Top Dubbin Brands for Ultimate Leather Care

Dubbin has long been a favored solution for those looking to maintain and protect leather goods from the elements. Its ability to moisturize and waterproof makes it an essential item for outdoor enthusiasts and leather aficionados alike. But with a multitude of brands flooding the market, choosing the best one can be daunting. Dive into the article below to discover top-tier dubbin brands that offer both quality and reliability for your leather care needs.

Illustration of dubbin

Best brands of dubbin in 2025

Kiwi

Kiwi is a renowned global brand of shoe polish, originally developed in Australia in 1906 by William Ramsay, and has since become the dominant shoe polish in many countries, including the UK and the US. By 1918, Kiwi had sold thirty million tins, and by 1924, it was distributed in fifty countries. As of 2013, Kiwi held a 53% market share worldwide and was sold in over 180 countries. The brand's success was further enhanced by its adoption by both the British and United States armies during World War I. Kiwi's innovative products have maintained high quality standards, ensuring its reputation as a top producer of shoe care products. For more detailed information, you can explore their history on Wikipedia page.

Nikwax

Nikwax is a leading brand in producing high-quality, environmentally friendly aftercare products, including dubbin, without using harmful chemicals like PFCs. Founded in 1977 by Nick Brown, Nikwax has grown into an international company with branches in Mainland Europe, North America, and South America. The company is known for its innovative, water-based products that are safe for users and the environment. Nikwax has been recognized with several awards, including the Queen's Award for Enterprise: Sustainable Development in 2014. The company has also committed to dedicating 1% of its turnover to environmental and social projects. For more information, visit the Nikwax official website.

Altberg

Altberg is renowned for its meticulous craftsmanship and high-quality footwear, particularly in the production of specialist technical boots. Founded in 1989 by a veteran of the old Richmond shoe factory, Altberg focuses on small quantities, making around 300 pairs a day between its two factories in Richmond and Italy. This approach allows for a much higher level of craft and hand-making, setting Altberg apart from mass production methods. The company's commitment to detail and traditional techniques, such as steam shaping and hand lasting, ensures superior quality in every pair. Altberg's boots are designed and developed in Richmond, with larger quantities produced in Italy, maintaining consistency in tooling, materials, and manufacturing processes. For more insights on their intricate boot-making process, visit Altberg's factory page.

Grangers

W.W. Grainger, Inc. is not specifically known for producing dubbin, but it is a leading broad line distributor of maintenance, repair, and operating (MRO) products. With 2023 sales of $16.5 billion, Grainger serves over 4.5 million customers worldwide, offering approximately 2 million MRO products and services through its High-Touch Solutions segment and over 13 million products through Zoro.com in the Endless Assortment segment. Grainger has achieved 52 consecutive years of dividend increases and returned $1.2 billion to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases in 2023. The company operates primarily in North America, Japan, and the United Kingdom, and has expanded its supply chain network significantly. Grainger's focus on innovative technology and deep customer relationships has driven its record sales and earnings.

Dr. Martens

Dr. Martens is renowned for its high-quality dubbin, a crucial component in the care and maintenance of their iconic boots. The brand's dubbin is part of a comprehensive care kit that includes Wonder Balsam, ensuring the longevity and condition of the leather. Since its inception in 1945, Dr. Martens has maintained a strong commitment to quality, with its products becoming cultural icons. The brand's direct-to-consumer sales, which include retail and e-commerce, accounted for roughly 521 million British pounds in 2022, highlighting the trust consumers have in their products.

Cherry Blossom

The Cherry Blossom brand, though not primarily known for dubbin, is a significant player in the shoe polish market, with a rich history and diverse product range. Originally part of Reckitt & Colman, the brand was later acquired by Grangers International Ltd after a Competition Commission enquiry to prevent market domination. Cherry Blossom products account for a portion of the shoe polish market, with pastes, creams, aerosols, and liquids being key segments, although the exact percentage for Cherry Blossom specifically is not detailed. The brand is part of a market that sells approximately 60 million units annually, with sales distributed roughly equally between public and specialist outlets. Despite the broader market's static or declining demand, Cherry Blossom remains a recognized name in shoe care. For more information about their products, visit the Cherry Blossom official website.

Collonil

Collonil is one of the largest and most renowned producers of high-quality shoe care products in Europe, offering a diverse range of items including dubbin, shoe creams, and waxes. Their standard series is known for its good quality and absence of silicones, while their 1909 range features products made with only natural ingredients. Collonil's products are widely available and shipped worldwide from their own webshop. The company's commitment to quality and innovation has made it a staple in the shoe care market, particularly in Europe. With a long history of producing reliable and effective shoe care solutions, Collonil continues to be a preferred choice among shoe care enthusiasts.

Snoseal

Sno-Seal, a bee's wax-based product, is highly regarded for its effectiveness in dubbing boots, offering excellent waterproofing and leather protection. It is easy to apply, non-toxic, and safe for use on hands. A single jar of Sno-Seal, available for around $4.99, can treat at least four pairs of boots with additional touch-up coats. This product has been recommended for its durability and longevity, with some users reporting satisfactory results even after years of use. Unlike hydrocarbon-based or vegetable-based products, Sno-Seal does not turn rancid or oxidize, ensuring long-term protection for your leather goods. For more information, visit the Sno-Seal official page.

Saphir

Saphir, one of the oldest and most renowned manufacturers of shoe care products, is particularly celebrated for its Medaille d'Or range, which includes the highly acclaimed Dubbin Graisse. This dubbin, enriched with 15% animal oils and fats from mink and fish, deeply nourishes and protects leather, preventing drying, hardening, and cracking. Established in 1925, Saphir won a gold medal at the Foire de Paris for its high-quality, all-natural products. The Saphir Medaille d'Or Dubbin is suitable for various types of leather, including smooth, oiled, and oiled nubuck, and is recommended for both regular and distressed leathers. Its use involves applying a small amount, allowing it to penetrate the leather, and then brushing off any excess for optimal results.

Tarrago

Tarrago is a renowned brand in the leather care industry, particularly celebrated for its high-quality dubbin products. Their dubbin, free from silicones and perfumes, is specially formulated to nourish, protect, and waterproof leather, making it ideal for saddlery, sports, and horse riding accessories. Available in neutral and black colors, Tarrago Dubbin is suitable for oil-tanned, oiled, and waxed leathers. It is known for its high polishing power and traditional formula that prevents cracking and maintains the natural texture of the leather. With its greasier consistency, it is a preferred choice for those seeking a natural look and robust protection.