These Raw Boots are clearly among the toughest we made. But they enjoy a little TLC here and there. Here's how to pamper them so they stay with you until your grandchildren ask you to pass them on to them.

Let's start with three basic but highly effective tips:

1. Avoid wearing them for days on end. Leather, like a lot of other things, needs to breathe. Alternate them to make them last that much longer.
2. Invest in a pair of shoe trees, cedar ones if possible. These little pieces of wood will maintain their original shape and absorb moisture. It's the kind of gizmo you'll never regret buying, unlike those fluorescent orange trousers you picked up at the market last summer.
3. Smart storage. Never store them in a humid room or basking in the sun by a window. Humidity warps the leather, the suns fades it. A dry and dark wardrobe is ideal.

You've got three leather options to choose from — each with its own care routine. Here's what you need to know.

For the smooth leather, dark brown

This is the one with extra character. It starts raw and develops a beautiful patina over time.

1. Sort the laces first: take them out before cleaning and wash them separately by hand.
2. Clean, then let breathe: wipe your boots with a clean, slightly damp cloth, then leave them to air-dry (never near a radiator).
3. Feed the leather: apply a polish or cream suited to smooth leather. Check with a specialist to pick the right shade, and always test it on a hidden spot first.
4. Work it in gently: using a clean cloth or polishing brush, rub the boot in circular motions. Leave it to sink in for a few minutes.
5. Buff to a shine: wipe off any excess with a dry cloth and let them dry completely.

For the suede, camel

The softie in the group. More vulnerable to water, so it needs a bit more attention:

1. Keep it away from rain: this leather isn't built for downpours. If you get caught out, let them dry naturally at room temperature — never near a heat source.
2. Take the laces out before waterproofing or cleaning anything.
3. Waterproof BEFORE the first wear: non-negotiable. Spray a waterproofing treatment over the entire surface (laces removed). Repeat every month or every 10 wears or so.
4. Care for them with a suede brush: to lift the fibres and remove dust. Always brush in the direction of the nap.
5. Use a suede eraser to tackle stubborn marks or stains. Rub gently on the affected area.

For the waxed leather, dark brown

The tough one. Holds up well, but still deserves a bit of care:

1. Remove the laces before waterproofing or cleaning.
2. Waterproof BEFORE the first wear: non-negotiable. Apply a waterproofing spray across the whole surface. Repeat regularly — at least once a month or every 10 wears.
3. Avoid heavy rain: even though this leather's hardy, it's still best not to soak it deliberately.
4. Brush regularly when dry: use a soft-bristled brush to shift dust and mud.
5. Revive the waxed finish if needed: if the leather starts to look dull or loses its oily sheen, apply a wax or balm designed for waxed leather. Rub it in with circular motions using a clean cloth, let it absorb, then wipe off the excess.

The great thing about Goodyear assembly is that when the soles start to give up the ghost (which will take a very long time, we assure you), any good shoemaker will be able to resole them. Your Boots can last you for decades with a little butt lift.

So there you have it, you now know everything there is to know about looking after your Raw Boots. If we've missed something or you have any questions hit us on support@asphalte.com or Ig.

We'll be back in touch in a couple of weeks to see how you're getting on.

Until then,

The Asphalte Team