Written by the experts at Oakbark & Chrome
To care for and treat your leather, look to your skincare regimen for inspiration.
When it comes to caring for our skin, gentle cleansing of dirt and impurities followed by moisturizing is a tried and true basic formula. Avoiding harsh and overzealous treatment, which can strip natural protections, is important. Equally important is moisturizing the appropriate amount. Too little will leave our skin dry, and too much will cause heavy build-up. Caring for leather uses these same basic guidelines.
Leather may not require as much maintenance as our skin, but when it does need a bit of some cleaning or is starting to look a little dry, it's important to give it the appropriate attention.
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Start with a soft damp cloth or sponge and leather cleaner.
Use a small amount of leather cleaner on the cloth or sponge and rub it onto the leather in a circular motion (just like you would do when washing your face). Once your leather is clean, allow it to air dry.
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Next, use a small amount of leather conditioner.
Apply directly to the cloth or sponge, and then rubbed in a circular motion on the leather. Start with a pea size drop of leather conditioner, as you can always add more if needed. The conditioner will not only moisturize, it will also protect your leather.
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Opt for a protector.
For stronger protection on leather that may be regularly exposed to harsh or wet conditions, you may want to also apply leather protector once the conditioner has fully dried. Leather protector can generally be sprayed over your leather in a circular motion, again being mindful to not apply too much protector. Protector will also prevent the transfer of colour from your leather onto other fabric. Note that during this process your leather may temporarily darken, but will lighten again over time.
Caring for your leather properly, will keep your favourite leather piece (or horse tack!) both functioning and looking beautiful for years to come.
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BEHIND THE BRAND
Oakbark & Chrome is a partnership run by two ambitious horse-crazy women, Athena Leone & Roxanne Rabalais. Equestrian equipment is expected to perform and hold up to hard use, but is also meant to last with care and maintenance. Oakbark & Chrome creates long-term sustainable products that suit both fashion and function. Athena and Roxanne eventually connected through their riding coach, and with the support of the riding community and many of those involved in the equestrian industry, they found the encouragement and the support to start Oakbark & Chrome, a brand that upholds the ideals of inclusion and community support, as well as elevating a functional product to the level of high fashion.
It was important for Athena and Roxane to use a leather that could withstand an active, outdoor lifestyle, and when touched would evoke strength with a touch of femininity. The choice was made to incorporate a stirrup into the designs as a symbol of support, just as it supports the rider in the saddle. Being able to combine a love of horses, sport, and fashion is an absolute dream come true, and helping to spread that love is what drives Oakbark & Chrome.
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