Choose the Right Product for Your Boot Material

  • Smooth leather: Beeswax-based products (Nikwax Leather Proof, Dubbin, Sno-Seal) are best. They condition the leather while waterproofing. Avoid silicone sprays on leather — they can dry it out.
  • Suede and nubuck: Use a spray specifically labelled for suede (Scotchgard, Nikwax Nubuck and Suede). Never use wax or oil on suede — it permanently darkens and stiffens the nap.
  • Fabric and synthetic boots: DWR (Durable Water Repellent) sprays like Nikwax TX Direct or Grangers Performance Repel work well.
  • Gore-Tex and waterproof membrane boots: Nikwax TX Direct spray or Grangers — these reactivate the DWR coating on the membrane.
  1. 1

    Clean the boots first

    Waterproofing does not stick properly to dirty leather. Brush off any dried mud with a stiff brush. Clean with a damp cloth or appropriate boot cleaner. Let dry completely before applying any treatment — at least a few hours.

  2. 2

    Apply the waterproofing product

    For wax: use your fingers or a cloth to rub wax evenly over the entire leather surface, including seams. Pay extra attention to the welt (where upper meets sole) — this is where water enters most often. For sprays: hold 15–20cm from the boot and spray evenly across the whole surface in a well-ventilated area.

  3. 3

    Let it absorb

    Leave the product to absorb for 15–30 minutes. The leather will look dark initially — this is normal and lightens as it absorbs.

  4. 4

    Buff to finish (leather only)

    For wax on leather, buff with a clean cloth to remove any excess and bring up a light shine. Suede boots: use a suede brush to restore the nap after the spray dries.

  5. 5

    Apply a second coat for extra protection

    A second coat applied 30 minutes after the first significantly increases water resistance. Recommended for new boots or those being prepped for wet conditions.

When to reapplyThe test: sprinkle water on the boot. If it beads up and rolls off, the waterproofing is still active. If it soaks in, it is time to reapply. Most boots need treatment every 3–6 months with regular use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Wax-based products on leather temporarily darken the colour while wet, then lighten back as they dry and absorb. This is normal and the boots return to near their original colour. Silicone sprays and DWR sprays on fabric generally do not affect colour. Never use wax on suede or nubuck — it permanently changes colour and texture.
No boot is truly 100% waterproof indefinitely. DWR treatments and wax coatings significantly reduce water absorption but heavy rain over extended periods will eventually penetrate most boots. Gore-Tex and other membrane boots offer the best waterproofing but even membranes degrade over time and require DWR reactivation.