There's nothing worse than walking around in wet, muddy shoes. We show some natural ways to make shoes waterproof. But before you get into it, you should know the proper steps to take before waterproofing. Read on to find out our tips!
What are the benefits of waterproofed shoes?
There are many reasons why you should waterproof shoes. Below are the top 4 reasons for waterproof shoes and boots.
- Keep your feet dry
- Prevents cold feet
- Prevent blisters that form when wet feet slide around in shoes
- Protect your shoes from stains and water while extending their lifespan.
How to prepare shoes for waterproofing
Before you begin any of the waterproofing procedures listed below, be sure to consider the following 3 things:
Break in your shoes
If your shoes are new or have never been worn, it is important that you break them in. Running in is not only a good way,so that the shoesto fit your feet, but it also stretches them to prepare them for waterproofing. Many waterproofing methods can stiffen your shoes, making them difficult to break in afterwards.
Clean your shoes
Before waterproofing your shoes, they should be clean, free of dust, dirt or removable stains. A damp cloth or shoe cloth is sufficient for most real and faux leather. You don't want dirt to get trapped under the waterproof layer!
Make sure the shoes are dry
Place your shoes in the dryer in a mesh bag. After they are as clean as possible, let them dry. Most drying methodsof shoes requirea dry surface. Air drying is best.
Do a spot test first
As with all shoe modifications, you should always test on a small or invisible area. Especially if you're just learning how to waterproof shoes! Are you wondering where you should carry out a test?
Best on the inside of the shoe, e.g. B. on the tongue, on the inner wall of the shoe near the ground or on a low part of the heel. You don't want to waterproof an entire shoe only to find that it's ruined or the material has changed its appearance!
You can use beeswax, soy wax, carnauba wax, bay wax, candelilla wax, or any other type of wax you can find. Now rub the shoe or boot with the wax by brushing the wax over the surface of the shoe. Make sure you cover the entire surface and don't miss any spots.
Make sure you have adequate coverage on all external parts of the shoe, including the heel, toes, near the laces, seams and the outsole. You should apply the wax in thin layers so that it doesn't spread too muchon the shoedeposited. Most wax becomes clear when melted. Place your shoes or boots on a few layers of newspaper. Heat the wax with a hairdryer aimed at the surface of the shoe. The wax melts when you run a hairdryer over it.
Go slowly and let the wax melt as you move along the surface. Work your way from top to bottom. When you're done, let the wax cool and put your shoes on. Flex the toes to see if the wax cracks. The layer should be so thin that it does not crack. If this still happens, melt the same area again.
Pour water on a small part of the shoe to see if the waterproofing was successful. If not, you can always apply a second or third coat of wax to ensure the material is thoroughly waterproofed.
When is it necessary to reapply the wax?
If you wear your shoes frequently, you may need to wax them from time to time. A single application should last six months to a year with average use. Don't be afraid to re-wax your shoes at any time if they start to leak.
Make your own natural leather oil
There are leather oils that can restore and waterproof your shoes. Leather oil is practical and easy to use. You can make your own leather oil yourself.
This is what you need for your homemade leather oil:
100 g Coconut beer
120g beeswax
DIY Instructions:
Weigh out the coconut oil and beeswax and melt them together. If you prefer, you can also melt it in a glass bowl over a pot of simmering water.
Once melted, pour into silicone molds or a metal tin. Allow the mixture to harden. You can speed up this process by placing the mass in the freezer or refrigerator.
Warm the wax disk in your hand to use it. Spread it out generouslyon your shoesor boots. Use a horsehair brush to brush the wax into the leather. Continue brushing the shoes until the wax is incorporated into the leather. You don't need to wait. Put them on immediately!
