Avid backpackers and hikers will know the importance of quality hiking boots and the need to waterproof them time and again. Waterproofing boots makes them able to fight off all weather conditions, be it bad or normal. You might not know this but other than a pair of cold and wet pair of socks some things can ruin your day – like moisture penetrating your hiking boots that can be a reason for uncomfortable walking or maybe blisters.

Waterproofing treatment then comes as a saviour and protect your feet from getting soggy to ensure an easy and comfortable walk.

Wondering how to waterproof them the right way? You can use these following tips and they’ll guarantee to remain dry.

Waterproofing Leather Boots

Leather is one such material that can dry out over time or if not given proper care, or can even crack if its moisture and natural oils are lost. Therefore, waterproofing becomes important to make them perform for years to come. Dubbin wax is one of the best products that can help restore the waterproof properties of your boots and can also soften and condition the leather.

How You Do It:

  1. Start by cleaning your hiking boots thoroughly.
  2. Get a hairdryer and give gentle heat to them, as doing so will help the boots absorb the wax easily.
  3. Use a little amount of the wax to a rough cloth and carefully, rub it over the leather. In case, you feel the wax is very hard to be applied, seek help from the hairdryer and soften it.
  4. Repeat it as required.
  5. Keep it aside for 30-60 minutes and let them dry naturally. Remember, you should apply direct heat to get things done faster, as it can cause the leather to crack.
  6. Remove the wax out using a dry cloth.

Waterproofing Nubuck and Suede Leather Hiking Boots

You must know that not every leather calls for the same waterproofing method. If you own a suede or nubuck leather hiking boots, they need a waterproof spray made especially for them. Never use dubbin wax for these shoes, even if there’s an emergency, because the wax is for smooth leather and can destroy the look and feel of your suede or nubuck boots.

How You Do It:

  1. Start by cleaning your hiking boots.
  2. Get a re-proofing spray and spray it all over the boots from a distance of 5cm. Ensure that the coating is done evenly.
  3. Before you use them, keep the boots aside for drying naturally. Never use a hairdryer or any other source of heat to dry them faster.
  4. Bring a footwear brush and use it to restore the original finish of your boots.

Waterproofing Fabric Boots

Fabric hiking boots have different properties, therefore needs to be treated differently. A ‘spray on proofer’ will be a nice choice to restore the waterproofing properties. These kind of boots can be quite difficult to clean in contrast to the leather boots. But a little elbow grease can do the job well. The prime reason for the fabric boots getting worn out is the dirt particles remained in the fabric that make them perform poorly.

How You Do It:

  1. Start by cleaning your hiking boots properly.
  2. No matter wet or dry, you can easily re-proof your fabric boots. Use the re-proofer during the following day and keep the boots aside for overnight and let them dry naturally. Yes, the process demands a little time, but that way you can easily see where you have sprayed as compared to applying the spray on to the wet hiking boots.
  3. Be it spraying on the wet or dry boots, make sure once you have applied it, the boots should get dry completely before using for the next day.

So, these were those trouble-free ways you can use to waterproof your hiking boots. If you’ve reproofed them and can see no results, it’s time you need a new pair.