New suede jacket- how can I protect it?

[VictoriaL]

About 12 years ago I bought a suede "bomber" style jacket and wore it a lot for the first few years. When I took it to the cleaners, I was shocked at how much the cleaning cost. So I figured that I'd just wear it until it fell apart, not clean it again, and never buy another suede jacket. Well, never say never...

Today I bought another suede jacket. It's more stylish than the previous one, and a lighter color of brown, and darn it, I just couldn't resist the price ($118 reduced to $55)! Is there some kind of product that I can spray on it to protect it from, well, whatever.

Also, I never found out the answer to this question all the time I had my first jacket, so I shall ask for this new one-- can suede be worn in rain or snow? I don't mean downpours, but would a light amount (like, running from the car into a building during a snow shower) spot or otherwise damage it?

I had no idea where else to look for these answers, so thanks for your help! :)

[honeygirl1971]

Well, I coat all my leather shoes, bags, jackets, etc. with a leather/suede protector. Like Scotchguard, although that's not what I use (mine is a spray I bought at Nordstrom, I think). All shoe repair stores and most shoe stores sell this stuff, and I'd definitely put *something* on it before you wear it. And if you do get caught in rain etc., definitely re-treat it before you wear it again. Hopefully someone else will tell you what brand is best. I also wouldn't wear the jacket if you KNEW it was going to rain, but if it's just a run to the car in light snow and your jacket is protected, it's probably ok. But that's just my opinion!