Care & Maintenance: Keeping Your PRUA Shoes Looking Their Best, Without the Hassle

PRUA shoes are made to be lived in. And precisely because they are made of the finest quality leather and suede, proper care is not about “doing a lot”.

PRUA shoes are made to be lived in. And precisely because they are made of the finest quality leather and suede, proper care is not about “doing a lot”: it is about doing little, but doing it consistently. The best maintenance is the kind that naturally becomes part of your routine, like a quick gesture at the end of the day. The result is simple: your shoes stay neat, maintain their beautiful appearance over time and, above all, continue to feel good to wear, on and off the boat.

The basic rule applies to all materials: after wearing, remove any dust and let the shoes breathe. If they have been exposed to moisture, salt or spray, never force them to dry with radiators, hairdryers or direct sunlight. Leather and suede prefer normal drying times and fresh air. Dab gently with a soft cloth, allow them to dry naturally and, only once they are completely dry, care for the surface using the appropriate method.

With smooth leather, the best approach is clean and gentle. A soft, dry cloth is often enough to bring it back to its best. If necessary, use a barely damp cloth and dry immediately, without rubbing hard. When the leather feels a little “thirsty”, or simply when you want to keep it supple, apply a small amount of a neutral product specifically designed for leather and spread it evenly. The aim is not to make it shine: it is to nourish it with restraint and keep the surface even and well cared for.

Suede requires a different approach: dry, gentle and consistent. A suede brush becomes your main tool, used with light, regular strokes to lift the nap and remove dust. If a small stain appears, acting quickly matters: dab gently without pressing, allow the area to dry and then brush. Avoid creams and oily products on suede, as they can weigh down the surface and leave marks. If you want to protect the material, use only products specifically designed for suede and always test them first on a small, inconspicuous area.

The rubber sole is simple to maintain, but it deserves attention, especially if you spend time on a boat. A soft brush or damp cloth will quickly remove dirt. After use in a marine environment, a quick rinse and thorough drying will help keep everything clean and in good condition. The PRUA patterned sole is designed for onboard use and engineered to help reduce the risk of marking or damaging surfaces, including teak, whether dry or wet. Here too, the most practical rule applies: sand and small debris can increase abrasion, so keeping the sole clean is the most effective way to protect both the boat and the shoe.

There is another detail that makes a difference over time: how you store your PRUA shoes. Keep them in a dry, well-ventilated place. If you want to help maintain their shape, place some light paper inside; avoid storing them tightly packed or putting them away while they are still damp. Whenever possible, alternate wear: giving the materials a day to “rest” helps them remain more stable and comfortable.

PRUA care is not a complicated ritual. It is smart maintenance: a few simple gestures, done well and repeated regularly. This keeps the leather beautiful, the suede looking alive and the sole clean. And it allows your PRUA shoes to keep doing what they were made for: accompanying you with comfort and style, on and off the boat.