Getting ready and have started evaluating gear. I noticed my boots (rocky SV2) could probably use some attention on the leather uppers. I know some applications can actually break the leather down so before I start digging around on the Internet I will ask the QJ community for some advice.

The SV2 are without question the best portage boots I have worn. On my recent Georgian Bay trip I wore a pair of OTB boots just to get some usage out of them. They will never see the Canadian Shield country again and will be regulated to the salt water boot destroying Everglades. Quite frankly, and with all due respect to fans of the OTB, I was not impressed (understatement) especially after having worn the SV2.

But I digress. They need some attention and not quite sure what to apply. Doesn't have to be waterproof but just want to put some juice back in. Suggestions?

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been using this for years - have 30+ year old sorrels that the leather is pretty much good as new - use it on gloves and anything else

a little heat (applied careflly) softens the was and lets it soak into the leather.  careful with the heat - most boots nowadays have soles glued on with glue that softens if heated.

Not sure what to do. The uppers on the boots are almost suede like but I have not read anything which would lead me to believe they are suede. Supposed to be some sort of high tech heat resistant leather. What does that mean? Googled SV2 care but not much came up.

Pretty sure care for differing types of leather is paramount. I used to use a lot of sno-seal when I spent winters in Michigan......doesn't it break down the leather somewhat? Can't remember, so loooong ago and I'm getting old and forgetful. Hit the big 54 today.......yikes! Getting into codgerland. What were we talking about anyways?

When I was a kid I bought a baseball glove. Dad mentioned I should oil it so of course I used 10W-30. I still use that glove to play catch with my kid. The leather on the inside has pretty much rotted away but the outside, the part I rubbed the 10W-30 into, is worn on the edges but otherwise in great shape considering it's age.

You should try 10W-30 MT.  up Happy B-day!

got to wondering how many neat's feet it takes to make the oil - so to wikipedia:


Neatsfoot oil is a yellow oil rendered and purified from the shin bones and feet (but not the hooves) of cattle. "Neat" in the oil's name comes from an old name for cattle. Neatsfoot oil is used as a conditioning, softening and preservative agent for leather. In the 18th century, it was also used medicinally as a topical application for dry scaly skin conditions.

"Prime neatsfoot oil" or "neatsfoot oil compound" are terms used for a blend of pure neatsfoot oil and non-animal oils, generally mineral or other petroleum-based oils.