How to Waterproof Hiking Boots (Leather, Suede & Fabric Guide)

Depending on how often you wear your hiking boots, it will be necessary to re-waterproof them after a certain period of use. Whether they are leather, suede, nubuck, or even fabric, this guide will enlighten you on how to waterproof hiking boots or walking shoes so that you can protect your feet from moisture.

This guide outlines the various uses and respective methods of applying seal grease, shoe polish, and waterproofing products for hiking boots. It’s important to note that the traditional Seal Fats are now replaced by mineral and vegetable oils.

Our Waterproofing Evaluation Method

We evaluate hiking boot waterproofing methods based on material compatibility, application requirements, water repellency, drying time, breathability considerations, and ease of maintenance. Our recommendations also consider footwear manufacturer instructions and guidance from established outdoor gear specialists.

When discussing field performance, we distinguish direct testing observations from manufacturer guidance and general care recommendations.

How Often Should You Waterproof Hiking Boots?

You don’t need to waterproof hiking boots after every hike. Instead, check their water repellency regularly, particularly after frequent use in wet or muddy conditions. Here are some signs that your boots =need another waterproofing treatment:

• Water stops beading: Water absorbs into the outer material instead of rolling off.
• The outer material gets saturated: Fabric or leather becomes noticeably wet during normal exposure to rain.
• The original treatment has worn off: Your boots no longer repel moisture as effectively as they did when new.
• After thorough cleaning: Some cleaning processes can reduce surface water repellency, making a compatible DWR treatment necessary.

Clean your boots before applying another treatment, and always follow the product manufacturer’s instructions.

How to Waterproof Hiking Boots

Now let’s see how to waterproof different types of hiking boots step by step:

Waterproofing Leather Boots

Full-grain leather offers some natural resistance to moisture, but it is not completely waterproof. Over time, exposure to water, dirt, and repeated use can reduce its water resistance and dry out the leather.

A suitable leather waterproofing treatment can help repel water while maintaining the material’s flexibility. Always choose a product recommended by the boot manufacturer.

• Clean your leather hiking boots thoroughly.
• Apply a small amount of seal grease to a clean cloth and rub the leather gently. If the grease is too hard and this makes it too difficult or impossible to apply directly, heat it using a hair dryer to soften it.
• Repeat the operation as many times as necessary.
• Let it dry naturally for 30 to 60 minutes. Above all, don’t apply a direct heat source to the shoes in the hope of drying them more quickly: this could permanently damage the leather.
• Blot the grease with a dry cloth.

Not all leather hiking boots should be treated with heavy grease or wax. These products can darken leather, soften some boot constructions, and reduce breathability.

Before applying any treatment, check the manufacturer’s care instructions and test the product on a small, inconspicuous area. For boots with waterproof membranes, use a compatible treatment instead of assuming traditional leather grease is suitable.

Treat Leather Hiking Boots

Nourishing cream for leather hiking boots will help you maintain the original flexibility of your boots. But it is important not to repeat the operation too frequently because your hiking boots must still retain certain support. Apply the cream only when you notice that the leather becomes dry and/or brittle, and not after each use.

The treatment of leather hiking boots is generally more effective when the boot is damp or wet because the treating product will be absorbed more easily. As the water evaporates, the product will be drawn to the interior pores of the leather.

• Use a small amount of nourishing cream, either directly on your fingers or on a clean cloth, and spread it evenly over the entire shoe, including the edges and seams.
• Leave to act for a few minutes at room temperature.
• Remove any excess cream and let it dry naturally. Do not expose directly to a heat source.

Waterproofing Suede or Nubuck Shoes

A waterproofing spray specially designed for shoes is ideal for restoring the waterproof properties of your suede or nubuck shoes. Above all, do not apply seal grease to suede or nubuck shoes. Seal grease is intended for use on smooth leather only and can destroy the ‘hairy’ appearance of both suede and nubuck and may leave permanent marks.

• Clean the shoes properly.
• Use a waterproofing spray and apply it about 5 cm from the shoe. Make sure that the applied layer is uniform over the entire shoe.
• Allow drying before reuse. Don’t try to speed up the drying time by using a hair dryer or any other heat source. Let it dry naturally.
• A shoe brush can be used to restore the original “hairy” texture of the shoe.

Waterproofing Fabric Boots

A re-waterproofing spray will help restore the waterproof properties of your fabric walking and/or hiking boots. Fabric boots can be more difficult to clean than leather boots, but it’s worth investing some effort in getting them clean. The dirt and dust that settle on the fibers of the fabric can result in the irreversible degradation of the material, considerably reducing the life of your pair of boots.

Clean the hiking boots. Fabric footwear can be re-waterproofed wet or dry. However, it may be preferable to wash and dry your boots first, then apply the waterproofing spray the next day, and finally, let them dry again overnight before putting them back on. Although it takes a bit more time, it will make it easier to spot areas where you’ve already applied the spray than if you were applying it to a wet boot.

However, some people think that the product will soak in more deeply if the shoe is damp or wet. Whether you choose to apply the product to the boots dry or wet, once the operation is complete, let your hiking boots air out completely before putting them back on.

🧭 Real-World Experience from Field Testing

During repeated use in wet hiking conditions, we noticed that proper waterproofing significantly improves comfort and foot protection—but results depend heavily on application quality and material type.

🌧 What Worked in Real Rainy Hikes

In heavy rain and muddy trails, leather boots treated with seal grease performed best in keeping water out during short to medium hikes.

For longer trekking sessions, choosing the right footwear makes a big difference, especially when using durable options like those in our guide to the best hiking boots for long distance or general top-performing models from the top-rated hiking boots roundup.

We also found that comfort during wet hikes improves significantly when combined with proper socks, especially moisture-wicking options like the best merino wool hiking socks.

Suede and fabric boots, when treated with waterproof spray, stayed dry for a limited time but required reapplication after several wet outings. Proper drying time between applications made a noticeable difference in long-term performance.

⚠️ Common Mistakes We Made While Waterproofing Boots

Through our waterproofing evaluations, we identified several mistakes that can reduce water repellency, affect boot comfort, and potentially damage certain footwear materials.

Applying Waterproofing Products to Dirty Boots

One mistake is applying waterproofing treatments before removing mud, dust, and accumulated dirt. These contaminants can interfere with product coverage and reduce the effectiveness of the treatment.

Always clean your boots according to the manufacturer’s instructions and allow them to reach the recommended condition before applying a waterproofing product.

2. Using Direct Heat to Speed Up Drying

Using a hairdryer, radiator, or other direct heat source to dry treated boots can damage leather, adhesives, and other footwear components. We recommend allowing boots to air-dry naturally at room temperature. Follow the waterproofing product’s instructions for the appropriate drying time before wearing them again.

3. Applying Too Much Wax or Grease

More waterproofing product does not necessarily mean better protection. Excessive wax or grease can make some leather boots softer, heavier, or less breathable.

It also affects their original appearance. Apply a thin, even layer of a compatible treatment and remove excess product with a clean cloth. Always check the boot manufacturer’s care recommendations before treating leather footwear.

4. Ignoring Boot Fit and Comfort

Waterproofing protects footwear from moisture, but it cannot compensate for poor fit. Boots that are too tight can create pressure points, while loose footwear may cause friction and blisters during longer hikes.

Check the fit around your heel, midfoot, and toe box before heading onto the trail. Hikers who need additional support or pressure relief can also explore our guide to the best hiking boots for plantar fasciitis and recommendations for the best hiking boots for narrow feet.

👢 Before and After Results

Before treatment, boots quickly absorbed water after walking through wet grass or shallow puddles. After proper waterproofing, water began to bead on the surface and roll off instead of soaking in. However, after several hikes, we noticed that reapplication is necessary to maintain full protection—especially for fabric and suede materials.

Which Waterproofing Treatment Should You Use?

Choosing the right waterproofing treatment depends on your hiking boot’s outer material and construction.

Tips: Always check your boot manufacturer’s instructions before applying a product. Some treatments can darken leather or affect breathability.

FAQs About How to Waterproof Hiking Boots

When should I waterproof my hiking boots?

Ideally, waterproof your hiking boots before you embark on a hiking trip, especially if you expect wet or rainy conditions. If you notice your boots are no longer repelling water effectively, it’s time to reapply the waterproofing treatment.

Can I use any waterproofing product for hiking boots?

We recommend choosing a waterproofing product specifically designed for hiking boots. Look for products that are compatible with the material of your boots (e.g., leather, synthetic). Popular options include wax-based treatments, silicone sprays, and water-repellent creams.

Can I use heat to speed up the drying process after waterproofing?

It’s best to let the waterproofing treatment dry naturally. Applying heat, such as using a hairdryer or placing the boots near a heater, can cause the materials to dry too quickly. However, it can potentially compromise the effectiveness of the treatment. Allow the boots to air dry at room temperature for optimal results.

Can I waterproof boots with Gore-Tex or other waterproof membranes?

Boots with built-in waterproof membranes like Gore-Tex already have a level of water resistance. However, these membranes can benefit from additional waterproofing treatments. Use products that are compatible with such membranes to enhance the overall water repellency and prolong the life of the boots.

Yes. Hiking boots with GORE-TEX or other waterproof membranes can benefit from regular cleaning and compatible water-repellent treatments. However, these treatments maintain the water repellency of the outer material rather than repairing or strengthening the waterproof membrane.

When water stops beading on the outer fabric, clean the boots and apply a manufacturer-approved, membrane-compatible DWR treatment. Avoid traditional waxes and greases unless the boot manufacturer specifically recommends them, as they can affect breathability. For boots with a GORE-TEX membrane, always follow the manufacturer’s footwear care recommendations.

Does waterproofing spray work on hiking boots?

Yes. Waterproofing sprays can help restore water repellency on suede, nubuck, synthetic, and some combination-material hiking boots. However, you must choose a spray specifically designed for your footwear material. Clean the boots first, apply the product according to its instructions, and allow them to dry completely before hiking.

Conclusion

Waterproofing your hiking boots properly helps protect your feet from moisture, maintain comfort, and extend the life of your footwear. The right treatment depends on the boot’s material, so always choose products designed for leather, suede, nubuck, or synthetic fabrics. Before applying any waterproofing treatment, clean your boots thoroughly and follow the manufacturer’s care instructions.

Avoid excessive wax or grease, and allow your footwear to dry naturally after treatment. Regularly check whether water still beads on the outer material and reapply a compatible treatment when needed. With proper cleaning, waterproofing, and maintenance, you can keep your hiking boots in better condition and enjoy more comfortable hikes in wet and muddy conditions.

See Also:

• How to Clean Hiking Boots (10 Tips)
• How to Choose the Right Size of Hiking Boots?
• How to Choose Mountaineering Boots
• How to Clean Climbing Shoes In 3 Steps