Rainy days are the best time to curl up in a blanket and grab a cup of hot chocolate with marshmallows. Unfortunately, some people have to work for a living, and rain does not ask for permission before pouring all over our new leather shoes. Sounds like a nightmare, right?
You show up at work, tie askew, suit drenched, and your shoes dripping water all over the floor. Rather than being concerned about the critical presentation, you have to give to your boss, all you can think is, how do I save my shoes?
Fret not; we have your back. This article will suggest ways to prevent your leather boots from getting wet and restoring them if you encounter rainfall.
Can You Wear Leather Boots in the Rain?
For a short answer, yes, you can. There are three methods to ensure your new leather shoes will not get damaged if you wear them out in the rain. Firstly, you can invest in genuine leather, which is naturally waterproof. Secondly, you can apply wax that will act as a protective barrier. Lastly, you can purchase rain boots to act as a cover for your leather shoes.
If your shoes happen to get wet, ensure that they naturally air dry and apply conditioner to prevent cracks from forming due to dehydration.
Waterproofing Leather Shoes
Your first step should be determining whether your shoes are genuine leather. The benefit of the original material is that it is naturally waterproof.
Not only will it resist cracks, but it will avoid retaining any moisture. You can expect these benefits to last for several years; hence investing in good leather is imperative.
If your shoes are not authentic leather, they will be porous and absorb moisture. Once this moisture starts to dry naturally, it will damage your shoes by leaving behind cracks. Hence, you will need to adopt the following waterproofing tricks:
Applying a Wax Layer
Before applying the wax onto your shoes, you need to ensure they are clean. You can wipe of any dust with a dry cloth or a shoe brush but do so with a gentle hand.
Scrubbing at a leather shoe can damage the outer layer. If the stains are giving you trouble, you may also use a dampened cloth to make your boots spotless.
Select a wax that not only acts as a barrier against moisture but also keeps the leather hydrated. Look for famous and reliable brands that manufacture wax and check the ingredients before purchasing. You can apply it normally using a brush or a cloth.
When applying, please see that you spread an even layer over the whole shoe so that no part remains uncovered. However, do keep in mind that using wax once will not make your shoes waterproof for a lifetime. Depending on your usage, you would probably need to reapply after every two weeks.
Not only does the wax help water to slide off them, but it also acts as a shield against scuff marks and any other damage that could occur.
Shoe Cover
Shoe covers are necessary if you live in a city where it rains or snows a lot. I could also suggest wrapping a plastic bag around your shoes, but it could cause you to slip. Do so at your own risk and only in the case of an emergency.
Covers are a more convenient solution. You only need one pair to keep in your car or locker and slip them on whenever you spot grey clouds in the sky.
These covers are waterproof and are usually made from materials like rubber or PVC. If you opt for a synthetic material, do check if it is non-toxic for the environment.
These boots are pretty long and come a little below your knees. Their shape will grip your leg so that water does not go inside them. They are also flexible enough to slide into with your shoes on. Just in case, before purchasing, do try these waterproof covers on while wearing other shoes to get an accurate size.
Rescuing Wet Leather Boots
The process of drying leather boots can be very technical, as they have a quick drying time. You may think of fast-drying as a plus point, but the leather can become dehydrated and start to crack if you are not careful.
To begin, no matter where you are, whether at work, at a relative’s place, or home, you need to remove the wet shoes immediately. This helps to ensure that your wet feet and socks do not impede the drying process. Place a newspaper inside them, so they retain their shape while they dry.
Also, do not try to dry them with a heater or hairdryer, as that can lead to cracks. Similarly, do not directly place them in the sun; instead, allow them to air dry. The proper way to let your shoes dry is to put them on their sides, so all the moisture seeps out.
Think of leather like your own skin. When you wash your face, you follow by lotion or cream to restore moisture. In the same manner, you will apply a conditioner to your boots. Before the application, remove the laces. You will only require a dime-sized amount of conditioner that you can work into your shoes with a cotton cloth. Do ensure that you cover all of the outer skin.
What are Factors one Should Keep in Mind to Protect Leather Boots?
Not to state the obvious, but if it is raining too hard, opt for wearing some other pair of shoes that can withstand the rainfall. You can also place your shoes inside a bag and change them out if wearing formal boots is necessary.
You can also invest in a high-quality polish for an added layer of protection along with applying wax. Polishing can also be done once or twice a month.
It would help if you were careful about where you are storing your boots as well. Please do not leave them out in the open to be damaged by natural particulate matter.