There's something special about suede and nubuck, that soft, velvety texture just looks and feels amazing. But it also picks up dust and scuffs faster than smooth leather, so a simple routine goes a long way toward keeping your shoes looking their best. The good news? It only takes a few minutes.
What You'll Need
- Saphir Gommadin Eraser, for lifting stubborn marks and scuffs
- Saphir Suede Renovator, refreshes color, nourishes with almond oil, and adds water resistance
- Saphir Super Invulner, invisible waterproofing spray for lasting protection
- A spatula (crepe) brush, for general brushing and restoring the nap
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Remove the Laces
Start by pulling out your laces so you can reach every part of the shoe, especially around the tongue and eyelets where dust loves to hide. This is also a great time to check if your laces could use a refresh (we might know a place for that).
2. Brush Away Surface Dust
Using your spatula brush, go over the entire shoe with gentle strokes. Pay extra attention to the folds and creases near the toe box and ankle, these are the spots where dirt tends to settle in.
3. Tackle Stubborn Spots with the Gommadin Eraser
If you notice any marks or scuffs that brushing alone won't shift, reach for the Gommadin eraser. Rub it gently over the affected area, think of it like a pencil eraser for your shoes. Only use it where needed; there's no reason to go over the whole shoe.
4. Apply Suede Renovator Spray
Stuff some newspaper inside your shoes to protect the lining, then hold the Suede Renovator about 25 cm away and spray evenly across the surface. This one product does triple duty: it brings back the original color depth, nourishes the leather with almond oil, and adds a layer of water resistance. Let the shoes dry for about 10 minutes before moving on.
5. Restore the Nap
Once the renovator has dried, take your crepe brush and work it back and forth across the suede. This lifts the fibers back up and restores that signature velvety look. Use light, even strokes, you're fluffing, not scrubbing.
6. Seal with Super Invulner
For an extra layer of protection against rain and spills, finish with a light coat of Super Invulner. Spray from the same 25 cm distance and let it dry completely. Your shoes are now ready to face whatever the day throws at them.
Pro Tips
- Don't keep brushing the same spot repeatedly, suede fibers can become flat or damaged if you overwork one area.
- The Suede Renovator really does triple duty (color, nourishment, waterproofing), so it's the single most important product in this routine.
- Do this routine every couple of weeks for shoes you wear regularly, and they'll stay looking fresh for years.
While you're caring for your shoes, why not treat them to a fresh pair of laces? Browse our full collection to find the perfect match.