How to Buy
Select your suede. Cow suede (pictured: Marc Fisher LTD Oshi Boots, $299; nordstrom.com) is generally more casual and often heavier, while goat or sheep suede is usually lighter and dressier. Check the heel. Stacked leather heels tend to last longer than suede-covered heels, which may tear more easily. Choose a tone. Earthy taupe and olive are on trend this season; black and dark brown are timeless and less prone to staining.
How to Care
Pretreat. Apply a water-resistant spray, like Kiwi Suede Protector ($8; target.com), before wearing. If boots get wet prior to treatment, water stains may be sealed in. Brush up. Sweep boots weekly in one direction using a suede brush to remove dirt and imperfections. Store properly. During the off-season, keep your boots in dust bags in a cool, dark area to help prevent dust buildup and fading.
How to Repair
Erase water damage. Gently rub a suede brush in circular motions across the affected area when it’s dry. This will help fix discoloration. Reverse salt stains. Rub the spot in circular motions; alternate between using a barely damp sponge and a suede brush. Stuff boots with newspaper while they dry. (If at-home repair techniques don’t work, take boots to a pro.) Protect soles. When soles become worn, have your boots resoled. You can even ask the cobbler to add durable rubber outsoles to the existing thin leather soles.
Our Experts
Michele Carter, senior brand builder at Antonio Melani Marc Fisher, founder and CEO of Marc Fisher Footwear Becky Rapinchuk, founder of cleanmama.net
