Leather is known for its durability, and it is a particularly popular material for quality boots and shoes. But too much water can be hazardous to your leather. Because leather is a porous material, it will quickly soak in that water. This rapid influx of water, followed by a release when the water dries, can lead to premature damage and cracking of the leather. Letting your shoes get soaked in the rain is no way to take care of your investment.
But, life happens, and sometimes you are going to get caught in the rain while wearing your favorite leather boots or shoes. So how can you protect your leather shoes in the rain? Here are some tips.
4 Tips for Protecting Your Leather Shoes From Rain
1. Weatherproofing Is Not Forever
New shoes are often coated with a layer of wax that provides a water barrier. Over time, that layer breaks down, so you can’t trust the waterproofing from the factory as long-term protection for your shoes. It’s important to remember that the weatherproofing your shoes came with is not going to last forever.
If you are caught in the rain regularly, consider investing in a waterproof cover for your leather shoes. A pair of shoe covers or galoshes stashed in your car can provide immediate protection if an unexpected rainstorm occurs. This will prevent any potential exposure to damaging water on your valuable shoes or boots.
2. Dry Leather Shoes Quickly and Thoroughly
If you do end up getting your leather shoes soaked in the rain, allow the shoes or boots to dry thoroughly. Before setting them to dry, however, make sure you protect the shape to ensure they fit properly when you put them on again later.
Take off your shoes and put a shoe tree or some newspaper inside them to help hold the shape. Then, lay your shoes on their sides to allow them to dry properly, including the soles. Do not lay them next to a heat source, like a furnace vent, though. This can cause them to dry out too quickly, which can lead to damage.
3. Add a Water-Repellent Barrier
You can add a water-repellent barrier of your own to protect your leather shoes in the rain. Leather Honey Leather Conditioner’s primary job is to condition your leather, but as a bonus it adds a water-repellent barrier that is a measure of protection against rain damage. Conditioning leather with Leather Honey Leather Conditioner is another step you can take to protect your shoes from rain. Remember that you don't want to apply a waterproofing product. Leather is skin and it needs to breathe. Sure, a waterproofing product will protect your leather shoes in the rain, but it can ruin the leather. A waterproofing product will seal the leather, which will eventually lead to it deteriorating.
4. Clean and Condition Leather Boots & Shoes
Regular cleaning of your leather boots and shoes will remove grit, debris, and even salt kicked up by walking through the rain. Use Leather Honey Leather Cleaner followed by Leather Honey Leather Conditioner every six months to help clean leather bootsand condition them. These steps will help protect your leather shoes from the rain for another few months.
More to Know About Protecting Leather Shoes in The Rain
Some common questions people have about how to protect leather shoes from rain damage.
What to do if leather shoes get wet in the rain?
If your leather shoes get wet in the rain, allow them to air dry completely. Then, use Leathey Honey Leather Conditioner to restore their moisture.
How do you protect leather from rain?
You can protect leather from rain by conditioning them regularly. This will add a protective layer against water damage.
Is leather waterproof?
Leather is not waterproof. It is water resistant, which means eventually, if your leather gets wet enough, water will seep into the shoe.
