How To Waterproof Leather Boots

There’s absolutely nothing worse than stepping into a puddle with brand new leather boots, only to feel the water pour in, causing a bad case of soggy feet.

Leather boots are stylish, sturdy boots that can last forever when you take care of them. The only problem is that they are far from waterproof. Luckily, there are a handful of different methods on how to waterproof leather boots.

When you treat them right, leather boots can last forever. Part of taking care of your leather boots is learning how to waterproof leather boots properly. Keep reading to learn more about how to waterproof leather boots with 4 different products and how you can keep them that way.

Why You Need To Waterproof Your Leather Boots

Water damage is what ruins most leather boots, instead of usual wear and tear. It doesn’t matter how thick the leather is or where the leather is from.

Typically, leather is made from the hide or skin of a cow, goat, deer, or buffalo leather. None of these animals can repel water even when they’re alive.

Since leather is skin, it soaks up water just like it would as if it were still alive on whatever animal it came from. So, you’ll have to apply a barrier that repels water from the boots, instead of letting the water soak in, which ruins the leather in the long term. 

How To Waterproof Leather Boots

Weatherproofing leather boots couldn’t be simpler. All you’ll need is a good waterproofing sealant like wax, cream, or spray to waterproof leather boots, and you’ll be able to keep them in good condition for years to come.

Using a Wax

While waterproof wax, like Skidmore’s natural beeswax, lasts much longer than a spray, it is a bit more work. It’s also the best method for lighter tan leathers because it doesn’t change the color of the leather, like many other waterproofing solutions.

Using Mink Oil

Mink oil is another great natural conditioner and waterproofing agent for leather. It comes from the natural oil in mink fur that allows the semi-aquatic mink to stay dry and warm in cold water, much like beavers.

Mink oil comes in different consistencies. There is raw mink oil, mink oil paste, and mink oil aerosol sprays. If you choose the oil version, like Jobsite’s Neatsfoot Oil, it needs to be applied lightly and delicately, since it will likely darken the leather of the boots somewhat, making it better for darker brown and black leather. 

Here’s how:

Using a Waterproof Cream

Before you start, note that some waterproofing creams may cause your leather boots to darken a bit, so it’s important to read the instructions before applying waterproof creams like Aqua Seal. It’s also very important to clean your boots before using waterproof cream.

Using a Sealer Spray

Using waterproofing spray like M&B Pro-Tex is usually the quickest way to waterproof leather boots but doesn’t last as long as the waxes or creams. Also, when using sprays, it’s safer and cleaner to do this outside to avoid slippery floors or fume inhalation.

The Drying Process

After you’ve applied the waterproofing solution of your choice onto your boots, make sure that you dry them in a well-ventilated room with a small amount of humidity for up to 24 hours, depending on the product’s instructions.

Also, do not try to speed the drying up by placing the boots near an air vent, direct sunlight, or with a hairdryer. This will only dry out the leather, which destroys crack the waterproof barrier. Instead, stick them on your porch or by an open window. The air will take care of the rest.

Other Tips For Maintaining Leather Boots

The best way to keep your leather boots in tip-top shape is to show them a little TLC. Here are some other tips to help you waterproof your leather boots and to keep them waterproof.

Fixing Cracks or Sealing Seams

To prevent leakage in the seams and soles of your boots, you can use a hot glue gun or shoe goo to seal them off. Simply follow the line of the seams, as if you were caulking them.

Seasonal Care and Upkeep

In the wintertime, pavement is full of salt, which breaks down the waterproof solutions. Make sure to wipe off your boots when they’ve been exposed to salt to keep them waterproof and clean.

Reapplication Is Important

For the best level of protection, you have to regularly reapply waterproof sealant every six months to a year. If you don’t, your boots will lose their water resistance and you will end up with soggy feet again.