How to waterproof work boots. Few things can ruin your day faster than a cold, wet pair of socks. Moisture that gets into boots can cause uncomfortable situations and can even create the perfect environment for blisters to develop.
But by properly waterproofing your shoes, wet feet should be a distant memory.
Whether your boots are for hiking, working, or simply fighting the elements, chances are they've already had their first water-repellent treatment. But to keep your feet dry in the long run, you need to treat them regularly.
How often you should waterproof your boots depends on how often you wear them. A good rule of thumb is to waterproof your boots when they get too dirty or when the water stops beading on the surface. This can be the equivalent of waterproofing once every two months.
It is important to know what boots are made of before treating them. Each type of material needs a different product to waterproof.
Full-grain leather, probably the most commonly used material in boots, may require a different treatment than suede or nubuck leather. Some boots are even made of fabric or synthetic material. We'll break this down further.
If you're ever in doubt about what your boots are made of, the manufacturer's website should have that information for you.
MAKE SURE YOUR BOOTS ARE CLEAN
Before you start waterproofing, you should thoroughly clean your boots. Dirt and grime can interfere with the waterproofing product, preventing the treatment from completely covering the boots. It is always a good idea to keep your boots clean to prolong their life.
Start by removing the laces and using a brush to remove all the dirt. If the soles of your boots are covered in dirt, soak them in about an inch of water for a few hours to loosen the dirt. Any remaining dirt can be removed by spraying it off with a hose.
Let your boots air dry, but wear them again while the leather is still slightly damp. This will help work the treatment into the material.
THE WATERPROOFING PROCESS
Make sure you have the right product for your type of boots. There are different types of waterproofing treatments and each treatment is applied differently:
Spray: There are sprays that are specially made for leather, suede, and synthetic materials. To use, hold the can about 6 inches (15 cm) from the boot and spray in a thin, even layer. Check the product instructions to see if a second coat is needed.
Wax: Wax is best for leather and suede boots. If you're using wax to waterproof your boots, heat them slightly with a hairdryer and apply with a clean cloth. Remove excess wax and polish to a shine. Waxing can be more of a manual process, but it's great to get into more nooks and crannies.
Cream – This is a great option if you have a pair of leather boots. To use a cream to waterproof your boots, apply it with an included applicator or a clean cloth and rub the product all over the boot. If you have a boot with a hard-to-reach area, go into the crevice with a clean cloth.
Some products will give your boots a slightly darker shade. Read all labels and test the product on a small area to make sure you like it before proceeding.
No matter what type of product you use, make sure you cover the entire trunk. Pay close attention to seams and folds. These areas can be prone to leakage from the material being punched or bent.
TO DRY
After applying the treatment, your boots need time to dry completely. Place them in an area with
average temperatures, low humidity, and good ventilation.
Never use direct heat, such as a hairdryer, to speed up the drying process, as this could loosen the glue on your boots or cause the leather to crack. Also, avoid drying your boots in direct sunlight.
However, you can use a fan to speed up the drying process. Putting newsprint in your boots is a good way to absorb moisture and is particularly effective at drying the insole.
Once you've cleaned, treated, and dried your boots, they're ready to slip on and make a splash.
Put them on now and get ready for all the twisting trails, towering mountains, and roaring streams you'll encounter on your next outdoor excursion.