Did you know that cowboy boots have a rich history that started in the USA in the West? Back in the 1800's most boots were made with cowhide. They were built to be durable, and comfortable for work on horseback.

Cowboy boots have come a long way since then, and are now made with exotic skins like stingray hides. If you have a pair made of that material, there are several things to know when it comes to caring for stingray boots. Find out more information on how to wear, care for, and store your stingray cowboy boots below.

There are several things to know when it comes to caring for your stingray boots. You can find out more by clicking right here.

What Are Stingray Cowboy Boots?

First things first: what are stingray boots? If you aren't the lucky owner of a pair already, here's the lowdown. They are cowboy boots that are made of tanned stingray hides.

Unlike regular leather, stingray skin has an unusual texture that feels bumpy to the touch. That's because it has hard calcium deposits on it. This is one of the reasons that crafting a pair of boots made from stingray skin is a difficult process that makes stingray boots a little more expensive than the average pair of boots.

History

Did you know that samurai warriors used stingray leather to wrap the hilts of their swords? Because of the stingray skin's bumpy texture, it makes it the ideal material to hold in your hand. It gives the hilt a surface that has a good grip that won't slip and slide even when sweating and it is very resilient.

Stingray hide is also tough, making it very durable. This made it a popular choice for not only sword hilts but also shields and armor, too. While its battle days may be over, stingray hides are still a top pick for those that want a long-lasting and tough material for bootsand belts.

Why Choose Stingray Boots?

Stingray boots have a unique look since the texture of the stingray skin has bumps that look like pearls or beads. It is also water-resistant, thanks to the fact that the skin comes from a sea creature. The skin is super durable, too, and will last a long time if cared for properly.

Boot Cleaning Tools

Before you start cleaning, gather up your supplies first. You'll need a soft cloth, toothbrush, and bowl of water. You may also want to spread newspaper or place paper bags or a towel under your boots to keep the floor or table that you are using from getting dirty.

How To Clean Stingray Boots

To keep your boots in tip-top shape, clean them frequently. You should get in the habit of doing this every week at least, or every few days if they are used a lot. Don't let dirt or mud sit on them, and keep them away from extreme temperatures.

Step One: Dust Frequently

The important thing to note is that the pebbles maqke a great hiding place for dust, sand and other abrasives which will compromise the leather over time. So dust off your boots after each use! Any soft cloth or horsehair brush will work great for this.

You can use a toothbrush to get any stubborn areas. (Just be sure to use a dedicated toothbrush for cleaning, not the one you use for your teeth!)

Step Two: Clean the Boots

For the boot itself, you'll need a bowl of water and a soft cloth. Dip the cloth in the water, and gently clean your boots with it. It's very important to remember that you should NEVER use any kind of chemical or man-made cleaner when cleaning stingray boots.

Finally, you'll want to dry off your boots properly--don't just leave them sitting there all wet. Take a dry cloth, and polish your boots with the cloth in a circular motion. Don't rub too hard, or the beads on the skin might come off.

Bonus Tip

Want to keep your boots in good shape, literally? Invest in a pair of boot trees and boot shaft shapers. When you aren't wearing your cowboy boots you can place them inside to help them retain their shape.

Storage

It's important to store your boots correctly when they're not in use. Find a cool, dry, spot and place them in a cardboard box, or wrap them up in paper. Just don't use any kind of plastic--whether it's a plastic bag or storage tub, it's not breathable and is a bad option for stingray skin.

Things To Avoid

Do not use an exotic skin boot cleaner on your stingray boots--and on that note, don't ever use a colored boot polish, either. Different sources disagree on whether it is safe to use a boot sealant on exotic skins, but it's better to be cautious and avoid it so you don't risk ruining the look of your boots. Plus, there are some health hazards associated with waterproofing boot treatment to beware of.

Ready To Clean Your Stingray Boots?

Now that you've learned how to clean your boots the right way, you can try it on your own. Because stingray cowboy boots are usually quite expensive, it's important to protect your investment by taking good care of them and giving them regular cleanings.

If you want to explore more unique and exotic boots, check out the rest of this site. And if you have any questions about your boots, contact us here for more information. 

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