How to Waterproof Boots for Winter, Step by Step

Last updated November 9, 2026

To waterproof boots, clean them well and choose a treatment made for your boot material. Apply it while the boots are still damp. Let them dry slowly at room temperature, away from heaters or fireplaces.

Retreat your boots whenever water stops beading on the surface. This guide covers leather, suede and fabric boots and the right product for each. It also shows how to keep your feet dry all winter.

Key Takeaways

• Most new hiking boots already have a water-repellent finish.
• Retreat boots when water soaks in instead of beading up.
• Clean boots first, since dirt blocks the treatment.
• Match the product to the material, such as smooth leather, suede or fabric.
• Dry boots slowly at room temperature, never next to a heater.

Inside this guide

• When to waterproof
• Know your boot material
• Step 1, clean the boots
• Step 2, apply the treatment
• Step 3, dry them the right way
• Choosing a product
• Winter boot care
• Storing boots
• Frequently asked questions

When Should You Waterproof Boots?

Most hiking and winter boots come from the factory with a durable water-repellent finish. New boots usually do not need treatment right away.

According to REI, it is time to retreat when water no longer beads up and rolls off. Instead, it soaks into the outer layer and darkens the material.

• Water darkens the boot instead of beading.
• Your socks feel damp after walking through wet grass or slush.
• Leather looks dry, pale or starts to crack.
• It has been a full season of heavy use.

Waterproof vs. Water-Resistant

These two terms sound alike, but they mean different things. Water-resistant boots shed light rain and snow for a while, but water can soak through over time.

Waterproof boots usually have a built-in membrane or sealed construction that blocks water from getting in. They can still lose their outer finish, which makes them feel heavy and cold when wet.

Treatments add water repellency to the outer surface. They cannot turn a canvas sneaker into a true snow boot.

Know Your Boot Material

The right treatment depends on your boot material. Using the wrong product can stain or stiffen them.

Many boots mix materials, such as leather with fabric panels. Choose a product labeled safe for all the materials on your boots.

Step 1. Clean the Boots

Treatments only stick to clean surfaces. Dirt and salt also wear down leather and fabric over time.

1. Remove the laces and insoles.
2. Brush off dried mud with a stiff brush.
3. Rinse the boots under running water.
4. Scrub with a boot cleaner or a little mild soap.
5. Rinse again until the water runs clear.

REI notes that most treatments work best on clean, damp boots. If your boots dried after cleaning, wrap them in a wet towel for a couple of hours.

Wash fabric laces in warm, soapy water and let the insoles air dry on their own. Fresh laces and dry insoles help your boots last longer and smell much better.

Step 2. Apply the Treatment

For smooth leather

Work a leather cream or lotion into the damp boots with a soft cloth or your fingers. Pay extra attention to seams and the area where the upper meets the sole.

Wax-based products give strong protection but can darken leather. REI also warns that wax residue can make it harder to glue on a new sole later.

For suede and nubuck

Spray an even coat from about 6 inches away. Do not soak the surface, and brush the nap gently once dry.

For fabric and synthetic boots

Spray a water repellent evenly over the fabric, including seams and tongue gussets. Wipe off any extra with a clean cloth.

Always read the product label. Steps and drying times vary from brand to brand.

Step 3. Dry Them the Right Way

Many people ruin good boots during drying. Heat can crack leather, weaken glue and shrink materials.

• Dry boots at normal room temperature in a low-humidity spot.
• Stuff them with newspaper and replace it when it gets damp.
• Use a fan to speed things up.
• Keep them away from radiators, heaters, fireplaces and campfires.

Expect drying to take a day or more. Be patient, since slow drying protects your boots.

Choosing a Waterproofing Product

Look for water-based products that are free of harsh solvents. They are easier on materials and safer to use indoors.

Already seeing white marks? Learn how to remove salt stains from shoes and boots.

Winter Boot Care

Snow, slush and road salt are tough on boots. A little care after each outing goes a long way.

• Wipe off salt and slush as soon as you come inside.
• Rinse salt stains with a cloth dipped in a mix of water and a little white vinegar.
• Let wet boots dry overnight before wearing them again.
• Rotate between two pairs if you wear boots every day.
• Recondition leather every few weeks in heavy use.

Dry feet are warm feet. Wet socks raise the risk of cold injuries, so learn the warning signs of frostbite and hypothermia.

Socks and Layers Matter Too

Even waterproof boots can feel wet inside if your feet sweat. Wear wool or synthetic socks that pull moisture away from your skin.

Skip cotton socks, which hold sweat and stay damp. Read our guide on how to layer clothes for cold weather for more tips.

Gaiters help on snowy trails. They stop snow from slipping in over the top of your boots.

Fixing Small Leaks

Sometimes water sneaks in even after treatment. Look closely to find where it enters.

• Check seams and stitching for gaps.
• Look for cracks where the boot flexes near the toes.
• Inspect the line where the upper meets the sole.
• Feel inside for damp spots after a short walk in wet grass.

A seam sealer made for footwear can fix small gaps along stitching. For a separating sole or a large crack, take the boots to a shoe repair shop.

Boots for Kids

Kids splash through every puddle, so their boots need extra care. A quick spray of water repellent before winter helps a lot.

Check the fit each season, since growing feet can outgrow boots fast. Tight boots cut off circulation and make toes colder.

When to Replace Your Boots

• The soles are worn smooth and lose grip.
• The leather has deep cracks that keep leaking.
• The inner lining is torn or falling apart.
• Your feet hurt or feel unstable after short walks.

Good boots can last many seasons with care. When they stop protecting you, it is time for a new pair.

Common Waterproofing Mistakes

• Treating dirty boots
• Using a leather wax on suede
• Drying boots next to a heater or fire
• Applying too much product at once
• Waiting until boots leak badly before retreating

How to Store Boots

REI advises storing boots in a place with stable, normal temperatures. Avoid attics, garages, car trunks and damp basements.

• Clean and dry boots fully before storing them.
• Loosen the laces and stuff the toes with paper.
• Keep them out of direct sunlight.
• Store them upright, not crushed under other gear.

Storing outerwear too? See how to wash a down jacket before you pack it away.

Get Outside With Dry Feet

Well-treated boots make winter more fun. Try a snowy trail with our winter hiking tips for beginners, or try snowshoeing for beginners.

Clearing the driveway? Good boots with solid grip help, and our guide on how to shovel snow safely covers the rest.

Traveling somewhere cold? Add a small tube of boot treatment to your winter packing list.

Your Boot Waterproofing Checklist

• Test with a few drops of water
• Clean off dirt and salt
• Match the product to the material
• Apply to damp boots
• Dry slowly at room temperature
• Store in a cool, dry place

Test Yourself

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I waterproof boots?

Whenever water stops beading, often once or twice a season.

Can I waterproof suede boots?

Yes. Use a spray made for suede and nubuck.

Does waterproofing make boots fully waterproof?

It helps shed water, but leaks at seams or worn spots can still happen.

Can I use a hair dryer to dry boots?

It is better not to. Heat can damage leather and glue.

Conclusion

Waterproofing boots is simple. Clean them, pick a product for the material, apply it to damp boots and let them dry slowly.

Check them often during winter, wipe off salt and enjoy warm, dry feet all season.

Editor’s Note

This guide is accurate as of November 9, 2026. It draws on boot care advice from REI.

Always follow the care label and product directions for your own boots.

Spot an error in this article? Please contact us at support@digieh.com or read our Corrections Policy.

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