To preserve the lifespan of your Pilote & Filles footwear (flexibility, appearance, and waterproofing), it is important to keep them clean and free of debris or mud. Remove the laces, then with a soft, damp cloth, wipe away dirt as well as calcium or salt stains. You can also use a soft-bristle brush and lightly rinse with water if needed. Do not use soap. Also, wipe the outsole to remove debris to maintain traction and prevent premature deterioration. Air dry your footwear.
If your footwear is wet, remove the laces and removable insoles to air dry them separately in a dry, ventilated area. Never place your footwear or removable insoles too close to a heat source like a radiator or stove, as this could deform them.
For styles with untreated (non-waterproof) leather, a waterproofing protector that does not contain silicone can be applied.
There are several products on the market that can help make leather waterproof. These products are generally available in aerosol, lotion, or cream form. The type of product should be chosen according to the leather of your P&F footwear (full-grain, oiled, nubuck...) and the manufacturer's instructions for the protective product.
It is important to note that even with waterproofing treatment, leather is not completely waterproof and can still be damaged if exposed to large amounts of water.
Also, the effectiveness of waterproofing can vary depending on the type of leather and the product used. It is therefore recommended to test the product on a small, non-visible area before applying it to the entire shoe. Additionally, waterproofing should be repeated regularly to maintain effectiveness.
IMPORTANT: NEVER USE A PRODUCT CONTAINING SILICONE. This will destroy the protective layer on the leather and may compromise the waterproofing and adhesion of the sole glue.
For footwear made of waterproof leather with sealed seams, it is not necessary to apply protective products
. For styles with a waterproof membrane, adding a waterproofing product can help maintain the leather's appearance and extend the footwear's lifespan.
To keep the rubber of your footwear in good condition, simply store them in a dark environment that is neither too dry nor too humid. Application of product is not necessary.
PU boots can be fragile to heat. Exposing the boots to a heat source can result in deformation. Lightweight and comfortable, they deserve special care and should be stored in good conditions to preserve their unique characteristics. Do not dry the boots directly under the sun or other warm light source. Do not dry in a dryer, in front of a window, a radiator, a hair dryer, or any other artificial heat source.
