Snakeskin boots: A comprehensive guide on how to wear, and care for them

Men’s snakeskin boots have long been an emblem of rugged western fashion, exuding one of the most timeless fashion styles. As a bold footwear statement, snakeskin boots are incredibly versatile, provided you know how to wear and maintain them. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore snakeskin boot outfit ideas, where to buy snakeskin boots, and the essential steps for keeping your shoes looking fabulous, always. 

How to style snakeskin boots

As a bold and distinctive choice for footwear, men’s snakeskin boots are a popular type of footwear. Not limited to just one type of outfit, these shoes harness a wide variety of looks. 

Listed below are some tips for snakeskin boot outfit ideas:

Pair with denim: Snakeskin boots and denim go hand in hand. Whether you combine your new shoes with jeans or a jacket, denim adds a casual vibe that complements the boots.

Contrast with colors: For those who enjoy going bold, embrace a new look with some contrasting colors. Snakeskin boots look striking with a colorful outfit.

Mix textures: Create an interesting contrast by pairing snakeskin boots with different textures. A leather jacket is a great outerwear staple to add dimension to your outfit and make the boots stand out even more.

Layer with a blazer: Adding a blazer to your outfit can elevate it from casual to semi-formal. It’s a great way to balance the edginess of the snakeskin boots with a touch of sophistication. 

Listed below are some appropriate occasions for utilizing your snakeskin boot outfit ideas:

• Casual outings: Snakeskin boots are perfect for everyday wear. Whether you’re running errands, meeting with friends, or going out to lunch, they can add a trend and stylish touch to your look.
• Concerts and festivals: Since they’re comfortable for long hours of standing and dancing, you’ve got yourself some shoes that are perfect for heading to a concert or festival. Plus, they give your outfit that cool vibe!
• Casual office attire: Depending on your workplace’s dress code, snakeskin boots can even be incorporated into your work wardrobe. Pair them with some tailored trousers and step into a business casual look that adds lots of personality.
• Travel in style: Snakeskin boots are also excellent travel companions. Since they’re comfortable for walking, these shoes are the perfect chic element to wear on the go. 

How to wear snakeskin boots

As a distinct style choice, it’s important to know how to wear your boots correctly. From selecting the right fit and size to ensuring comfort throughout the day, this section will guide you on the practical aspects of wearing men’s snakeskin boots.

Choosing the right fit and size

• Size matters: Just like any other footwear, selecting the right size is essential. Snakeskin boots should fit snugly but not be too tight. It’s also important to know that because they’re made from exotic leather, the boot may stretch over time and due to heat, so it’s usually best to buy a size that’s comfortable now knowing it will expand slightly with wear.
• Consider arch support: Snakeskin boots should offer your feet proper arch support. Read your product description to ensure your selection comes with comfortable insoles and if not, consider adding some to allow for extended wear. 
• Toe shape: Snakeskin boots come in various toe shapes, such as pointed or round. Choose a shape that complements your foot structure and personal style.
• Heel height: Men’s snakeskin boots are offered in flat, low, or slightly heeled. Be sure to choose the height that best suits your comfort level.
• Width and calf size: Some boots don’t fit true to size for those who have wider or narrower feet than the majority. Always read reviews to select the size that’s best for you.

Tip for comfortable wear

• Break them in: New snakeskin boots may feel stiff at first. To break them in, wear them around your home first before committing to a full day out. 
• Moisture-wicking socks: Keep your feet comfortable by reducing the risk of blisters with moisture-wicking socks. This is especially important with snakeskin boots, as the material does not breathe as well as other popular shoe fabrics. 
• Rest and stretch: If you plan to wear your boots for extended periods, take lots of breaks and stretch your legs and feet to prevent stiffness and discomfort. 

How to clean snakeskin boots

Snakeskin boots are a fashion statement, but only if they’re cleaned and maintained properly. If you haven’t already established your cleaning routine for your new boots, continue reading to learn more about extending their lifespan with the following suggestions on snakeskin boot care.

Cleaning supplies and methods

Supplies for snakeskin boot care:

• Soft brush: A soft-bristle brush is ideal for removing loose dirt from the surface of your snakeskin boots.
• Mild soap: Use a gentle, mild soap diluted with water as your cleaner. This avoids harsh chemicals reacting with the snakeskin material. 
• A clean cloth: Either a microfiber or cotton cloth works great for wiping down boots and removing any soap residue left behind.
• Toothbrush: A soft-bristle toothbrush can be used for more intricate cleaning of harder-to-reach spots.
• Waterproof spray: Protect your boots from future moisture and stains by using a spray that’s made specifically for exotic skins.

Cleaning steps for snakeskin boot care:

• Brush off loose dirt: Before you start, use a soft brush to gently remove any loose dirt from the surface of your snakeskin boots. 
• Prep the cleaning solution: In a container, mix a few drops of mild soap with warm water to create a soapy solution.
• Clean the boots: Dampen a clean cloth in soapy water and gently wipe down the boots. 
• Rinse and wipe: Rinse the cloth with clean water and wipe away the soap residue from the boots.
• Waterproofing: To protect your boots from moisture, apply a waterproof spray designed for exotic skins.

Maintenance routines to extend the lifespan

• Regular cleaning: Cleaning your snakeskin boots prevents dirt and stains from setting in. We recommend weekly cleaning if you wear them frequently.
• Store properly: Store your snakeskin boots in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. You can use boot trees to maintain their shape.
• Rotate your footwear: If you have multiple pairs of boots, rotate them regularly. This allows each pair some time to rest and maintain their shape and structure. 
• Protect from scratches: Be mindful of abrasive objects that can scratch the delicate scales of your snakeskin boots. When you store them, use a shoe pair to keep them from potential sources of damage. 

How to restore snakeskin boots

Snakeskin boots are a fashion statement, but over time, they may show signs of wear and tear, especially if they weren’t cared for properly. Restoring your snakeskin boots is possible and this section will cover how you can rejuvenate and repair your boots. 

Handling wear and tear

• Cleaning: The best way to minimize the damage to your boots is through cleaning to revive the leather’s luster.
• Buffing: For minor scratches and scuffs, gently buff the affected area with a soft cloth. This will help to smooth out the imperfections. 
• Repair loose scales: If you notice lifted scales on your boots, you can try using clear nail polish or leather adhesive to secure them back in place. Apply a small amount, press down, and let it dry.

Rejuvenation and repair options

• Professional cleaning: When your boots require more than basic maintenance, consider taking them to a professional cleaner or cobbler. 
• Color touch-ups: If your boots have lost some color due to wear, you can explore color touch-up products specifically designed for snakeskin. 
• Resoling: Over time, the soles of your boots may wear out. This can be easily replaced by a cobbler to offer more longevity to your shoes. 
• Re-stitching: For boots with decorative stitching that has come loose, a cobbler can also help to replace and maintain the original design of your boots. 

Keep in mind that snakeskin boots are a unique type of footwear, so it’s worth considering professional assistance when restoring them. The right experts will have the skills and materials to ensure your boots look and feel like new. 

FAQs

Are snakeskin boots illegal to wear?

In most places, wearing snakeskin boots from legally obtained materials is not illegal. However, it’s important that you purchase boots made from sustainable sources, as some species of snake are protected. 

Are snakeskin boots in style?

Yes, snakeskin boots have a timeless appeal and are considered a very fashionable choice for men’s footwear. They have made comebacks multiple times throughout the history of fashion and are currently featured in a wide range of designer collections.

Can you wear snakeskin boots in the rain?

While you can waterproof your boots and leather is generally okay to be worn in wet conditions, we recommend not wearing your exotic leather boots in heavy rain. Snakeskin is very sensitive to moisture, and exposure to water can lead to damage, discoloration, and changes in texture.

Ideas on where to buy snakeskin boots

There’s no reason to wonder where to buy snakeskin boots when you’ve landed on the page that meets all of your needs. Explore some of our recommended selection below.

Shop more snakeskin boots here.