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Markgibsonr25
In fairness, you could use vaseline too, great for covering guns too and does not smell. Problem is some modern boots seem to have non-stitched seals/seams that may come apart when used with solvents - which includes most petroleum products.
I used to believe / be told that polish etc was to "protect" the leather, even "feed" it. Why feed something dead? Well, I was finally convinced when I saw a Kriegsmarine Stiefel lying on the seabed in the vicinity of the Bismarck. Properly tannerised leather does not rot, does not get eaten at any significant rate. The products are just for shine, pliability and waterproofing.
Here are some leather products from 1912:
Attachment 89013