Shoe Care Necessities: Suede Care Set
Suede is a fabric that can instil terror in the unconverted. It’s seen as a delicate fabric and I can understand why. The thought of getting a soft and supple pair of suede loafers wet can be a little overwhelming. It is however, a little more robust than that. In fact, I find it easier to care for than leather.
Firstly, you can waterproof it. Unlike leather, something like Saphir’s Super Invulner or even Crep Protect will add a barrier of protection against the elements, allowing rain to bead-up and roll-off. Secondly, a quick brush with a suede brush will rid your shoes of any surface marks. Lastly, you can shampoo and re-colour suede footwear. It’s not quite as flimsy as you thought is it?
The following are what you will need to properly care for your suede shoes. As with calf leather products, for suede I recommend Saphir’s Medaille d’Or range. I’m not a corporate stooge, I’m just a fan of their products. They’re generally derived from natural ingredients and quite simply, they make your shoes look good.
Crepe Suede Brush
This is a natural crepe brush used for removing dust, debris and refreshing the look of the suede, particularly slighter longer suede. You will also use this to renovate the nap after recolouring. Buy it here.
Suede Wire Brush
This is a long-handled brush with synthetic and wire bristles. This is a better brush for brushing shorter suede. My Magnanni loafers are a very fine suede and I (gently) use this brush to refresh their look. Buy it here.
Saphir Medaille D'Or Gommadin Suede Eraser
For more stubborn marks, this suede eraser should be rubbed gently over the spot to remove it. The eraser will crumble a little which is normal. Remove the debris left behind with a suede brush, crepe or wire. Buy it here.
Saphir Medaille D'Or Omni Nettoyant Suede Multicleaner
For when your shoes need cleaning not maintaining, this shampoo is what should be used. Simply mix the formula with a little water and apply with the supplied brush. Buy it here.
Saphir Medaille D'Or Tinted Renovator Suede Spray
This tinted suede spray is an all-in-one nourisher and re-colourer. It will help make your suede shoes look new again. It’s available in four colourways- black, neutral, mid-brown and dark brown. Although there are more colours available that isn’t the Medaille d’Or range. Buy it here.
Saphir Medaille D'Or Super Invulner Suede Protector Spray
This should not only be applied fortnightly as an all-round protector for your suede shoes, but it should also be used as the final top layer after re-colouring your shoes. Probably the most important part of your suede care routine; prevention is always better than the cure! Buy it here.
As always, my suggestions are for an ideal world scenario. If your budget is a little tight, then start with the crepe brush and the Super Invulner spray and you can buy the rest as you go. These two items though are what will keep your shoes looking sharper for longer and which will help protect your investment.
Be sure to subscribe for future updates. I’ll be posting more in-depth articles for proper shoe care including a step-by-step on how to use the items listed above properly. Let me know in the comments if you bought any of my suggestions and how you’re getting on with them.
Thanks for reading,
Terry
