Remove the laces from the leather shoes and brush off any excess dirt or debris from the shoes with a soft-bristled brush. Place the shoes on a protected work surface in a well-ventilated area with all of your tools nearby.

Mix one part white vinegar and three parts warm water in a bowl to create a solution that will remove salt stains. Dampen a soft-bristled brush with the solution and gently scrub the surface of the shoes until they are evenly wet, but not soaking. Allow them to dry completely, evaporating the salt in the process.

Stuff the shoes with newspaper so that they hold their shape in resistance to pressure. Coat all the leather parts of the shoes with an even layer of neatsfoot oil using an old paintbrush. Allow the shoes to dry for at least 24 hours and re-apply -- you'll see lighter-colored areas where the oil did not penetrate. Repeat the process until the shoes feel soft and pliable. This natural oil restores essential moisture to leather and also serves as a preservative and water repellent.

Rub mink oil into the dry leather shoes using a circular motion with a soft, lint-free cloth. Like neatsfoot oil, this oil penetrates the surface of the leather to condition it. Allow the mink oil to dry for about 15 minutes and remove any excess oil with a dry cloth or paper towel.

Apply an even coat of leather polish with a clean, lint-free cloth and allow it to dry. Using another cloth or a clean portion of the same cloth, buff the polish out until the leather shines. Alternatively, you can forgo the polish for a natural, matte look.