Care videos

How do I care for different types of leather?

Oil-tanned leather – Roughout leather – Smooth leather

1. Oil-Tanned Leather

Oil-tanned leather

The S.B. Foot Tanning Company (owned by Red Wing) is renowned for its oil-tanned leather, which is used to craft a wide range of timeless Red Wing models. This leather is water, stain and sweat resistant, and has a natural look and feel, as fewer surface finishing processes are applied, allowing the natural beauty of the leather to shine through. Oil-tanned leather is exceptionally durable and has been used to make countless work boots throughout Red Wing's 100-year history.

1. Clean

Easy cleaning

Remove any dirt with warm water and a soft brush. Then wipe with a clean, dry cloth.

Thorough cleaning

For heavily soiled areas, apply Red Wing Shoes Leather Cleaner with a clean cloth or brush. Wipe off the cleaner with a damp cloth and allow the leather to dry.

2. Conditioning

Conditioning protects the surface and extends the life of your shoes. Use Red Wing Natural Boot Oil, Mink Oil or All Natural Leather Conditioner. You can apply these conditioners with your fingers, a soft cloth or a sponge. The recommended care product is listed with every Red Wing product.

3. Protect

Add extra protection for your shoes. Red Wing Leather Protector provides an invisible shield against water, dirt, oil and mud.

Videos about the different types of leather:

Oil Tanned Leather

Amber Harness Leather

Briar Oil Slick Leather

Oro Legacy Leather

Copper Rough & Tough Leather without darkening.

Copper Rough & Tough Leather with darkening.

2. Roughout Leather

The suede leather is produced using the reverse suede technique at Red Wing's own SB Foot Tanning Company. While most tanneries split and divide the hide, thinning and weakening it to create the rough suede surface, Red Wing simply uses the other side of the hide. This way, we avoid splitting or thinning our full-grain hides. ‘This makes our suede just as strong and durable as our other leathers.’

1. Clean

Gently rub the edge of the suede eraser over the stained area. Apply more pressure for deep stains and marks. If the stain and dirt remain, wet both the eraser and the stain with clean water and repeat the rubbing process. Allow to dry, then brush over with the suede brush to remove any water stains. This will also refresh the suede and remove any eraser residue.