Product??

[u/daveontherun]

I like brushing and applying good stuff to my boots or shoes in general. I have heard around here not to apply nothing to my Hawthorne’s . I definitely don’t want them to darken. Any product suggestions??

[u/Ok_Economist6783]

Don’t do anything else to the outside uppers than a natural waterproof spray (Saphir Invulner) and nylon brushing to remove dust, brass brushing to even the nap. You can condition the welt once in a while with RW welt brush (very useful). Once or twice a year, not once a week. If you feel the need, you can apply some Cleaning Lotion and very thin conditioner like Nappa Lotion to the inside where full grain is exposed, even the insole. They are gorgeous from factory, don’t risk to ruin their look.

[u/daveontherun → u/Ok_Economist6783]

I put some wool insoles from Viberg inside. So better Saphir Invulner than the Reno??

[u/Ok_Economist6783 → u/daveontherun]

Again, nothing is really needed except brushing with a suede brush. If you want, you can spray Invulner outside. Renovateur is meant to condition full grain leather, inside of this boot. No need to apply some when new except if you need to soften some areas that give hot spots. Not enough care is better than too much with heritage boots.

[u/daveontherun → u/Ok_Economist6783]

How do you condition the welt? I have a nylon brush i get in that little space between upper and sole, is that the welt??

[u/Ok_Economist6783 → u/daveontherun]

The welt is the dark brown leather belt stitched to the sole (and upper but this part is invisible). Be carefull not to hit the upper ! If you don’t have some oil or RW natural conditioner, Renovateur can be used. Don’t over apply any product and not too often. Even this is not mandatory, it helps for sole flex and future resoles.

[u/daveontherun → u/Ok_Economist6783]

Isn’t a welt brush just a narrow brush? What does it matter if you touch the upper?

[u/Ok_Economist6783 → u/daveontherun]

Yes a very narrow one. It would darken and clog the nap.