150 Years of Quality: Learn to Keep Up

The Frye Company is the oldest operating shoe company in America, first opened in 1863 in Marlboro, MA. They are currently celebrating their 150th Anniversary with antiqued and limited-edition products, and have just released a coffee-table book focusing on the brand's history, from the craftsmanship process to celebrity fans rocking their boots. We've already done a blog on some of the new products from Frye (if you missed it, click here), but in honor of Frye's longevity, we want you to help you keep your boots in top condition. *

Here's what you'll need:

1.)

Quality Leather Boots, such as the Frye Women's Carson Heel Tab or Dorado Riding (both in Dark Brown), or Erin Work (in black)

2.)

Frye Unisex Cream - Weatherproof Dressing

- OR -

Frye Unisex Leather Weatherproof Spray

3.)

Wood Shoe Trees - Pictured Here are Alden Cedar Shoe Trees

4.) A Soft Cloth - Microfiber will work.

5.)

A Dauber Brush (Collonil Signature Horsehair Application Brush). A Tooth Brush will also work, but you may want to invest in a higher quality brush to keep your boots in top condition.

Before you begin:

Please note that both the Weatherproof Dressing and Spray from Frye are not for use on Suede, Nubuck, Brushed, or Distressed Leathers. They are both oil-based, so they WILL darken the color of your boots. Because of this, most customers prefer not to use these products on light colored leathers. We recommend doing a test with a very small amount of the product on an inconspicuous area such as the back of the heel, upper part, or tongue of the boot to see if you are okay with the minor change in color. Make sure that you protect other surfaces in your work area, as oil-based products will stain many materials.

Clean Your Boots

If your boots have laces, it will probably be best to remove them before waterproofing. Unless your boots are muddy, a quick pass with a boot brush will remove the dirt. A dauber brush can be used to get dirt out of smaller crevices. You can see all of our Shoe Care products here, and decide which method of cleaning your boots works best for you. Make sure that your boots are dry before proceeding to the next step.

Cream Application

The Weatherproof dressing will condition and weatherproof your leather. Begin by spreading a quarter-sized amount of the cream onto the cloth. Then, one small area at a time, rub the cream in a circular motion. You may also use your hands to rub the product in. Then reapply to each small section as it's conditioned. Use the cream sparingly, and take your time. If you are patient, your boots will look a lot better, and they are worth it! Insert shoe-trees to maintain the shape of the boot, and leave overnight to dry.

Spray Application

You have two options: spray directly onto the boot, or spray onto the cloth and then apply to the boot as you would the cream. Because Frye's Weatherproofing spray is a non aerosol product, beginners may find it difficult to create a steady stream and avoid dark spots. Regardless of which method you choose, you will want to spray the bottle onto the cloth or on some newspaper first to get a feel for the best way to spray evenly. After application, allow to dry for 3-5 minutes, then wipe down gently with the soft cloth. Allow to dry entirely before wearing.

Love Them!

Now that you've given your boots a little TLC to help protect them from the Fall and Winter weather, enjoy them to the fullest.

* This information is not meant to replace the manufacturer's instructions, but act as a supplement. Application procedure may vary from product to product. If in doubt, always follow the instructions on the product label or consult the manufacturer.