New bridle - best way to soften it?

[cob&onion]

My new evision comfort bridle has arrived and its lovely it obviously feels a bit stiff and need to soften up, also feels like theres a waxy substance on it?

Do i soap it first with warm soapy water then use neatsfoot oil on it??
I want to look after it from the start

 

[Ashgrove]

I have always used Ko Cho Line on new or abused leather, I've been doing that for over 30 years and it's never failed me yet.

Please don't use oil.

 

[ThePony]

New leather does have a whiteish waxy substance on - just to protect it and keep the moisture in. I would give it a wipe over with a barely damp sponge (cold water) and then a wipe with leather conditioner. It will soften more with use. The leather should be a good quality so no need to oil it to get it useable (it can make leather stretch). I prefer just to wipe leather over as the leather soaps can leave a layer which protects the leather, but can also limit the uptake of leather conditioner.

 

[cob&onion]

i have sponged it over with a damp cloth then used some nice leather conditioner on it, its so soft already - can't wait to try it

 

[sbloom]

New leather does have a whiteish waxy substance on - just to protect it and keep the moisture in. I would give it a wipe over with a barely damp sponge (cold water) and then a wipe with leather conditioner. It will soften more with use. The leather should be a good quality so no need to oil it to get it useable (it can make leather stretch). I prefer just to wipe leather over as the leather soaps can leave a layer which protects the leather, but can also limit the uptake of leather conditioner.

Ditto. The wax will wear off, saddle soap is at best not a great cleanser or conditioner, and at worst isn't great for your tack. Use the bridle, which will soften it, and use a good conditioner sparingly, better little and often at first, then little and not so often once it's soft!