How to care for my field boots?

Just bought a pair of Ariat Heritage II boots and as much as they are comfy, they are pricey. I intend to keep them 10-15 years at least, maybe in the end of those 10-15 years they will be a little too... icky for showing but for sure they will be used as an exercise boot.

SO Question 1: How often should I condition them? I bought mink oil (the company is Tana) it helps to keep it water resistant (I know to only a certain extent, I won't go showering a horse in them lol), conditioning and softening leather.

2. I know that after each ride I have to wipe them clean from dirt and dust with a damp towel, but do I need to use saddle soap or some kind of cleaning thing too?

3. I know that because I intend to keep them for like... forever, I should change the insoles every so years. Well what insoles should I get and where? And how often? I know it depends but are there signs I can look for that will indicate me that it's time?

Thanks!

The only things I use on my boots are a damp sponge when they get dirty and boot polish. You want to be very careful what kind of conditioners/cleaners you use as many will take the shine off the boots and make them dull. I started using boot polish on my paddock boots a few years ago and was AMAZED by how much it extended the life of my boots! It conditions them and gives them a waterproof finish. Ariat sells replacement insoles that fit their boots. You'll be able to tell when they start to wear out, they won't be as cushiony. It's not crucial though. I've never bought an insole in my life.

Oh! This might go without saying, but don't ever polish the inside of your boots! :) there you can put conditioner, but no polish!

What sort of polish? Like what company? Thanks :) Hahaha yes I know, no polishing inside... I don't even condition inside.

DON'T USE TANA! If possible use Kiwi, if you don't have Kiwi, see if you know anyone in the military or service in your area and they will give you the best products. Tana isn't the greatest and can do more harm then good if not used properly.

I think specially made riding boot polish might be good too. I know Dad used to have some when he wore dress shoes.

Uuuuuuuuugh! I thought I wasn't being paranoid.. my mom was telling me to calm down but this morning as I tried the tana I swore that something wasn't right... it wasn't... it didn't look right... ****. I spent 8 bucks on it and the show maker said it was good. :( Thanks Emily, I will try and find kiwi. Or ask my trainer if the tack shop at my barn has anything.

My friend had a pair of Ariats paddock boots (the Cobalt kind, the ones that cost $200) for 6 months before they started falling apart. She called the Ariat company and they said because she didn't use the Ariat brand polish on them every single day they weren't to blame. UGH.

That being siad, I use Kiwi!

Not to jack the thread or anything but I have a question.

When I polish mine (only before shows, really) I have a kit. I get the grime off with a special brush. Then I swirl the polish in with another brush. Then, I wipe it with the little wipe that makes them pretty shiney.

After that I was taught to "seal" it with flame. I get a lighter and go over them a bit and it makes them extra shiney and makes the shine last longer. Is this bad for the boots though?

A flame? Never heard of that method but if it seems to work and you don't see your boots being damaged, then it must be ok. Though I admit I would be too terrified to do that to my boots. :P

^

I know! I was so scared when someone told me to do it but its really hard to mess it up :)