FOOTWEAR CARE GUIDE

Every pair of UMBERTO ˣ LUCE isn’t just footwear—it’s a statement. Built to accompany you on every journey, they’re designed to last. But even the toughest pieces need the right care to keep performing at their best.

WHAT YOU SHOULD NEVER DO

Before diving into the details, let’s start with the basics. Follow these rules to prevent irreversible damage to your footwear:

  • Never use a washing machine or dryer. Excess water and heat can weaken the structure of the leather, causing cracks and damage.
  • Avoid harsh chemicals. Degreasers and solvents can deteriorate materials, affecting their flexibility and appearance.
  • Store in a dry, ventilated area. Trapped moisture can lead to mold, bad odors, and gradual deterioration of the leather.
  • Keep dirt buildup to a minimum. Excess dirt can block the material’s breathability and speed up wear, shortening the lifespan of your footwear.
  • Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight. Intense heat and UV rays can dry out and weaken the leather, leading to cracks and loss of flexibility.
  • Never store them while damp. Moisture can lead to mold, unpleasant odors, and weakened adhesives.
  • No braking with your feet! (BIKERS, this one’s for you). We’ll explain why in a moment.

STEP-BY-STEP FOOTWEAR CARE

Follow these four simple steps to keep your footwear in top condition. Proper maintenance not only extends its lifespan but also ensures the best performance and appearance.

STEP 1

Remove the laces (if applicable)
If needed, wash the laces separately in a container with cold water and liquid detergent for dark fabrics. This prevents dirt from transferring onto your footwear during cleaning.

STEP 2

Dry it properly if it gets wet
Gently absorb excess water with a dry cloth without rubbing, and let it air dry in a well-ventilated area. Avoid direct heat, such as a dryer or intense sunlight, as it can dry out and damage the materials.

STEP 3

Remove dirt
Once dry, clean off accumulated dirt using a specialized leather cleaner, such as saddle soap. Apply it in circular motions with a slightly damp cloth to prevent clogging the material’s pores.

STEP 4

Condition dry leather
If the leather on your footwear dries out, massage in a specialized leather conditioner or a moisturizing cream available at supermarkets. Use a clean cloth to remove any excess and restore the material’s flexibility.

MASTER THE ART OF FOOTWEAR CARE

It’s more than just maintenance—it’s about making every detail of your footwear speak for itself. Follow this step-by-step guide and take your care game to the next level.

CARE FOR TEXTILES & THERMAL PRINTS

If your footwear includes textile materials or thermal prints, follow these guidelines to prevent damage and preserve its original design:

  • Brush dry using a soft-bristle brush to remove dust and surface dirt.
  • Use a damp cloth with minimal water to clean lightly stained areas—avoid scrubbing too hard.
  • Avoid harsh chemicals that could fade textiles or alter prints.
  • Do not use abrasive sponges or hard brushes, as they can wear down thermal prints and reduce durability.
  • Let it air dry in a ventilated space, away from direct sunlight or intense heat sources.

SPECIFIC CARE FOR RIDER STYLES

  • If you wear footwear from the RIDER line, follow these steps to keep it in top condition.

Shift Protector Cleaning

Some RIDER+ styles come with removable shift protectors designed to prevent premature wear in the contact area with the motorcycle's shift lever. To clean them:

  • Use a damp cloth to remove surface dirt.
  • For stubborn dirt, use a soft brush or a cloth with warm water.
  • Avoid abrasive products or strong solvents that could damage the material.
  • Let the protector dry completely in the shade.

Sole Care

Both EVERYDAY and RIDER styles from UMBERTO ˣ LUCE share the same high-resistance soles, designed with different technologies for durability and grip. There are three main types:

  • Vulka & Ruber Light: Exclusive to sneakers, lightweight, and flexible.
  • Billy: Used in styles like Bonhan, Tebron, and Trumber. These do not have a lifetime warranty due to the possible detachment of the sidewalls from improper use.
  • Natural Rubber: Exclusive to boots, offering maximum resistance and grip in demanding conditions.

General Sole Maintenance

  • Regularly clean with a dry brush to remove dirt and debris.
  • Avoid exposure to extreme heat, as it can weaken the structure and flexibility.
  • If the sole gets wet, let it air dry naturally without applying direct heat.

RIDER-Specific Care

RIDER styles are designed for motorcycling, but certain habits can reduce their durability:

  • Never brake with your heels or drag your feet. This bad habit wears out the sole quickly and, in styles like Bonhan, can cause the sidewalls to detach over time.
  • This is not a manufacturing defect but a result of improper use. To avoid this, always use the correct braking technique—rely on your bike’s brakes, not your footwear.
  • Remove oil and dirt residue that can affect grip.
  • If you notice uneven sole wear, check your posture and riding habits.

WARNING: DO NOT WEAR UNSUITABLE FOOTWEAR FOR MOTORCYCLING

NOT ALL SHOES ARE SAFE FOR RIDING

If you wear footwear from the EVERYDAY line—whether it’s a boot or a sneaker-boot (like Kravitz or Conor)—you are NOT protected in the event of a crash. While these styles provide slightly more stability than a low-cut sneaker, they do not offer proper ankle protection and put your safety at risk.

If you wear a low-cut sneaker (like Tebron, Trumber, or Flux), the risk is even higher. In an accident, the lack of ankle support not only increases the chance of a sprain but can also lead to a severe fracture.

Why is it so dangerous?

There is a major artery in that area that, if severed, can cause fatal bleeding before emergency services arrive.

  • Ankle fractures do not heal on their own; they require surgery with screws and plates, leading to a painful recovery and lifelong complications.
  • If you ride a motorcycle, wear footwear designed to protect you. It’s not just about comfort—it’s the difference between staying on the road or not.

KEEP YOUR FOOTWEAR BY YOUR SIDE

Every pair of UMBERTO ˣ LUCE is built to endure and be your companion on every journey. Proper care doesn’t just extend its lifespan—it ensures your footwear stays in peak condition for every step you take.

Give your shoes the care they deserve. Well-maintained footwear doesn’t just last longer—it carries the stories of every path you’ve walked.

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