There is much truth to the saying, "You are either in your bed or in your shoes, so it pays to invest in both" though, an important prerequisite to that is the significance of care.
"A good pair of leather boots provided you take great care of them should last up to five or six years," Sara Caverley, founder and creative director of Sol Sana told The Huffington Post Australia.
As anyone who's found the perfect pair would know, crappy, cheap and uncomfortable boots are as pervasive as the Kardashians (and not in a good way) so it pays to look after them when you do finally meet your match.
"Always waterproof suede boots, polish leather boots and re-sole your boots every two years," Caverley said.
Never dry your shoes next to a direct source of heat, this will damage the upper and sole.
Carrie Cooper and Rocco Mascitelli, cobblers and design directors of Beau Coops recommend even heading to your boot maker before you wear them for the first time.
"By doing this you'll definitely extend the life of your boots. Also, don't wait until you see a hole to take them in," Cooper told HuffPost Australia.
The worst thing you can do for your boots?
"Never dry your shoes next to a direct source of heat, this will damage the upper and sole," Cooper said.
Michael Williams, production manager at R.M.Williams agrees and said if your shoes get wet outside, always ensure you let them dry naturally.
"Force drying them and not cleaning mud or dirt off them within a reasonable time will most certainly reduce the longevity of the boots," Williams told HuffPost Australia.
- "Always remove any dirt or mud after any wear. Your boots should be polished regularly, but not excessively. Use leather conditioner on greasy leathers to avoid the leather from drying out and cracking."
- "We always encourage a second pair of boots so that you can alternate and ensure longevity. We also encourage getting your boots resoled and heeled before the damage is too great."
- "Let your boots dry out naturally, never force dry. And spray your suede boots with a suede protector -- this will help repel water and protects against stains."
- "Always make sure you use rubber soles to extend and repair the worn out soles and heels."
- "Never wait until you see a hole. In fact, take them to your boot maker before you wear them for the first time."
- "Always try to rotate your boots after a few wears so they can breathe and to ensure the leather restores itself."
- "Always ensure the correct materials are being used for the job. You can always contact the footwear company if you are unsure of what you are after."
- "Waterproof suede boots, polish leather boots and re-sole your boots every two years."
- "Keep your boots in shoe bags and/or shoe boxes if possible as this will assist in maintaining their condition."