The Boot Room

A squeeze tube that lives in a coat pocket and survives the walk home in the rain.

Beeswax and honey, which is how a good balm should smell: like the back of a shed.

Plain, unscented in spirit, thumb-worn. Keep one in every jacket and lose none gracefully.

Sandalwood, vetiver and amber wood. Smells like a bench by the door, warm underneath.

Cedarwood with wet concrete and musk: the flagstone floor after the boots come off.

Cedar, guaiac wood and hay. A barn loft in October, put politely on a shelf.

Saffron and cedarwood, for the days the weather wins and the kettle is on.

Ten millilitres of leather and cinnamon, small enough to ride in a glove.

Sage, a leather accord and cedarwood. Think moss-green and well-oiled brown, not showroom.

Black pepper, incense and dark leather: the nearest thing here to woodsmoke on a wool collar.

Leather with ginger, cardamom and vanilla tincture. Like gloves warming on a radiator.

Leather, patchouli and cedarwood in parfum strength. Best worn under a waxed collar, damp optional.

Black cotton cord, straight leg, five pockets. Mud will show, which is rather the point.

Patchwork brown corduroy that looks already mended; the consensus pick is plain, and plain is easier.