So, why, really, can't I oil my tall boots?

[QUOTE=mikkiluu;7987833]
I’m also breaking in my first pair of tall boots and have been using Effax Leder-Balsam to help condition them. Why would that brand not be good?

I don’t want my boots to break at the ankle (the back stabs me & I wish to soften them so they won’t); if you have any, what recommendations can you give?[/QUOTE]
I know you’re new, but please check the date before posting, this thread is from 2012.
On another note, the reason you don’t want to use a high oil content like lederbasalm is because the oil strips the shine. If you really want to soften them, get a boot conditioner like der dau’s or vogel’s and condition the inside of the leather. If the back is still hurting you, use double socks/bandages/equifit ankle gels to protect your ankle until they’re broken in. You can also use the bathtub method to help break them in.
Personally, I clean only with a damp cloth, until it’s time to strip polish. I basically follow the military methods/ spit shine. I do the initial layer of polish with a cream like meltonian, then follow with layers of kiwi wax and parade gloss.

I have a pair of Ariat tall boots I wear instead of paddock boots and half chaps, and I use saddle soap and conditioner on them all the time to keep them soft and in the hopes that they won’t dry out and crack in the bendy parts. They’re very soft and have held up super well. That being said, I never polish them because I don’t really care if they’re shiny- just clean.

For my show boots, I’ll wipe them off with a damp rag- and I’ll use saddle soap if they’re really grimy on the inside. When they’re dry I polish the foot and outside of the calf with Kiwi- not that I have a real preference, it’s just cheap and available everywhere. And buff with a soft cloth or brush.

No more Kiwi polish for me. I found a cleaner/polish that also helps soften leather. Look up Urad leather care and check out their products. It has been my go to cleaner now and because it has dye in the product it wont strip the color and it will leave a nice shine and dries within a minute. The brand also makes a conditioner/waterproofer called Grasso and it will help keep a shine as well and water will bead up and roll right off your boot. This stuff can also be used on saddles, bridles and any form of leather so I no longer buy any other cleaner for my tack. My cheap Kincade bridle that I have had for 6 years and has stayed stiff as the day I bought it is now soft and easy to use. Love, love, love the Urad products.