How to waterproof leather boot? (1 Viewer)

[u9jzp6]

Hi,

When I go out birding in the woods, I wear a pair of those tan leather work boots of the type that used to be worn mostly by construction workers. When I bought them they were treated with something to make them waterproof but it was has worn off and I have to put something on them to re-waterproof them. I rummaged around in my basement and found some "sno-proof" that comes in a small can and you spread over the leather with your fingers and I also found a silicone spray not specifically designed for hiking boots but ordinary shoes as well. I know the sno-proof is designed for hiking boots and I've used it before so that would work, but I'm wondering if anyone has experience with a silicon spray, I haven't used it on hiking boots - does it work as well? The spray seems like it is much easier, faster, and less messy to apply.


Thanks

 

[Keith Dickinson]

Silicon sprays can be quite effective at waterproofing boots. I use Nikwax water-based spray, you just ensure that you get a good even coating over the clean, dry boots and let it dry naturally. Re-apply every time the boots are heavily soiled, or if using them constantly in wet conditions then everyday.

 

[bitterntwisted]

I've never tried the new-fangled sprays. I've used Dubbin since my footballing days, and I'm quite happy with it. And some people seem even more excited about it... http://www.dubbin.com/

Graham

 

[bitterntwisted]

I thought I'd check my suggestion at my font of outdoors kit wisdom and they reckon I'm wrong. Apparently I should have switched to Nikwax or Graingers... http://www.outdoorsmagic.com/news/article/mps/uan/496 I think I'll use the rest of the Dubbin though - never had the stitching problem they mention and mine aren't Goretex lined (I did know you shouldn't use Dubbin on Goretex-lined boots)

Graham

 

[Keith Dickinson]

I'd use dubbin Graham but it screws up the goretex panels in the boots. They don't 'breathe' properly.
The Nikwax sprays are pump action, not pressurised so no ozone depletion implications

 

[Marmot]

When I worked outside I used to put URAD on my shoes and it kept them in good condition and waterproof to a certain degree. It is mainy used in the Horse world but is great for all things leather.

This is the one I used
http://www.lakeland.co.uk/F/keyword/urad/product/4780
there are very good reviews on this including someone that did put it on safety boots

But I noticed that they actually do one that does state Waterproofs and condition wax. If it is like the one I used it has the consistency of a creamy vaseline a little goes a long way and is easy to apply.
http://www.uradleathercare.co.uk/sh...04&cat=Urad+Waterproofer+and+conditioning+Wax+

 

[dogbreath]

I used Nikwax wax on m last pair of boots and it was effective. Recently, I had a pair of leather non-gortex boots made for me by Altberg in Richmond, Yorkshire. Wonderful boots by the way. Anyway, Altberg recommend Ledergris wax and say that dubbin is no good for modern leathers which are tanned differently from the way leather was tanned in the olden days. It is not just the stitching that can be affected. I cannot say whether the tanning is different from how it used to be done. But Altberg may be right. In any event, the use of a natural wax is unlikely to do any harm whereas dubbin might. Dubbin goes nowhere near my boots. I would advise the OP to get to a hiking shop and buy some modern waterproofing wax.

 

[Runaround]

For all leather boots, I prefer Sno-Seal. That stuff is great. For leather and fabric boots, some of the Nikwax products are a better choice.

 

[stbear]

+ 1 on Sno-Seal for leather.