How to Waterproof Running Shoes

Running in squishy, wet shoes can cause blisters and damage shoes. Some running shoes are made with a waterproof coating that help keep feet dry. Owners of untreated running shoes or shoes whose protective coating has worn off will want to waterproof them, to extend the life of the shoes and to make running in them more comfortable.

Things You'll Need

• Scrub brush
• Shoe cleaning gel or spray
• Soft cloth
• Newspaper or drop cloth
• Waterproofing spray

Instructions

1. Remove dust and dirt particles with the scrub brush by moving the brush briskly back and forth across the surface of the shoes.

2. Coat deeply soiled shoes with shoe cleaner and let them soak for five minutes. Wipe the cleaner off by rubbing in a small circular motion with the soft wiping cloth. Allow them to dry completely before proceeding. This step can be omitted for new or lightly soiled shoes, but for maximum adherence and overall best results, waterproofing product should be applied to clean, dry shoes.

3. Spread the newspapers or drop cloth on a flat surface. Hold each shoe above the paper and pull the tongue of the shoe so it sticks up; if you don't, the tongue will get very little waterproofing protection. Spray the tongues and place the shoes on the protected surface.

4. Hold the can of waterproofing spray 8 inches away from the shoes and spray them with in a continuous motion. Pay extra attention to seams and the edge where the sole meets the body of the shoe because these are the places that are the most likely to leak. Let the shoes dry completely and repeat for maximum water protection.

Tips & Warnings

• Semi-hard wax products are effective at waterproofing, and some users find their protection to be more durable and worth the more work-intensive application. Wax waterproofing products are applied by hand with a soft cloth.

• Follow the instructions on the label of any waterproofing spray regarding proper ventilation and other safety concerns.

• Always read product labels for warnings and information about specific uses. Some waterproofing products are unsuitable for particular leathers and other materials.

References

• Cleaners & Waterproofers

Resources

• Product Example - Waterproofing Wax
• Product Example - Waterproofing Spray