Preserving my Legendary L.L. Bean boots

If you are like me, you have that one pair of boots that you just can't get rid of.
So, for all you sentimental types, here are 7 steps to restoring, preserving and ensuring that your favorite pair of boots last you another thousand miles.

Step #1: Clean boots, take out soles, remove shoe laces, put oven on low.

Step #2: Melt Mink Oil

My Mink Oil came in a metal can, so I had to hit it with some flame to make it nice and melty.

Step #3: After the oven has been warmed up for 10 minutes, place boots in oven.

...And you thought that I was kidding about that oven thing...

Step #4: Remove boots, apply Mink Oil. Be sure to pay special attention to seams!

  Step #5: Place boots back in oven for 8-10 minutes.

This is what my boots looked like beforehand.
Notice how rigid and dry they look.

Step #6: Remove boots from oven, let cool for 5 minutes. Then, add soles and laces.



Just out of the oven!

Notice how the color changed to a rich brown!
They are soft and supple now.

Step #7: Put boots on. Walk up to the mirror. Look down. Look awesome.

There you go!

Now take your boots, hold them up to your ear and listen to them thank you!

More wearing & tearing!

-Anthony

The Finished Product!

“One must always have one's boots on and be ready to go.”
Michel de Montaigne

PS: I am not sure how this process works on all leathers (Suede leather for example) however, for kicks like mine ... it works like a gem!