Leather Hiking

Leather Hiking

What is the best way to waterproof my hiking boots?

They're leather with some nylon bits, and I'd like to be able to ford the occasional shallow stream. Is it possible to make the solid parts fairly waterproof? How?

Go to any outdoors retail store such as Academy or even Wallmart sporting goods section. Look for a product with OIL based silicone, not WATER based silicone for your boots. The best protection would be an oil based silicone that you rub into the material. How much protection you want to apply to your leather is up to you. Items that will be used outdoors frequently in damp or wet conditions should be treated with maximum protection. Boots and shoes worn during cold winter months, most often benefit from heavy oils, waxes and dressings.

Heavy duty dressings and waterproofing oils and waxes are sold as brush-on or rub-on products. They are usually oil based and combine tanning agents (to help extend the life of your leather) with waterproofing agents (that bond to the material). This type of waterproofing works well on products containing mixed ingredients (nylon and leather), heavy work and hiking boots.

Sprays are a bit more convenient than dressings and take significantly less time to apply. Oil based silicone spray is perfect for boots, shoes, jackets, mittens and other garments. Water based silicone spray can be used on more delicate leathers, like suede and nubuck, car seats, office furniture, briefcases and thin garments. Because silicone does change the texture of the leather, you may not appreciate the slippery quality on your favorite baseball glove.

No matter what type of treatment you use, you will need to reapply it from time to time. All forms of waterproofing rub off eventually, leaving your leather unprotected. Outdoor leathers should be treated four times per year. Most other items need only be treated twice a year.

Leather Hiking

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