Care/maintenance tips for Alden 405 Indy Boots?

[CatManDoo73]

Hi there. I just received a pair of black Alden Indy Boots yesterday. Wearing them today and am already in love with them. Admittedly, though, these are the nicest pair shoes/boots I've ever owned. I want to make sure I do whatever I can to protect them. I realize wear and tear give them character, and I'm fine with that, but I don't want to treat them like a $100 pair of Timberlands either. Are shoe trees a must? Do I need to worry about waxing/polishing? What about rain? I know they're not waterproof, but will they be ok to wear in the rain and occasional puddles? Should I treat them with some sort of waterproofing product? As you can tell, I'm new to this, so any tips/links you guys can provide would be invaluable. Thanks!

 

[hpreston]

I recommend the following threads:

http://www.styleforum.net/t/85589/the-official-alden-thread/0_100

Amd

http://www.styleforum.net/t/228153/the-official-shoe-care-thread-tutorials-photos-etc/0_100

The bottom line is to treat them like boots, wear them.

Yes, shoe trees are a must (IMHO) for all shoes and boots.

Wear them in the rain and slush. If they get wet, be sure to dry them properly.

Use some sort of conditioner every once in a while, no need to polish them every week.