Description
Saphir Tenax Leather Spray Paint – 08 Bordeaux – 150ml — high-coverage aerosol colour for smooth leather shoes and boots
If your smooth leather shoes or boots have faded, scuffed or you simply fancy a fresh look, Saphir Tenax is the leather spray paint I reach for. This 150ml aerosol lays down a strong, even layer of Bordeaux colour that hides scrapes and evens out tired, patchy leather in minutes.
Made in France by Saphir, Tenax is a surface dye built to cover. It bonds to smooth leather and also grips synthetic leather, PVC and rubber, so it is brilliant for touching up worn heels and soles as well as uppers. Once it has cured it is resistant to water and rubbing, so the colour stays put.
I personally love Tenax for reviving a favourite pair that is structurally sound but looking dull. A light going-over and your shoes look years younger. Do note it is for smooth leather only — it is not suitable for suede or nubuck.
Why choose Saphir Tenax leather spray paint?
Here is why this Bordeaux spray earns its place on my shelf:
- Strong coverage. The high-pigment formula hides scuffs, scratches and colour loss, giving a uniform Bordeaux finish in just a couple of light coats.
- Water and rub resistant. Once cured, the colour resists rain and everyday friction, so it will not transfer onto socks or trouser hems.
- Works beyond uppers. As well as smooth leather, it adheres to rubber, PVC and synthetic leather — ideal for plastic heels and worn edges.
- Even, easy application. The aerosol lets you build colour gradually with no brush marks, which is far more forgiving than a liquid dye.
- Trusted French quality. Saphir has been making shoe care since 1920, and Tenax is a favourite among cobblers for recolouring work.
- Great value revival. A single can restores several pairs, saving a well-loved pair from the bin at a fraction of the price of replacing them.
How to use Saphir Tenax
For the cleanest result, take your time with the preparation — it makes all the difference.
- Remove the laces and brush the shoes down thoroughly with a cleaning brush to lift loose dirt.
- Clean the leather with a leather cleaner to strip old wax, polish and grease, leaving a bare, receptive surface.
- Let the shoes dry completely, then mask off any soles, edges or hardware you do not want coloured.
- Shake the can well, hold it roughly 30cm away and apply a light, even layer over the leather.
- Allow around 15 minutes to dry, then apply further light coats until the colour is uniform.
- Once fully dry, finish and feed the leather with a matching Saphir shoe polish for extra shine and protection.
Haico’s tip: Always build the colour in several light passes rather than one heavy coat. Thin layers dry evenly and stop the paint pooling or running, which gives a far more natural, professional finish.
Which leather is Tenax for?
Tenax is designed for pigmented (finished) smooth leathers of every shade, and it is equally happy on synthetic leather, PVC and rubber. That makes it a proper problem-solver for boots with plastic heels or trainers with rubber trims that have scuffed.
It is not the product for suede, nubuck or oiled/waxed leathers — for those, a suede renovator spray or a penetrating dye is the right route. If you are unsure what your shoes are made of, drop me a message before you spray and I will happily point you in the right direction.
Specifications
- Volume: 150ml aerosol
- Type: High-coverage leather spray paint (surface dye)
- Colour: 08 Bordeaux
- Suitable for: Smooth leather, synthetic leather, PVC and rubber
- Not suitable for: Suede, nubuck, oiled or waxed leather
- Brand: Saphir (Made in France)
Frequently asked questions
Can I use Saphir Tenax on suede or nubuck?
No — Tenax is a surface dye for smooth leather. For suede or nubuck you want a dedicated suede renovator spray, which recolours without flattening the nap.
Will the colour rub off on my clothes?
Once the spray has fully cured it is resistant to water and rubbing, so it will not transfer. Just make sure each coat is properly dry and finish with a polish.
Do I need to seal the shoes afterwards?
It is not essential, but I always recommend finishing with a matching Saphir cream or wax polish. It deepens the shine and adds a protective layer over the fresh colour.
Where can I buy Saphir Tenax Leather Spray Paint in the UK?
You can order Saphir Tenax Leather Spray Paint directly from Shoespecialist.co.uk. We offer free delivery on orders over £50, same-day dispatch when you order before 5pm, and a 60-day return policy.















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