Looking after your boots

Congrats! You are now the proud owner of a pair of Zulu Boots.

To get the most out of your boots, please take a moment to get to know the basics of care and maintenance.

If you have lace-ups, it is very important that the lowest loops, near your ankle, are pulled tight and that your heel does not slip up and down when you walk. The same goes for the pull-on boots, please ensure that you tighten the velcro straps or buckles to keep your heel secure. This prevents you from walking over the side of the boots and stretching the leather.

Care Instructions 

In order for your Zulu Boots to keep on giving you the comfort and style that you expect please consider the following:

We know you love these boots, but they need a rest every few days -perspiration build up is a major reason for footwear failure.
Immediate repair is advised as soon as boots start showing signs of wear (Please see repair and resoling policy).
Avoid environments with oils, petrols, diesels, chemicals and solvents as these will corrode and destroy the soles of your boots.
When boots are wet, stuff with paper (not newspaper) to help maintain their shape. Dry slowly using natural air circulation at room temperature - do not subject your boots to a direct heat source. Allow boots to dry for at least 48hrs before wearing them.
Do not machine wash, submerge or soak your boots in water as this damages the glues, leathers and other materials used.  Do not use strong detergents, bleach or ammonia.

Suede Leather Care

Suede is celebrated for being very soft and supple leather. Due to its textured nature and open pores, suede may become dirty and quickly absorb liquids. Below are some tips to help you protect your new boots.

Protecting your footwear

Prevent water spots and oil stains with a silicone spray or a ScotchgardTM product. Simply spray on and allow two hours to dry. We recommend two applications before wearing for the first time, then weekly or monthly treatments depending on how often your footwear is worn.

Cleaning your Footwear

Use an Emory board and toothbrush or suede brush to loosen dirt. Wet the brush, moisten the soiled area and spray with Suede and Leather Cleaner or a gentle baby shampoo. Continue brushing the stain. Rinse the brush and then brush the area with clean water. Stuff the toe with tissue paper (to help maintain shape) and air dry away from sunlight.

Removing Scuff Marks

Use a toothbrush or suede brush and brush back and forth over the scuffed area. Use a pencil eraser to remove the scuff and brush the area clean of debris.

Full-grain & Oiled Leather Boot Care

To maintain the weatherproof characteristics of your boots, you will need to treat them periodically. An initial treatment with leather food will go a long way toward protecting and lengthening the life of your boots. Thereafter, treat them every 3 to 6 months depending on wear and weather conditions.

Wash the dirt and mud off boots with water and mild soap.
Let the boots air dry at room temperature.
Do not dry boots on or near a heat source, it may dry out and stiffen the leather.
After the boots are dry, apply a boot oil or leather food liberally, use your fingers to get it into all the seams and then leave to dry overnight. Wipe off any excess in the morning. Be aware that this may slightly darken the leather.
Using the above system preserves and weatherproofs your boots.
Never use on brushed, suede or silicone treated leathers.

General Care

 Do not over-apply leather waterproofing treatment to your boots. 
Always test a polish or cream on an inconspicuous part of the boot before applying it to the whole boot in case of incompatibility or colour variations. 
Take time to walk your new Zulu Boots in and allow them to take the shape of your feet.
Laces and velcro straps should always be undone before shoes are put on or taken off.