Leather Care Tips
Overview
Every piece from Bucking 90 Leather Co. is built to last — crafted by hand, one at a time, using the highest-quality leather and traditional methods. But like any good piece of gear, it deserves a little care to keep it looking sharp and holding strong.
Proper maintenance doesn’t just protect your investment — it helps your leather tell its story. With time and use, your piece will develop a natural patina, unique colour tones, and markings that reflect the life it’s lived.
Follow these care tips to keep your Bucking 90 leather in its best shape, ride after ride.
General Leather Care
Leather is a natural material that reacts to its environment. To keep it healthy, avoid excessive moisture, direct sunlight, and heat. If your piece gets wet, let it air dry naturally — never use a hair dryer, heater, or direct sun, as these can cause cracking or shrinking.
Always store leather in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated space. Avoid sealing it in plastic or airtight containers, as leather needs to breathe. When in doubt, treat your gear the way you’d treat your best saddle — with care and respect.
Conditioning
Leather needs hydration to stay soft and strong. We recommend conditioning your Bucking 90 products every 3-6 months, depending on how often you use them and the environment they’re exposed to.
Use a high-quality, neutral leather conditioner or balm — preferably one designed for full-grain leather. Apply a thin layer with a clean, soft cloth, rub it in using circular motions, and let it absorb naturally. Wipe off any excess and allow it to dry before use.
Conditioning restores natural oils, prevents cracking, and enhances the leather’s colour and richness over time.
Cleaning
For routine cleaning, simply wipe your leather piece with a dry or slightly damp cloth to remove dust or dirt. Avoid using soap, alcohol, or harsh household cleaners, as they can strip natural oils from the hide.
If deeper cleaning is needed, use a mild leather cleaner designed for full-grain hides. Apply it sparingly and always test a small area first to ensure it doesn’t affect colour or finish. After cleaning, follow up with a conditioning treatment to rehydrate the leather.
Tooled Leather
Tooled leather features intricate detail and dye work that deserves special attention. Always use a neutral or clear conditioner to avoid darkening or altering the colour. Apply gently using a soft cloth or your fingertips to reach into the tooling without over-saturating the surface.
Avoid heavy oils or waxes that can clog the impressions. With regular care, your tooled designs will stay crisp, vibrant, and well-defined for years to come.
Roughout & Suede Leather
Roughout and suede-style leathers have a textured surface that requires different care. Instead of oiling or conditioning, use a suede brush to remove dust and bring the nap back to life.
Avoid heavy moisture and oils — they can darken or flatten the surface. For light protection, you can apply a leather-safe water and stain repellent spray made for suede or nubuck.
If your roughout leather gets dirty, gently brush off debris and let it dry naturally before brushing again.
Metallic or Dyed Leather
Metallic and brightly dyed leathers are eye-catching but require gentle care. Avoid harsh cleaners or conditioners, as they can strip the finish. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe away dust and fingerprints, and keep these pieces away from high heat or direct sun to preserve colour vibrancy.
Stitching and Hardware
Inspect your gear regularly. Look for loose threads, worn buckles, or signs of strain around fastenings. If you notice something coming undone, contact us right away — early repairs are quick and affordable, and we’re always happy to help keep your piece in top shape.
A little upkeep goes a long way toward preserving both the look and the life of your leather.
Long-Term Storage
If you’re storing your leather during the off-season, clean and condition it before putting it away. Hang belts and chaps to prevent creasing, and keep wallets or small goods in a dust bag or fabric pouch.
Avoid stacking leather under weight or storing it near heat sources. Proper storage keeps your leather supple, prevents cracking, and ensures it’s ready to go when you are.
Need a Hand?
If you’re unsure about how to care for your specific Bucking 90 piece, we’ve got you covered. Send us a message or email bucking90.leatherco@gmail.com with a photo of your product, and we’ll give you tailored advice on how to clean, condition, or store it properly.
Because when you take care of your leather, it takes care of you.