It’s raining, it’s pouring, and your tennis shoes are soaked. What do you do? You waterproof them, of course! Here are three methods for doing just that.
In this article, we will discuss how to waterproof tennis shoes in various ways. Keep reading the article to find out more!
How to Waterproof Tennis Shoes
There are different ways to waterproof tennis shoes. Here are some of them:
Before you begin…
Well, if the shoes are not clean, you should start by giving them a good wash. If they are clean, then you can proceed to the next step. However, be aware of the fact that some materials (like suede) can’t get wet, so you might want to avoid those.
You might also consider professional shoe cleaner services before waterproofing your shoes.
How to Waterproof Tennis Shoes Using a Waterproofer
The most common way of waterproofing tennis shoes is using a spray-on waterproofer that you will find in any shoe store or online. There are plenty of waterproofing sprays to choose from – they are usually scented, but if you don’t like the scent, there are unscented ones too.
- To begin with, lay newspaper on the floor in order to protect it from possible damage. (It’s better to do it the outside or in a well-ventilated room).
- Shake or stir the waterproofer well in order to mix the ingredients before spraying it onto your tennis shoes.
- Be sure to cover the entire shoe, especially the seams and stitching. Don’t spray inside the shoe. Let it dry for about an hour before wearing them outdoors.
How to Waterproof Tennis Shoes Using A Silicone Spray
The next waterproofing technique is using a silicone spray to protect the shoes. There are many benefits of using a silicone spray. First, it is very easy to apply and does not require any special skills or knowledge.
Second, it provides a good level of waterproofing protection against both water and stains. Third, it is relatively inexpensive and can be found at most hardware stores. Finally, it is non-toxic and leaves a nice shine on the shoes which can help to improve their appearance.
To apply a silicone spray, first clean the shoes. Then, apply a generous amount of silicone spray to the outside of the shoes, making sure to cover all areas evenly. Allow the shoes to dry for a few hours before wearing them.
How to Waterproof Tennis Shoes with Wax
Another way to waterproof tennis shoes is using wax. This will make the shoes waterproof and also add a bit of extra protection. You can buy a can of shoe wax from most stores that sell shoe supplies. Make sure to purchase the one that arrives with waterproofing property.
Beeswax is an excellent alternative to store-bought shoe wax. If you can get your hands on some, it will do the trick just as well!
To waterproof your tennis shoes with wax, start by ensuring they are clean and dry. Apply a thin layer of wax to the outside of the shoe, using a brush or your fingers to work it in.
Be sure to get into all of the nooks and crannies, paying special attention to the stitching. Once the shoes are evenly coated, let them sit for a while so the wax can harden.
Your newly waterproofed shoes will be good to go the next time you hit the court!
FAQs
Which Option is the Best?
The best method of waterproofing tennis shoes depends on how often the person uses the shoes and for what purpose.
For example, if you work in construction, you would want to use a silicone spray. On the other hand, if you only use your tennis shoes occasionally when it rains or snows, then using a waterproofer is the right choice.
Do waterproofing shoes really work?
Yes, it does! The outer covering of your shoes is made of leather or fabric. These are porous in nature, meaning they can easily absorb liquid. When you apply a waterproofer to the exterior of the shoe, it forms a protective barrier over them so that water cannot seep through them easily when it rains.
How long do waterproof sprays last?
A waterproof spray’s ability to keep your tennis shoes dry will last for about 24 hours. Afterwards, the shoes should be re-treated with a waterproofer or an additional coat of wax and so on and so forth.
Can I use WD-40 instead of a waterproofer?
Yes, you can! The formulation used in both products is basically the same, but WD-40 also has a lubricant to prevent squeaking. Because of this effect, you should not use WD-40 in your shoes.
How Do I Know If My Tennis Shoes Are Waterproof?
You’ll know if they are waterproof if you don’t see any water being absorbed by the shoes. The excess water should run off the shoes. If you’ll walk in a puddle, any water that comes into contact with your shoes should roll right off them.
If your tennis shoes are made of PVC, they are not waterproof!
Is it Better to Buy Waterproof Tennis Shoes Instead?
It is better to buy waterproof tennis shoes instead of trying these methods.
Most of the time, you will find that water-resistant sneakers and shoes are the best choices for those who want or need to walk on wet surfaces, especially during rainy seasons.
It is almost impossible to find a regular shoe that is 100% waterproof, but there are those that are water-resistant.
How Often You Should Waterproof the Tennis Shoes?
You should waterproof the shoes every 3 months or so.
This is to ensure that your tennis shoes will be protected no matter the weather conditions. If they are not, then it might cause damage to your feet and ankles because of water seeping into them.
What Else Should I Know about Waterproofing Tennis Shoes?
Wipe your shoes with a dry towel after wearing them.
This will ensure that dirt and other outdoor particles don’t get stuck on your shoes, which might affect the waterproofing properties of the spray or wax you applied earlier.
Do not forget to keep your tennis shoes away from heat because it can damage their materials.
Also, avoid contact with oil-based chemicals.
How Long Does it Take for Tennis Shoes to Be Fully Dry After Waterproofing?
It usually takes 2-3 hours for the shoes to be dry before wearing them.
The excess water should run off your footwear, but you still need ample time to make sure that everything is dry and there will not be any seeping or absorption of water when out walking in it or wearing them.
Conclusion
Waterproofing your tennis shoes is important to make sure that you, your feet and your ankles will remain dry no matter the weather conditions. There are three methods to choose from. It depends on how often you use them and for what purpose.
If you need to use your shoes during heavy rainfall or when walking through puddles of water, use a waterproof spray. This is the best method to use if you are an avid tennis player or if you work in conditions with wet surfaces.
If you only play or wear your tennis shoes occasionally when it rains or snows, then using a waterproofer is the right choice. The wax might also be used, but this may affect how long the shoes last.