Waterproofing leather Footwear

Robin

I've never water-proofed leather footwear before, and now I have two pairs of boots that need attention if they're going to stay gorgeous and functional for a long time.

Anyone have favourite products? Things I should keep in mind? Things I should never, ever do?

8 years ago

General

5 replies

Latest reply was from Keix

Eliza

Veteran

If I am waterproofing, I look for products that allow the item to breathe. I have had good luck with the function of these sprays, though their chemical scent sends me into a severe headache zone. I let the items air outside of the house for quite awhile and find it does dissipate after a day or two. Don't recommend spraying inside. Can't remember brand names.

I also just tried boot cream and oil that my equestrian daughter used on riding gear, not sure that it would "completely" waterproof, but big refresher of leather and they add protection while renewing the finish without such a caustic odor.

8 years ago

Diana

Veteran

I just use the Kiwi protect-all spray that you can find in most drugstores. It works well and is easy to use, and hasn't darkened any of my leather. It also works on suede. Like Eliza said, it's better to spray outside or in a well ventilated area as the aerosol is kind of smelly. Here it is at Amazon but you can just go buy it at the drugstore too:
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00F3H76HA?psc=1

Another product I like but that is more labor intensive is doc martens wonder balsam (find linked below). It's an oil/wax-like product that you run into smooth leather (like on docs, obviously). It acts as both a shoe polish and a water repellent which builds up over time. It's also great for removing scuffs. (I've refreshed handbags with it too!) The down side is you can only really use it on smooth, shiny leather (not suede or nubuck) and they recommend not to use it on light colored leather.

Zappos

Dr. Martens Wonder Shoe Balsam

$10.00

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8 years ago

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

Get water proofing spray from Nordies - they will ship it. That's the one I use.

8 years ago

SandyG

Veteran

AussieDog water repellent spray from outdoor stores has always worked for me. I treated my pale elk skin boots before a summer riding vacation, went through unexpected torrential rain/mud/snow the next 6 days and assumed my pretty boots would be ruined. But once they got dry, they looked good as new and retained the same pale color as before. I swear by this stuff, it's nearly magic.

8 years ago

Keix

Veteran

I use Kelly's Water Protector, which I bought on recommendation from a local cobbler as the product that they use. I LOVE it; the spray is super fine and has never darkened or stained any of my shoes, including very light-colored suede.

8 years ago

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