One of the accessories in our wardrobe that takes the worst beating is our shoes. Shoes are subjected to all kinds of surfaces, from hot pavements, puddles, slush and so much more. No wonder they’re so expensive! A good pair of shoes can burn quite a hole in your pocket, so after spending so much on a new pair, you’d definitely want it to last. Spending a few more dollars on the best waterproof shoe spray is a good way to go. Water repellent will help protect your shoes from the elements and prolong their life.
While there are waterproof sprays that are exclusively for shoes, the best waterproofing sprays are those that are versatile. These can be used on a large number of accessories such as your shoes, wallets, belts, camping gear, and tents.
How To Choose The Best Waterproof Shoe Spray
When choosing the best waterproof shoe spray there are some important things that you need to keep in mind. Though your top priority is effective protection, there are other things that you should be aware of.
Compatibility
Certain waterproof shoe sprays are only meant for specified materials. All sprays are not compatible with every material. So before you pick up that waterproof spray and begin to douse your expensive shoes in it, make sure that it’s compatible. You don’t want the color of your shoes to change because you’ve used the wrong spray.
Drying Time
Different waterproof sprays for shoes have different drying times. Some sprays dry within 15 minutes while others may take 24 hours or longer. Read the directions at the back of the can carefully to get the best results out of your waterproof shoe spray. If you’re looking for something that dries quickly, you’ll need to be sure that the spray you pick up is quick-drying. You can’t hurry up the process or you’ll be quite disappointed.
Why Should I Use Waterproofing For My Shoes?
Like we mentioned earlier, a good pair of shoes is one of the more expensive fashion accessories out there. After you’ve splurged on a pair of shoes, you’d hate for them to get ruined by rain or stains. The best way to ensure your shoes go the distance is by spraying them with a waterproof layer. The best waterproof shoe sprays also help restore older shoes, making them look as good as new.
How Long Does Waterproof Shoe Spray Last?
Most waterproof shoe sprays last for a minimum of two weeks. However, this would also depend on the usage and the brand. Some waterproof sprays can even last for a few months! When droplets of water stop forming beads on the surface of your shoes it’s time to reapply the spray.
Do I Need To Spray My Waterproof Hiking Shoes?
The best waterproof hiking shoes may not need to be sprayed out of the box as they are factory treated with a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) finish. However, the factory waterproofing will not last forever. When you notice water seeping into your shoes, it’s time to waterproof them. Be sure to read the product descriptions before application.
Collonil Carbon Pro Waterproofing (CU)
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Using a brand new carbon fiber technology, the Collonil Carbon Pro Waterproofing Spray should definitely be amongst your arsenal for protecting your apparel. The high-tech protection that this spray offers is perfect for all materials. Whether it’s your boots, shoes, leather, suede, or textiles that need protection, this spray doesn’t disappoint. It works well on vachetta (untreated) leather too without darkening it.
Another plus point about this German-made waterproof spray is that it does not discolor your shoes. It also allows the leather of your shoes to breathe without spoiling them. This spray is especially recommended for Tieks shoes so if you have a pair you should consider getting a can of this waterproof spray.
Pros:
- Effective carbon-fiber technology
- Perfect for all materials
- Works well on untreated leather
- Does not discolor your shoes
- Allows shoes to breathe
Cons:
- Waterproofing does not last long
Moneysworth & Best Suede & Nubuck Protector
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Offering year-round weather and stain protection, Moneysworth & Best’s Pro-Tex Water & Stain Shoe Protector is an excellent option for all genuine or man-made leathers. The quick-drying fluoropolymer compound creates invisible, breathable protection. Another versatile spray, it can be used on man-made leathers, suede, nubuck, and fabric. However, you cannot use it on vinyl or patent leather.
You can be certain that your shoes will be well protected from rain, snow, salt, and stains after you apply this waterproof shoe spray. If you’re concerned about cracks or discoloration, you can breathe easy with this spray. It helps in the prevention of cracking, fading, and discoloration.
Pros:
- Quick-drying fluoropolymer compound helps in protecting shoes
- Can be used on a variety of material
- Help prevent cracking, fading, and discoloration
- Breathable protection
Cons:
- Doesn’t spray neatly but tends to drip a little
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Atsko Silicone Water-Guard
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Most of the best waterproof shoe sprays are extremely versatile like the Atsko Silicone Water-Guard. They don’t just work on shoes but on a large variety of apparel or gear. You can safely spray Atsko on footwear, tents, sleeping bags, and suede. The spray dries in 24 hours but takes 72 hours to fully cure your shoes.
You don’t need to soak the fabric with the spray as the best results are achieved when it’s used sparingly. Soaking your shoes in waterproof spray could also alter the color. Despite providing an invisible, protective layer it allows your shoes to breathe. Another great thing about this product is that it doesn’t use CFCs.
Pros:
- Can be used on a variety of materials
- Allows the shoes to breathe
- Easy to spray on
- Free of CFCs
Cons:
- Can discolor your shoes if too much is applied
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Apple Brand Garde Rain & Stain Repellent
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If you’re on the lookout for the best waterproof shoe spray for your leather boots, Apple Brand Garde Rain & Stain Repellent stands out. You won’t need to worry about stains with this product. It protects your leather by forming an invisible layer that repels grease, water spots, or any other stain. So if you accidentally spill coffee or wine on any of your leather goods, you won’t have to stress too much about the stains.
Another thing you won’t have to worry about is discoloration. You can rest easy about this product altering the color of your shoes or handbag, as it won’t. It doesn’t leave a sticky residue either. However, don’t try to use this spray on pebbled leather or you may ruin it.
Pros:
- Works well with leather products
- Multipurpose for shoes, wallets, belts, car interiors and more
- Does not leave a residue
Cons:
- Has a strong smell so make sure to use it in a well ventilated area
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Saphir Medaille d’Or Super Invulner – Waterproof Spray for Leather Shoes & Boots
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One of the best waterproof shoe sprays for high-end shoes and boots is Saphir Medaille d’Or Super Invulner. Touted as the highest-end collection of shoe care products worldwide, this French brand that has been around since 1925 has stayed true to its formulations. It uses natural products that benefit fine leather.
Ideal for all types of leather including suede, nubuck, and delicate textiles, this spray waterproofs and protects from stains. The neutral color and slow drying formula will not leave any white marks or discolor your leather. Using this spray is pretty simple at a distance of 12 to 18 inches away. Make sure to clean your shoes with a brush before using the spray. Wait 30 minutes for it to dry to get the best results.
Pros:
- Good for high-end shoes
- Uses natural products that benefit leather
- Does not leave any white marks or discolor your shoes
- Easy to use
Cons:
- Couldn’t find much to fault with this
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Sof Sole Water Proofer
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Specifically designed for athletic and performance materials, the Sof Sole Water Proofer is undoubtedly an excellent waterproof shoe spray for your sneakers or other workout gear. The spray not only protects your footwear, hats, and jackets from water, it also maintains the fabric’s breathability. It’s fairly simple to use and dries within minutes to protect your shoes for months.
With the use of Nanotechnology, water and moisture form beads and roll off the material. However, as with any new product that you use it’s always a good idea to test it on a small area first.
Pros:
- Good for athletic and performance materials
- Maintains breathability of the fabric
- Can be used on footwear, hats, and jackets
- Easy to apply and dries within minutes
Cons:
- The spray nozzle tends to leak a bit after some usage
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Tarrago High Tech Nano Protector Spray
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In the business of providing shoe and leather care solutions since 1940, the Spanish company Tarrago has one of the best waterproof shoe sprays in the market. Tarrago’s High Tech Nano Protector Spray is suitable for a variety of materials. Leather, suede, nubuck, and textile fibers will benefit from an application of this waterproof spray. You can restore your favorite shoes and bags when using this spray.
Based on revolutionary Nanotechnology, the spray makes the shoe fibers repellent to water and dirt. This does not mean that it will compromise on the shoe’s breathability though. For the best results make sure to first clean the surface of your shoes and then follow the instructions for application. One thing to note is that this colorless spray is not suitable for patented or metalized leather.
Pros:
- Nanotechnology protects shoes from water and dirt
- Does not compromise on breathability
- Restores your shoes and bags
Cons:
- While spraying slight fumes are released so its best done in a well-ventilated space
- Shoes need to be sprayed frequently
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Crep Protect Ultimate Rain and Stain Spray
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Suitable for a wide variety of shoe materials the Crep Protect Ultimate Rain and Stain Spray is another of the best waterproof shoe sprays to have with you. It works on Suede, Nubuck, and Canvas and provides protection for up to two weeks. It protects your shoes with the aid of two different barriers. While the first barrier repels liquids and prevents stains, the second barrier protects against dust and rain.
Applying this product on your shoes is fairly simple even for young children. Like with any thing that you use, make sure to read the directions at the back of the can for the best results.
Pros:
- Easy to apply
- Suitable for Suede, Nubuck, and Canvas
- Creates two barriers of protection
Cons:
- Doesn’t last long
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Rust-Oleum NeverWet Shoe Spray
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A popular brand for its innovative coatings for floors, roofs, and counter-tops is Rust-Oleum. The brand has diversified into manufacturing protection for shoes and boots, with its waterproof shoe spray at the top of ratings. This superhydrophobic Rust-Oleum NeverWet Shoe Spray protects shoes and boots from damage caused by liquids.
An easy one-step application creates moisture repelling barrier on your shoes. You won’t need to worry about discoloration with this crystal clear, silicone-free formula. Besides repelling water, ice, mud stains, and more, it also allows the fabric to breathe.
Pros:
- Super-hydrophobic coating
- Crystal-clear silicone-free formula
- Suitable for leather, suede, nubuck, and canvas
Cons:
- Too much liquid is sprayed at a time which is a bit of a wastage
- Has a strong smell when opened
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Bickmore Gard-More Water & Stain Repellent
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Shoes need the best waterproof shoe spray to continue to look their best even after constant use. With the Bickmore Gard-More Water & Stain Repellent, you can expect your shoes to continue to look and feel great. This specially formulated spray adds a protective layer to shoes and other goods to minimize scuffing and rub off. This invisible layer of protection maintains the breathability of the shoes to keep them flexible.
The multi-purpose spray can be used for a large number of items such as hats, coats, furniture, luggage, and car upholstery to name a few. It’s no wonder then that this spray sits at the top of the rankings of best waterproof sprays for shoes. One thing to keep in mind when using this spray is that it’s specially designed for finished leathers.
Pros:
- Multipurpose can be used on a number of materials
- Adds a protective layer while maintaining breathability
- Protects against dirt and fading
Cons:
- For the price you pay, the liquid seems insufficient
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Nikwax TX. Direct Spray-On
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Bearing the distinction of being the first outdoor company to produce non-softening waterproofing wax for leather boots, Nikwax has some of the best waterproofing products on the market. With an ability to restore DWR water-repellency and breathability of waterproof garments Nikwax TX. Direct Spray-On is an excellent option.
This versatile spray can be used on all waterproof outdoor gear. So it’s a handy item to add to your must-have camping accessories. A great feature of this spray is that it’s water-based and biodegradable, devoid of PFCs, VOCs, or smell.
Pros:
- Restores DWR water-repellency
- Revives breathability
- Devoid of PFCs, VOCs, and odor
Cons:
- Wear disposable gloves while applying the product or your hands can get quite messy
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Scotchgard Suede and Nubuck Protector
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As the name suggests, Scotchgard Suede and Nubuck Protector is the best waterproof shoe spray for suede or nubuck shoes. If you’re in an area that snows, you definitely need to add this spray to your winter stock as it protects your shoes from salt stains. Many of the shoe-sprays also double as protection for your other gear, and this one does too.
Use it on your coats, gloves, or hats so long as they’re not made from smooth leather. Once the spray dries there’s no odor. A standout feature of this spray is the waterproofing lasts for about six months.
Pros:
- Long-lasting
- Can be used on all types of colors of suede and nubuck leather
- Simple to use
- Resists salt stains
Cons:
- Has a strong odor
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Kiwi Camp Dry Heavy Duty Water Repellent
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The KIWI brand is trusted for its waterproofing products, having been around since 1906. The KIWI Camp Dry Heavy Duty Water Repellent is a testament to the superior quality of their products. What makes this the best waterproof shoe spray is the versatility. The water repellent is not just restricted to protecting shoes but other camping gear such as tents, tarps, boots, and hunting apparel. So if you’ve invested in one of the best camping tents or the best hiking shoes, you can use this spray on both.
With a heavy duty barrier that can effectively stand up to heavy downpours, your shoes and other gear are well protected with this spray.
Pros:
- A multi-purpose repellent waterproof spray
- Works well on outdoor gear too
- Odor-free
- Doesn’t discolor the material
Cons:
- Needs to be applied quite frequently for it to last
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