperatures.
    • Neatsfoot Oil : this is another commonly used oil for summer conditioning. It does offer the same benefits as Bick 4, but please note long time usage will eventually darken the leather color. For any moccasins that are not solid black, this oil is not recommended.
    • Mink Oil : this oil is best suited for winter months as it will seal the pores allowing for warmer wear. It will also allow for more water resistance, but will not be waterproof.

Application of these oils and conditioners are best applied using an old rag or sock, but paper towels can be used in a pinch as well. Just like lotioning your own skin, apply until your moccasins are no longer feeling dry or stiff.

Please note that while Saddle Soap is a commonly used product for conditioning and weatherproofing leather, we have noticed it also has a tendency to darken leather over time. Since it utilizes wax, it seals up the leather’s pores for winter wear and can potentially cause buildup within the pores, which may make it difficult to clean out for summer wear. Other oils and conditioners can be used at your own risk as those listed above are the only ones tested long term.

Washing & Cleaning

Our product can be worn in all types of weather, through rain and shine! From dusty renaissance festivals and muddy parking lots, to shoveling snow at home, it is important to keep your moccasins clean. This is especially important if you are around any type of material or chemical that can dry or damage leather (i.e. Ice Melt). Most grime can be removed with a simple sponge bath. Water will not hurt these, so don’t be afraid to scrub them thoroughly. Keep in mind, this can be done at your own convenience depending on where you are wearing them and how dirty they are getting.

• • • If your moccasins get so dirty that sponge bathing them seems like too much of a chore, then do not fret! These moccasins are 100% machine washable! If you choose to do so, please follow the steps below:
    • Make sure your washing machine has no agitator as it can cause damage to your moccasins.
    • Remove the laces and your sheepskin insoles. These are to be washed separately.
    • Set your machine to a gentle cold wash cycle. Washing with water should be enough, but if necessary we have found a small amount of Woolite can help remove any stubborn dirt or grime.
    • When finished, air dry only! Do not apply heat to dry. These will typically take a week on average to dry completely, but will vary on where you live. With taller moccasins, lay down flat to avoid any pesky creasing on the leather. We have also found hanging them with pant clip hangers can be effective in avoiding creasing.
    • Once dry, oil thoroughly.
    • Laces are to be hand washed only. Like the full moccasin, they can be saturated and wiped down. Make sure to oil when dry.
    • Sheep skin insoles can be pulled out at any time to wash separately. These can go into the washing machine on a cold gentle cycle with no detergent. Once done, leave to air dry. When dry, you can fluff them back up (we have found a cat brush to be the most effective and efficient way to do this).

Please note that using the washing machine will also act as a reset button. When you first receive your moccasins, they will be tight and will require stretching. Washing them will tighten the leather back up to how they were upon first receiving them. They will never shrink beyond that. If you had trouble with the stretching process, it would probably be best to keep to hand washing. This can also work in your favor if you are someone who prefers thick socks in the winter or wiggle your toes to the point of over stretching. A washing machine can be the perfect tool to bring it back to its original snug fit.