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ClassAct

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Hi there,

I recently sprayed my suede shoes with some protector and noticed that the nap had sort of flattened. I noticed it felt a bit harder and rougher than before.

Therefore I tried brushing it with a wire suede brush, but I noticed that the nap was actually being removed and so I stopped doing this. I then tried to brush it with a normal nylon bristle brush and the same thing was happening. I could see pieces of the suede on the brush and clearly the nap was being damaged.

So my question is, how do I restore the nap to being soft and textured without ruining it?

Thanks!
 

ClassAct

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Woly waterproof protector 3X3


Just as a side note: I tried brushing a small part before spraying (to see if the nap would become nicer) and it had the same effect.
 
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Nick V.

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Being in the U.S. I'm not familiar with the product. Looking at the label I suspect there is an ingredient in the formula that sort of glues down the nappe of the suede. I don't think this stuff is made for dress-wear. You may want to contact the maker and ask for their suggestion:

Highly effective impregnation for smooth and suede leathers as well as textiles. Protects shoes, bags, and leather garments from wetness, repels oil, and dirt. Recommended also for foot-wear and clothing with breathable membrane (e.g. SympaTex). Apply evenly from 15-20 cm on clean and dry leather, leave to dry for 30 minutes. Apply regularly for optimum protection. Do not use on patent leathers. Suitable for all colors. Warning! Breathing in the fumes can be harmful to health. Do not use or allow to dry indoors. Only spray for a few seconds! Irritating to skin. Toxic to aquatic organisms, may cause long-term adverse effects in the aquatic environment. Vapors may cause drowsiness and dizziness. Pressurized container. Protect from sunlight and do not expose to temperatures exceeding 50oC (120oF). Do not pierce or burn, even after use. Do not spray on a naked flame or any incandescent material. Keep away from source of ignition ¡V No smoking. Keep out of reach of children
 

ClassAct

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I see, but that doesn't explain the same symptoms I experienced when brushing prior to spraying them?
 

lee_44106

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I'm not sure what's causing the problem you are describing.

Perhaps the WIRE (metal) brush is too hard on the nap?

Saphir makes a crepe suede/nubuck brush that may be the most gentle.

Alternatively, you may have shoes made from poor quality suede. Can you post pictures?
 

ClassAct

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There you go. Sorry it's not a great image but as you can see, parts of the suede have become stringy and if you rub them they will fall off.
 

GBR

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Sounds like a decent burial coming up.
 

Gdot

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that suede looks pretty bad.

run a lighter over a small area to see if that doesn't burn off the long bits without leaving black marks. if that works it's your solution.

If not simply use the lighter to set them alight, put them in a boat and give them a proper viking burial
 

ClassAct

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Is it the suede which is the problem. I only got it like this after brushing part of it.
 

GBR

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I don't mean to speak badly of your shoes, but high quality suede probably would not do this regardless of treatment. What brand shoe?


I think that you have described the real issue - crap shoes.
 

ClassAct

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Thanks, that's reassuring that it's just that particular suede. I have a much more expensive suede shoe which I am now scared to brush because of this...
 

Gerry

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Maybe the condition of the suede was not great before you sprayed the shoes. Are the shoes well worn. I have used similar products on suede shoes but applied it when they were new and I did not have any issues similar to yours. Sure the protecdtor spray slightly darkened the suede but otherwise the shoes were fine.
 

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