Declaring an interest: we sell Renapur. Leather Honey has a big, loyal following, and for good reason.
Is Renapur or Leather Honey better?
They are different kinds of product. Leather Honey is a liquid conditioner. Renapur is a solid wax balsam. Liquids soak in quickly and suit large areas; a balsam goes on cleanly with a sponge, does not drip, and leaves a little more protection on the surface. Both are for finished leather only, never suede, nubuck or faux leather.
Side by side
| Renapur Leather Balsam | Leather Honey | |
|---|---|---|
| Made in | Britain, since 1994 | USA, since 1968 |
| Form | Solid balsam | Liquid |
| What the maker says is in it | Beeswax, carnauba wax, jojoba oil, avocado oil | No silicone, solvents, fragrances or animal derived ingredients |
| Application | Sponge, thin coat, no buffing | Cloth, then wipe off any excess |
| Not for | Suede, nubuck, aniline, patent, bonded | Suede, faux leather, vinyl |
| In Australia | $31.50 for 200ml, free postage from NSW | About $35 to $40, mostly via Amazon AU |
Does wax dry out leather?
You will see this claim from liquid brands. Renapur's answer is that a balsam goes on thinly and lets the leather breathe, while a liquid can over saturate it if you use too much (Renapur help centre). In practice the bigger risk with any conditioner is quantity. Too much of either leaves a tacky surface.
Which is better for car seats?
Both are fine on coated car leather. A liquid is quicker on a full interior. A balsam is less likely to run into perforations, as long as you load the sponge lightly. See our car seat guide for the method.
Which is better for boots and outdoor gear?
For anything that gets wet, a wax balsam has the edge, because the beeswax and carnauba leave water resistance on the surface. That is why Renapur sells well to walkers, riders and tradies.
What about price and delivery here?
Leather Honey is usually bought from Amazon in Australia. Renapur ships from Batemans Bay with free postage Australia wide, and our 200ml jar is $31.50.
The honest verdict
- Choose Leather Honey if you prefer a liquid, you are treating a big coated surface, or you want a product with no animal derived ingredients at all.
- Choose Renapur if you want a mess free balsam with water resistance, for boots, bags, tack and the car as well as the lounge.
