Shoe Care
A well-cared-for pair of Costa Barca shoes only grows more beautiful with age. Here's how to keep them that way.
Every Costa Barca shoe is handcrafted from premium leather meant to last for years — even decades — with the right care. Leather is a living material; it breathes, ages, and develops character over time. This guide will help you protect your investment and keep every pair looking as refined as the day you unboxed it.
After Every Wear
A simple four-step routine after each wear keeps leather supple and extends the life of your shoes significantly.
Remove surface dust and dirt with a soft horsehair brush before storing.
Let shoes air out for a few hours before placing them back in storage.
Insert cedar shoe trees to absorb moisture and retain the original shape.
Avoid wearing the same pair two days running — give leather time to rest.
Care by Material
- Wipe clean with a soft, dry cloth after each wear
- Condition every 3–4 weeks with a quality leather cream
- Polish using a horsehair brush in circular motions
- Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight or heat
- Brush gently with a dedicated suede brush to lift the nap
- Treat with a suede protector spray before first wear
- Use a suede eraser for scuffs and light stains
- Never use water or leather cream on suede
- Wipe with a soft, slightly damp cloth to maintain shine
- Use a dedicated patent leather cleaner for marks
- Avoid folding sharply — store upright to prevent creasing
- Keep away from extreme heat to prevent cracking
- Spot clean with a mild detergent and soft brush
- Air dry away from direct heat — never machine dry
- Apply a fabric protector spray to resist stains
- Avoid soaking or submerging in water
Your Shoe Care Toolkit
A few essential tools make all the difference in long-term leather care.
For dusting and buffing leather to a natural shine
Maintains shape and absorbs moisture between wears
Replenishes natural oils and prevents cracking
Lint-free cloth for buffing and applying polish
Spray-on barrier against moisture and stains
Prevents heel damage when putting shoes on
Storage Tips
Cool & Dry Conditions
Store in a well-ventilated space away from direct sunlight, heaters, or damp areas to prevent the leather from drying out or growing mould.
Use the Original Box & Dust Bag
Keep shoes in their original packaging or a breathable dust bag to protect against dust while allowing the leather to breathe.
Maintain Shape with Trees
Always insert cedar shoe trees before storage — this prevents creasing and helps wick away moisture absorbed during wear.
Rotate Your Collection
Avoid wearing the same pair on consecutive days. Resting allows moisture to fully evaporate and the leather to recover its shape.
- Condition leather every 3–4 weeks
- Use shoe trees immediately after each wear
- Clean off dirt and dust before storage
- Apply a protective spray before first outdoor wear
- Have shoes professionally resoled when needed
- Let wet shoes air dry naturally, away from heat
- Machine wash or submerge leather in water
- Use direct heat sources to dry wet shoes
- Store in plastic bags — leather needs to breathe
- Wear the same pair every single day
- Use generic household cleaners on leather or suede
- Ignore small scuffs — they're easiest to treat early
Seasonal Care
Apply a water-repellent spray before the season begins. If shoes get wet, stuff with newspaper and air dry away from direct heat — never use a hairdryer or place near a heater.
Heat and humidity can dry out leather faster. Condition slightly more often and avoid leaving shoes in a hot car or near direct sunlight for extended periods.
Cold, dry air can cause leather to stiffen. Condition regularly to maintain suppleness and protect against salt or grit if you're in a region with winter de-icing.
Use silica gel packets in storage to control moisture and prevent mould. Ensure shoes are completely dry before placing them back in a closed cupboard.
Repair & Resoling
With proper care, our leather uppers will outlast multiple soles. We recommend professional resoling once the tread begins to visibly wear down — typically every 12–18 months with regular use, depending on terrain and frequency of wear.
For repairs, polishing services, or resoling guidance, reach out to our team and we will be happy to recommend a trusted cobbler or discuss our in-house repair service where available.
Tip: Address scuffs, loose stitching, or sole wear early. Small issues caught in time are far easier — and more affordable — to repair than damage left unattended.
Please Note: Damage caused by improper care, water exposure, or lack of maintenance is not covered under warranty or our Returns Policy. Please refer to our Exchange, Return & Cancellation Policy for full details.
Need Care Advice?
Our team is happy to recommend the right products and routine for your specific pair. Write to us at costabarcaco@gmail.com.