December 21st, 2010 11:34am - Posted By: Kara
When I was growing up I remember we didn’t wear suede shoes or boots until the weather got colder. And, that was always the time that the terrain became harder on footwear with more moisture and snow – which can leave stains on suede.
Many will either receive – or treat themselves – to a pair of suede boots, slippers, or shoes this season. And while we rip open the box and put on our new footwear – there are some basic care tips that will keep the suede looking as nice as the day it is received.
Be sure to spray your footwear with a stain and rain repellent before you step out the door. Check underneath your sink; you may have some and extra can from previous purchases. Be sure to spray the suede and let it dry for at least 15 minutes before you wear it outside.
The spray is inexpensive; at The Good Sole we offer Cadillac Stain and Rain Repellent that sells for $5.
I suggest repeating every 6 to 8 weeks depending on how much you wear your shoes.
However, if in between time you do get mud – or spill something on your shoe – I also have suggestions to help save the suede.
For mud, wait until it dries and with a damp cloth gentle remove the mud. And, if you spill something on your suede (coffee, wine, etc.) try to BLOT (note blot, not rub) it off with a damp cloth. Some folks use club soda to blot it off. If the item stains your suede – you can get a suede/nubuck stick and brush and try to get most of the stain removed. The stick reminds me of a typewriter eraser (that I remember my grandparents using- - not me!) and you simply try to erase the stain and then brush of the remnants.
I have a friend in Boulder who works at the Pedestrian Shops. She has a pair of pink suede Danskos that are probably 10 years old and look great thanks to the care she applies to the suede. Her rules for suede care are simple:
Every 6 weeks go rent the latest DVD with your favorite actor – I think she is on a Dennis Quaid kick at the moment. Place the DVD in the player, pour a glass of wine, and grab your suede shoes. Gently erase/ brush and protect the suede while enjoying your evening.
Happy Holidays from The Good Sole!
Posted in: Boots
December 10th, 2010 3:31pm - Posted By: Kara
This is an exciting time for The Good Sole – as I told you in the last blog we are expanding and will re-open Taos Mountain Outfitters on December 10 (tomorrow—YIKES!)
We
are excited to be part of the Taos Plaza community. The Plaza area – with its unique architecture and history – has continued to attract visitors from all over. But we are also excited to continue to serve our local community which has been very supportive of us.
I have been asked what will be the same – and what will be different – when you enter TMO tomorrow. Well, the beer cans ( do you know how many there are?) are still there – but we have increased our apparel and accessories and offer many items in a variety of categories from travel items to hats to scarves to socks, etc. from vendors such as The North Face, Columbia, Marmot, Horny Toad, Royal Robbins, Smartwool, etc. We want to be THE place in Taos for outdoor items.
Vicki Mageria – who I wrote about in my last blog – has been busy getting the shop ready with the help of Greta Burke, John Ivers, Ariana Reyes, and Nanette Valle.
So be sure to stop in and say hi – and let us know what you think. We really want your input! And make sure you register to win some great prizes that have been donated by our vendors and by some of our gracious community businesses – El Monte Sagrado, Substance, and The Gorge Grill
Happy Holidays!
