I have two pairs of Meindl Bhutans bought at the same time. I’ve been using one pair more heavily and recently treated them with Meindl Sportwax for the first time. I knew the finish would change, but I hadn’t realized how much I’d miss the nubuck texture.
Does anyone have advice on maintaining the original nubuck look and feel on my second pair? I’d like to keep one pair for everyday use that doesn’t necessarily need to be as mud and waterproof as my hiking pair. I’m in the UK, though, so they will still need to hold up in mud and puddles. If these will just get shabby over time, I might as well treat them all now.
Meindl UK has care instructions for keeping the original nubuck texture. For a less drastic change, try the conditioner and proofer instead of Sportwax. Ultimately, they’re built for mud and wet conditions, so as long as you care for them, you should be good!
Payne said: @Tan
Thanks! The conditioner seems like a good compromise. I’ll keep them sturdy for sure!
You’re welcome! I had a friend with worn Meindl Borneo boots, and after using Sporting Wax, they held up great but did get a darker finish. Leather boots just need some TLC to last a long time.
Try something like Grangers Footwear Repel Plus if you want to avoid Sportwax; it doesn’t condition as much but keeps a nubuck look. I prefer the waxed look, so I treat mine regularly. Nubuck on my Asolo boots holds up well despite wetting out, though it does get a bit ‘tufty’ after lots of use.
Payne said: @Mai
Do you find that lack of water resistance bothers you? I’m considering that option but wondering how they handle mud and scuffs over time.
They do wet out, but I don’t mind for lighter use. The nubuck does get a bit rough over time, but it doesn’t show much damage. I rotate between a few pairs for different uses, but my Meindls always get Sportwax and look great.