Tips for How to Waterproof Your Boots

You can get quite a bit more utility out of your boots by making sure they’re able to withstand exposure to water. Of course, if you didn’t purchase boots that were already waterproofed, you’ll need to perform the task yourself with waterproofing treatment. This is also a task you can perform on boots that have already seen a bit of wear and could use some treatment to restore their waterproof qualities.

Here are a few tips to help you get the best results when waterproofing boots in Baton Rouge, LA:

• Break them in: The boots should be somewhat broken in before you begin the waterproofing treatment. You can either wear them around the house, or you can go on a short hike during pleasant weather before you start the waterproofing process. Just make sure the boots don’t get exposed to water and debris before you are able to apply the solution.
• Clean them: Before you begin the treatment process, use a stiff brush to remove dirt and mud from your boots. You don’t want to put the waterproofing solution on top of dirt, because it might not stick, and even if it does, you’ll be left with dirt underneath the treatment.
• Seam sealing: Seam sealing is another type of boot or shoe treatment that helps you close up stitched seams on the boat. If you decide you wish to seam seal, you should do so before you begin waterproofing. Common locations to do this include where the sole and the upper meet, and any other stitched seams you’re able to find. You will find that this process keeps your feet even dryer, and will also help improve the durability of your boot. Ideally, the best way to complete this process accurately and efficiently is by using a syringe.
• Treating: Before you begin the treatment, remove all the laces from the boot. If the boot is new, use an oil treatment to soften the leather. If you have a smooth leather finish, you can use a wax, but don’t heat it up. Spread it on in a few thin coats. You can also use silicone treatments for either leather or synthetic, and they’ll be the easiest to apply because they spray on. Just keep in mind that those silicone sprays are not as durable as wax or oil.
• Cure: Once you’ve applied your waterproofing treatment of choice, you should allow the treatment to cure overnight. When you wake up, take a lint-free rag and remove any excess oil, wax or other moisture to prevent spots and drips.
• Soak in: Once you’ve wiped down the treated boots, place them in a warm, sunny spot to allow the treatment solution to properly soak into the leather. If the boots are tacky, that means you need to allow more conditioning time and should not wear them.

For more information about how to waterproof leather boots in Baton Rouge, LA, we encourage you to contact Acadian Leather today. We’ll be happy to answer any questions you have.

Categorised in: Boots, Leather Care