How to Clean and Care for Leather Onitsuka Tiger Sneakers

Genuine leather Mexico 66s age beautifully — if you treat them right. This 15-minute routine keeps them crisp for years.

Weekly: the quick wipe

Knock soles together outside, then wipe the upper with a barely-damp microfiber cloth. That's 90% of sneaker care done.

Monthly: the deep clean

1. Remove laces; wash them separately in mild soapy water.
2. Mix a drop of gentle soap in warm water; work over the leather with a soft brush in small circles.
3. Wipe residue with a clean damp cloth — never soak leather.
4. Clean the rubber midsole with a firmer brush; a white eraser handles scuffs.
5. Air-dry at room temperature, stuffed with paper. Never radiators or direct sun.

Quarterly: condition

A thin coat of leather conditioner keeps the upper supple and prevents creasing cracks — especially worth it on the premium leather of the Nippon Made line.

Storage rules

Cool, dry, out of sunlight, ideally with shoe trees or paper inside. Rotate pairs — leather needs rest days to release moisture.