Water Proofing Your Boots: Why and How Should You Do It

No one likes the feeling of having their feet soaked wet because of the bad weather and flooding. Investing in a good pair of boots solves your problem, but of course, you have to avoid the wear and tear of it.

You might be thinking to look for the best waterproof workboots and expect that everything will be solved. However, if you want to make the most out of it and keep it for a longer period, you have to maintain its treatment regularly.

Here are some reasons why you should try waterproofing your boots:

1. It maintains cleanliness and hygiene

Having moist and wet boots can be a potential breeding ground for bacteria that can cause skin infections. Also, exposure to floodwater that possibly contains contaminants can pose a health hazard as well.

Having your boots waterproof will keep floodwater to make contact on your skin. Keeping your feet dry will also prevent your feet from developing blisters.

2. Can make your boots more durable

Waterproofing your boots means preventing liquids to seep through its soles. By avoiding this, water will not be able to dissolve and damage the adhesive that keeps your boots intact, which can extend its lifespan.

3. Provides boot traction and prevents slip

Waterproof safety shoes provide strong grips in surfaces thus providing traction and slip resistance. You can’t avoid walking on slippery surfaces and uneven tracks so wearing it will reduce the risk of slipping and injury. 

How do you make your boots waterproof?

Step 1: Know the material of your boots

There are different waterproofing methods that you can use depending on the type of material your boots are made of.

• Leather - This is the most common material used for boots. Sprays, waxes and cream work well for this material. If the leather of your boots are smooth, opt to use oil or silicone based sprays. On the other hand, if you have nubuck leather boots, use acrylic polymer spray.

• Suede - Sprays and waxes created for suede can be used. Look for acrylic copolymer sprays for treating suede boots.

• Synthetic- Sprays work best for synthetic materials.

Step 2: Clean your boots

Dirt in your boots can hold moisture that will render the waterproofing treatment less effective. Clean your boots by brushing dirt and other debris, then take off and clean its laces and soles. You can also choose to wash it in running water and use any trusted boot cleaner you have.

Step 3: Start applying the waterproofing product

The boots should be wet before product application. You can either soak them in water or wrap them in wet towels, two to three hours before you intend to treat them.

Make sure that it is soaked in the entire thickness of the leather. Once it is thoroughly soaked, you can now begin applying the product. There are different types of waterproofing products that you can choose from-- either spray, wax or cream.

Here is the general guide on how to apply each product type:

• Spray- Hold the can six inches away from your boots and spray thinly and even. Some sprays require another coating so make sure to check your product.

• Wax- Slightly warm the wax first before applying the product to your boots. Use a cloth to wipe in the wax. Remove excess product and buff to shine.

• Cream- Apply the cream using the applicator that comes with it or a clean cloth. Then rub it in the entire surface until there are no more excess cream.

Step 4: Dry your boots

You should allow the treatment to sink in and cure overnight. Place your boots in a dry place with normal temperature. Do not try to use any heat source because it will be damaged.

You should make sure that the boots have entirely dried up and should not feel sticky, or else, you will attract dirt and moisture that will make your waterproofing fail. Once done, you can just wipe off excess product.

Step 5:  Store it properly

You want your boots to be waterproof for a more extended period, therefore, you have to store it in a dry place with normal temperature.

Now that you have successfully waterproofed your boots, you are now ready to take on your journey -- working in rough trails, standing in waters and hustling in mud without having to worry about your feet getting dirty, injured, or soaked on flood. Maintain its good quality so you can save money and do not need to buy another pair of waterproof boots.