First Aid Kit

Ask 100 bootblacks what they keep in their kits and you'll probably get 100 different answers. From my experience, people use what works best for them. If you are new to polishing, allow yourself the freedom to experiment. Ask around, but stick with what works for you. There is no "right or wrong"…except for using Mop & Glo, that is always wrong.

Here are the items I prefer:

• Kiwi Saddle Soap: my first choice for saddle soap. I've used it for decades.
• Kiwi Shoe Polish: best for high shine & touch ups. I do not recommend Kiwi's Parade Gloss as it tends to leave a residue/build up over time.
• Lincoln Stain Wax Shoe Polish: for a rich over-all shine. Sometimes I use Kiwi on the toes and Lincoln on the rest of the boot.
• Huberd's Shoe Grease and Huberd's Shoe Oil: use grease on heavy leather like work boots or motorcycle jackets & chaps; oil on finer garment leather such as gloves and clothing.
• Star makes quality 100% horse hair brushes. They make brushes both for applying saddle soad and for buffing leather. These brushes are usually easy to find at cobblers and shoe repair stores.

Since we are talking boots, here are two of my favorite brands:

• Wesco: These boots are pricey, and worth every penny. They even do custom work. Email them for details.
• Red Wing: Durable and long lasting. My first pair I had for nearly 20 years. I got rid of them only because my foot had grown. Contact their customer service at customer.service@redwingshoe.com.