I use a good grade of wax after the cleaning and preservative. I usually use Obenaufs but it will darken light colored leather. Shoe polish or any wax will help turn water and keep the leather pliable.

"When you disarm the people, you commence to offend them and show that you distrust them either through cowardice or lack of confidence, and both of these opinions generate hatred." Niccolo Machiavelli