If shoes get wet more often, their breathability decreases over time – this applies above all to sensitive materials such as leather, since their pores are not closed during further processing. Therefore, they are neither waterproof nor dirt-resistant and therefore automatically more susceptible to dirt or moisture. However, if you waterproof your shoes, preferably before you wear them for the first time (but also at regular intervals afterwards), you protect them from moisture and dirt. But which products are best suited for this and how do you use them correctly? We’ll tell you.
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Most use a classic waterproofing spray to protect their shoes. But there are other products that achieve the same effect. Below you can find out what they are and how to use them.
1. Waterproofing spray This is the most common product for waterproofing shoes. Most sprays are suitable for textiles, leather and high-tech fabrics, but you should always check the packaging before you buy. Depending on the manufacturer, the type of application can differ, so always read the fine print. In principle, a waterproofing spray should always be suitable for shoes made of suede (i.e. suede and nubuck leather) or synthetics. And this is how the product is used: Spray the shoes with a safety distance of at least 30 centimeters all around. Allow the product to absorb briefly, repeat the process (if recommended by the manufacturer) and wait 24 hours before wearing for the first time.
Important: Only use a waterproofing spray outdoors and be careful not to inhale the fumes.
2. Shoe wax or cream As an alternative to the waterproofing spray, you can also use shoe wax or shoe cream for outdoor and hiking shoes. Both products have a caring and protective function. Smooth leather in particular can be treated well with a wax or a cream, as the contents have to be worked into the surface of the shoes with a clean cloth. If possible, remove the shoelaces beforehand to impregnate the entire surface. You should then wait at least 24 hours before wearing the shoes outside. So that the wax or cream can be absorbed more easily, it also makes sense to moisten the leather beforehand – the same also applies to using a waterproofing spray.
Another note: If you want to impregnate so-called Gore-Tex shoes, you should not use oily or greasy care products such as shoe wax – as this would impair the functionality of the membrane. The classic impregnation spray is the better choice here, as it does not clog the pores. There are even special care products that you can use for cycling shoes (and clothing).
Unfortunately, waterproofing new shoes is far from enough: wearing them exposes them to all kinds of weather conditions – and sooner or later they lose their protection. In order to maintain this permanently, especially sensitive leather, sports and outdoor shoes made of suede and suede (smooth leather is less susceptible to moisture and dirt) should be treated regularly: However, before you start the actual waterproofing, dried dust and dirt residues must be removed be removed. It is best to use a suitable shoe brush for this. The next steps were explained in the previous paragraph.
After the first impregnation, your shoes should be treated at regular intervals. How often exactly depends on the respective materials. In principle, however, you can assume that the protection against dirt and moisture will decrease within four to eight weeks – depending on how often you wear the shoes. At the latest, however, when you notice that your feet are getting wet because the material is soaking up water, it is time to re-impregnate with the appropriate spray, cream or wax.
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