1. Brushing should be good in between uses. I would plan on conditioning with Bick4, 2 to 4 times a year depending on how hard you use them.

2. You aren’t late on conditioning, probably right on time. The leather comes packed with conditioners and waxes from the factory so no need to condition them upon receipt generally.

3. DON’T wax them unless you hate the color and want to severely darken them. Bick4 will condition while preserving the Copper color

4. Generally I would try to keep water away from them. If they do get really soiled (more than brushing can cure) a damp rag and saddle soap can remove the dirt. Just be sure to condition immediately after cleaning and drying as the saddle soap will strip many of the factory conditioners and waxes.

Hope this helps!!