Want to protect your favorite sneakers from rain, dirt and stains? With the right waterproofing spray you can make sneakers water-repellent and keep them looking like new for longer. Here you’ll learn what to use, how to apply it safely for each material, and how often to reapply. Always start by cleaning for maximum adhesion. First, check our sneaker cleaning guide. Use a suitable sneaker cleaner and only then apply a sneaker protector.
Why waterproof your sneakers?
Waterproofing adds an invisible, water- and dirt-repellent layer to your sneakers. Raindrops and mud splashes bead off the surface and oil or salt stains are less likely to penetrate. That saves cleaning time, helps prevent color fading, and extends the lifespan of leather, suede, nubuck, mesh and canvas. Light or white sneakers benefit most, because embedded stains show up quicker. Choose a spray that maintains breathability so your sneakers stay comfortable.
Waterproofing sneakers - step by step
- 1. Clean - Remove loose mud and dust with a soft brush. Then clean the upper and sole with a sneaker cleaner or a sneaker cleaning kit. Let dry completely.
- 2. Prep - Take out the laces and cover logos or sensitive parts if needed. Always patch-test the spray on an inconspicuous area first.
- 3. Ventilation and distance - Work in a well-ventilated area. Shake the can and spray from 20–30 cm to avoid wet spots.
- 4. Thin, even coats - Apply 2 thin coats with a sneaker protective spray, allowing a few minutes between coats. For suede/nubuck, 2–3 thin coats are ideal.
- 5. Material aftercare - After drying, lightly brush up suede/nubuck for an even nap. Gently buff smooth leather with a clean cloth if desired. For suede preparation, see our cleaning suede sneakers.
- 6. Cure - Let cure for 12–24 hours before wearing or cleaning. Avoid heat sources.
Which spray should you use for your material?
Always choose a sneaker protector that matches the upper material. PFC-free, water-based sprays are a good, more eco-friendly option. Avoid products that darken the material if you want to preserve the original color.
| Material | Recommended protector | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Smooth leather | Fluoropolymer or PFC-free water-repellent spray | Thin coats; preserves shine and breathability |
| Suede and nubuck | Dedicated suede/nubuck spray | Do not soak; lightly brush up after drying |
| Mesh and canvas | Breathable textile protector | Several thin coats for optimal beading |
| Synthetic uppers | General sneaker protector | Test first for possible gloss or color change |
How often should you spray sneakers?
Waterproof new sneakers right away and repeat periodically. With frequent wear, every 2–4 weeks is a good rule of thumb. If you wear them less intensively, once every 6–8 weeks is enough. Always reapply after a thorough clean or a day of heavy rain. Do the droplet test: place a drop of water on the material. If it beads nicely, protection is active. If it soaks in or leaves a dark spot, it’s time to reapply.
Frequently asked questions about waterproofing sneakers
What should you spray sneakers with?
Use a waterproofing spray or sneaker protector that suits your material, preferably PFC-free and breathable. Choose a dedicated spray for suede/nubuck; for leather use a general water-repellent spray.
Is waterproofing shoes worth it?
Yes. Waterproofing makes your sneakers water- and dirt-repellent, helps prevent stains, preserves color and texture, and extends their lifespan. It also saves a lot of cleaning time.
How do you make sneakers waterproof?
Breathable sneakers rarely become fully waterproof, but 2–3 thin coats of waterproofing spray will make them highly water-repellent. For extreme conditions, overshoes or truly waterproof models are more suitable.
You can find everything for maintenance and protection in our sneaker care collection.
This article was written by Marijn van der Heijden.
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