Leather cleats offer different benefits to players among them durability. A leather upper works amazing in molding to the feet and it therefore offers players that comfortable fit. Comfort is among the elements that can impact on player performance and hence getting the right soccer cleats is of importance. But the best experience does not only rely on selecting the right shoes, but also putting in measures to keep them in good condition so you have a pleasant experience every time you use the boots.
Leather cleats deserve to be accorded good care, especially considering that they can be expensive. If you want to enjoy the durability and functionality of the cleats then you must ensure that you take good care of your pair. It all starts with finding a snug, comfortable fit; remember leather forms to the feet, but does not shrink in length.
Wear and remove the shoes properly
When wearing your leather cleats, loosen the laces so you have an easy time slipping your foot in. Avoid stepping on the heel back when doing this because you will only end up damaging the heel and affect the lifespan. You should also ensure that the laces are untied when removing the shoes.
Get rid of dirt immediately after play
If you have been playing on muddy grounds, always make a point of removing the mud and any other particles as soon as possible. This is something you can simply do by clapping the shoes together and it is something that will help the material breathe and dry appropriately. This simple act will also help keep your bag clean!
Allow them to breathe
The last thing you want is to overuse your soccer cleats. It is most advisable that you change into sandals after games or practice. You should also consider getting more than one pair of boots for your play and practice so you can let them breathe in turns to keep them in good shape. Rotating between shoes reduces wear and tear, especially during soccer seasons.
Clean the leather as appropriate
Use warm soapy water and a cloth to clean your leather cleats. It is important to make sure that the detergent used is mild. Instead of submerging the shoes in the water, opt to brush off the dirt using the damp cloth. Soaking and forcing drying all the time will only cause damage to the material over a period of time. You can pat the shoes dry after the wipe to hasten drying process.
Let the boots air dry
Direct heat may seem ideal in quick drying but it is damaging to leather. Avoid using hair dryers, microwaves and ovens to dry your boots. It is also not advisable to leave the boots out in the sun to dry otherwise you may end up with warped or damaged shoes.
Use the best leather polish
Leather may not need waterproofing but you can enhance protection and keep the color by using the right leather polish. It will nourish the material and give it a soft appeal. After cleaning and polishing, you can use a boot tree to store the cleats so you maintain their original shape.