How to Waterproof Boots

When to Learn How to Waterproof Boots

When you purchase a pair of hiking boots, motorcycle boots, cowboy boots, or other booted footwear, you should learn how to take care and maintain those boots. In face, You should learn these maintenance procedures before you even leave the store.

Ask your salesclerk what he recommends for you to use regarding waterproofing products. A variety of products are available, including water-based, wax, silicone, and oils. The kind of waterproofer you use depends on the material in your boot: leather, fabric, synthetics, or a combination.

The clerk should also show you a technique on how to waterproof boots when applying the product. Whether you should rub the product in or allow it to sit for a moment before finishing the application.

Even if you have purchased a pair of “waterproof boots,” most experts will still recommend that you waterproof them yourself before wearing. Each time you clean the boots, you should reapply a waterproof seal.

Waterproofing Products

For those who leave the store without learning about waterproofing, you can still find out what you need for this process via other sources. First of all, call the boot manufacturer to find out what they recommend regarding how to waterproof boots. A toll-free customer service number should be included somewhere in the packaging.

A number of varying recommendations can be found regarding waterproofing boots. For example, some experts feel waxes can clog a leather boot, while others recommend bee’s wax. Some may say oil waterproofers are best for leather boots, but still others feel that oil will soften the leather too much. This is why it is important to get a manufacturer’s recommendation for what will work best for your particular boots.

Sprays may be the most common kind of waterproofer; they are found in a variety of discount and shoe stores. However, some experts feel that sprays wear off too quickly and chemicals used in them can harm the integrity of the leather or nylon.

For the most effective waterproofing, be sure to get ample product into the seam area where the sole meets the boot. Use a toothbrush, q-tip, or soft scrub brush to work the product into the seam. Do not use a rough device, because you want to keep the stitching/glue intact.

Products to Check Out

Depending on what your boot manufacturer recommends, consider any of the following products for waterproofing your boots:

• Nikwax Nubuck and Suede Waterproofing
• Allen-Edmonds Men’s Aqua Care
• G-Tec Fabric & Leather Protector

For more information regarding various waterproofing treatments, visit the American Scouting Digest.

All Natural Waterproofing

Those who care about chemicals in the environment will be heartened to learn there is a natural waterproofing agent available.

Lanolin, a natural oil found in sheep’s wool, helps keep them dry when it rains. It can be extracted from the sheep without harming them. Find it in pharmacies. Simply rub lanolin into boots like you would any other waterproofing treatment.

Forgotten Waterproofing

If you did forget to waterproof your boots and get them wet, follow these steps to make sure they dry properly.

1. Wipe off dirt and mud.
2. Dry in a well-circulated area.
3. Use a deodorizing foot powder or baking soda if they smell once dry.
4. Waterproof the boots after drying them.

When drying the boots, placing them indoors in your home is enough warmth. Do not leave them in the sun to dry, or dry by a heater or with hair dryer. This can ruin the boots. Air drying is best.