proper care for suede saddle
 

I have an old San Marco suede saddle, although the suede has been burnished to sort of a nubuck patina. The saddle is starting to look a bit dried out, and I'm wondering what I should use to treat it. I have all kinds of leather products, from liquid waterproofing (sold to treat goretex hiking boots) to Sno-seal (silicone wax) and lots of things in between. I'd like to protect and preserve without softening too much, and without lots of residuals to come off on my shorts. Any ideas?

I am sure there is a "correct" answer but I grew up with saddles (horses) that often had a suede section and we abused the hell out of them (working saddles) and they lasted a long time. Probably not the answer you were looking for.

You might try some of the spray products for sueded leathers.The idea is to keep the finish dry feeling on the surface. I would leave the Sno-Seal and similar sticky wax sealants for something you don't need to sit on, because some of that always rubs off. Saddles like yours can last a long time, but they eventually do wear out. Suede finishes on a saddle are meant to look nice when new and feel good, but the nap gets worn smooth with even a little use, which might make them look worn but really doesn't lessen comfort or utility. If you think you can raise the nap by brushing with a suede brush (brass wire "bristles") then go ahead.