Impregnating shoes: important protection against moisture and dirt

If shoes get wet more often, their breathability decreases over time – this is especially true for sensitive materials such as leather, as 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 they are worn for the first time (but also at regular intervals afterwards), you protect the treads from moisture and dirt. But which products are best suited for this and how do you use them correctly? We’ll tell you.

Impregnating new shoes: These methods exist

Most of them use a classic waterproofing spray to protect their shoes. But there are also other products that achieve the same effect. You can find out what these are and how to use them below.

1. Impregnation spray
This is the most common product for impregnating shoes. Most sprays are suitable for textiles, leather and high-tech fabrics – but you should always take a look at the packaging before buying. The type of application may differ depending on the manufacturer, so you should always read the fine print. Basically one should always be suitable for shoes made of suede (i.e. suede and nubuck leather) or synthetic. And this is how the product is used: Spray the shoes with a safety distance of at least 30 centimeters all around. Let the product soak in briefly, repeat the process (if recommended by the manufacturer) and wait 24 hours before wearing it 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 a or one use for outdoor and hiking shoes. Both products have a nourishing and protective function. Smooth leather, in particular, can be treated well with a wax or a cream, as the contents must be worked into the surface of the shoes with a clean cloth. If possible, remove the shoelaces beforehand in order to impregnate the entire surface. You should then wait at least 24 hours here 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 applies to the use of an impregnation spray.

Another note: If you want to impregnate so-called Gore-Tex shoes, you should not use any oily or highly greasy care products such as shoe wax – as this would impair the functionality of the membrane. The classic waterproofing spray is the better choice here, as it does not clog the pores. There are even special ones for cycling shoes (and clothing) that you can use.

Why worn shoes are impregnated

Unfortunately, when you impregnate new shoes, it is far from over: By wearing them, the kicks are exposed to all weather conditions – and sooner or later lose their protection. In order to maintain this permanently, especially sensitive leather, sports and outdoor shoes made of suede and suede (smooth leather is a little less susceptible to moisture and dirt) should be treated regularly: But before you start with the actual dried-on dust and dirt residues must be removed. It is best to use a suitable shoe brush for this. The next steps were explained in the previous paragraph.

Impregnating shoes: when and how often?

After the first impregnation, your shoes should be treated at regular intervals. How often, exactly, depends on the respective materials. Basically, however, you can assume that the protection against dirt and moisture will wear off 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 soaked with water, it is time to re-impregnate with the appropriate spray, cream or wax.

This article contains so-called affiliate links. Further information are available here.