Outdoor Blog
How to Waterproof Hiking Boots

Hiking boots are the most important piece of equipment for any hiker or backpacker, simply put, you rely on them to get you where you’re going. Just like regular cleaning, hiking boot maintenance also means replacing the DWR. Almost all new hiking boots are factory-treated with a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) finish, so they rarely need waterproofing treatment straight from the box. However, eventually this finish will wear off and the boots will become less and less waterproof, so you can update the coating in order to keep your boots in the best possible condition, and to keep your feet dry.
Once the water stops beading and rolling off your boots, and absorbs into the material instead, you’ll know you need to revamp the waterproof coating. It’s a fairly easy task, and well worth it to keep your feet dry and happy. Wet feet are not only incredibly uncomfortable but also contribute to blisters and can actually be very dangerous in cold weather. Waterproofing your boots is just a 20-minute task, and will keep your feet dry and your boots in great shape.
Ideally, a waterproof pair of hiking boots would stay that way throughout their lifetime, however, with the wear and tear of hiking, the coating will deteriorate sooner or later. The more miles you put into your boots, the sooner you’ll need to replace the coating. If you want to keep your feet dry and help your boots last, waterproofing is a must. The process of waterproofing is usually very easy, so don’t worry, you aren’t adding a huge task to your to-do list. Instead, most of these treatments take less than 20 minutes from start to finish, so there’s no excuse not to keep your feet dry.

Waterproofing your boots will ensure that your feet stay dry while out on the trail.
Why waterproof your hiking boots?
- Dry feet help prevent blisters, every hiker’s worst enemy. Keeping your feet dry is the most obvious reason, you’ll be much more comfortable on the trail.
- It makes gore-tex liners work better. Many boots are equipped with a gore-tex membrane, which helps wick moisture (sweat) away from your feet and out of the boot, so we waterproofing will actually improve the effectiveness of this feature.
- Waterproofing will help significantly extend the life of your boots, just like cleaning and drying them after hikes, proper maintenance of your boots will make them last you much longer.
There are many products to choose from for waterproofing hiking boots, each for different boot materials. Before buying a waterproofing treatment, check your boots’ materials, so you can get the right product.
Leather boots, also called full-grain leather boots, appear smooth and shiny when new. Leather is actually naturally waterproof, and some full-grain leather hiking boots also have a breathable waterproof membrane to improve it further. Nubuck leather looks similar to suede, it has a brushed effect from being buffered down. This makes if thinner and less durable than full-grain leather, and also lessens the waterproof properties. A good example of these boots are Timberlands, which are some of the most well-known hiking boots in the industry.
Because of this, many unbuckle leather boots also have a breathable waterproof membrane. Synthetic hiking boots are any pair that isn’t made of leather. They’re made from a large range of non-natural fabrics, varying from brand to brand. It’s important to note that synthetic boots are not always waterproof, but the presence of gore-tex and a DWR coating helps make the fabric both waterproof and breathable.
Different waterproofing treatments
Most waterproofing treatments are made for full grain or unbuckle leather. Wax-based treatments used to be popular, but nowadays you should avoid them if you want to be able to re-sole your boots, as they can have a negative effect on the adhesive used in this process. Many people think that Gore-tex never needs waterproofing, but just like the rest of the boot, eventually, wear and tear will lessen its effectiveness. Gore-tex will deteriorate over time, but using a waterproofing treatment on it can help revitalize the material.

If you waterproof your boots properly, you’ll be able to hike in the rain and even through the snow.
How to waterproof your hiking boots
Step 1: Preparation
Waterproofing products work best on clean, damp boots. You don’t want any dirt to get in the way of full coverage and penetration of the materials, and the water on the exterior layer of your boots (making it damp) will help draw in the chemicals from the treatment. It’s essential that your boots are as clean as possible before treating them, to make the process as effective as possible.
- Gently clean off the dirt and mud with a soft brush
- Remove the laces
- Wash your boots using a mild detergent or boot cleaner
- Soak your boots in water (but not nubuck leather, this will stain and over-soften them, and the same goes for suede boots)
- Rinse the boots off
- Towel dry
Step 2: Applying a waterproofing treatment
For leather hiking boots:
Lots of full-grain leather boots actually don’t have a waterproof membrane, so they rely heavily on leathers natural waterproof qualities. However, after a little use, leather has a tendency of becoming a bit leaky. Applying waterproofing treatment before this happens will keep your boots in better condition for longer.
Once your boots are clean and prepared, start waterproofing straight away, while they’re still wet. Just running water over them isn’t sufficient, the water must be fully soaked into the leather, which takes some time. If they seem too dry, wrap your boots up in a very wet towel and leave for a few hours in the sink. Having the boots being fully soaked allows the treatment to fully settle into the leather, making it much more effective.
Here are a few waterproofing product options for leather hiking boots:
Atsko Sno-Seal Original Beeswax Waterproofing
[amazon box=”B00O9OA01W”]
- Wax is great for conditioning boots as it works without softening the leather
- You should never use wax on Gore-tex as it can affect its breathability
- This method is a little more time consuming than other more convenient products like sprays
- This wax is great at maintaining flexibility and waterproofing in freezing temperatures
- To use the wax, soften it first by heating it, you could use a hairdryer or another heat source
- Work it into the clean, wet leather of your boots with a cloth
- We recommend wearing rubber gloves
- Repeat this process
- Leave to dry fully before your next hike, with your newly waterproof boots
Obenauf’s LP Boot Preservative
[amazon box=”B0002X520S”]
- This wax is good for both leather and synthetic materials
- It makes your boots look great, and has great water repelling properties
- One application is enough for most needs, but two coatings will provide an amazing barrier between your boots and whatever the world throws at them
- At room temperature, apply the wax by hand as your body temperature will help the wax melt into the leather
- If you’re doing two applications, allow an hour between treatments
- Once it’s dry, buff smooth leather with a clean cloth, for extra shine
Nikwax Waterproofing Wax Liquid for Leather
[amazon box=”B07J9ZJG9H”]
- This product is water-based, biodegradable, and free of fluorocarbons and VOCs
- It works the same way as wax, but actually absorbs into the leather faster
- To apply this Nikwax product, use the sponge applicator on clean, wet leather
- Leave to set for a couple of minutes
- Wipe off the excess, and buff with a clean cloth
- Make sure to leave your boots to dry fully before their next use
For nubuck hiking boots:
Hiking boots made with nubuck leather require a little more care and attention than those made with full-grain leather. Using wax on these boots would ruin their sort, brushed finish, and could even stain them, so make sure you use a treatment specially designed for nubuck.
Clean your boots thoroughly, but be very careful not to soak them in water. However, most waterproofing treatments for nubuck do require boots to be damp, to encourage the uptake of your chosen product. Just make sure to check the instructions of the product of your choice before beginning.
Here are a few waterproofing product options for nubuck and suede hiking boots:
Gear Aid Revivex Suede Protector
[amazon box=”B000XYWLE6″]
- This spray can actually be used on hiking boots of any material, including Gore-tex
- It maximizes the breathability of your shoes to keep your feet dry and fresh
- This waterproofer comes in a spray bottle, so it’s really easy to apply
- You should first test this spray on an inconspicuous area, to make sure it won’t stain your boots
- Apply to dry footwear in this case, not damp
- Once your boots have been cleaned, allow them to dry
- Then saturate your hiking boots with the spray, on all surfaces
- After 5 minutes, use a clean cloth to wipe away the excess
- For even more effective waterproofing, leave your boots to dry overnight and then apply a second coat
Scotchgard Suede and Nubuck Protector
[amazon box=”B0083GNLHC”]
- This spray-on treatment will add a layer of waterproofing to your nubuck or suede boots, without altering their appearance
- You should still test it on a small section, just to be on the safe side
- During application, spray liberally onto clean, dry nubuck from about 15cm away from the shoe
- Leave this coat to dry, then proceed with another application
- After doing two treatments, leave to dry completely before use
For fabric or synthetic hiking boots
Most hiking boots made from synthetic materials hold very few natural waterproofing properties. They rely heavily on having a built-in waterproof membrane, as well as a DWR coating to repel water from the surface of the boot. Its also important to note, because of all the seams in the boot, which are a weak point when it comes to water penetrating your hiking shoe, you should also know how to waterproof Gore-tex boots.
Just like with leather boots, the majority of treatments for synthetic boots require the shoes to be wet beforehand, but always check the instructions first.
Here are a few waterproofing product options for synthetic hiking boots:
Nikwax Fabric and Leather Proof
[amazon box=”B07KRZ59TB”]
- This Nixwax treatment can actually be used on both leather and synthetic shoes, making is a great choice for boots which combine the two
- It works by coating the individual fibers that make up either the fabric or leather
- To achieve this, this spray uses a DWR treatment that is both flexible and maintains breathability
- In order to apply this waterproofing treatment, start by spraying onto clean, wet boots from just 5cm away
- Leave to dry for a couple of minutes before wiping away any excess
- Then, leave your pair to dry fully before their next use
Gear Aid ReviveX Nubuck Suede and Fabric Waterproofing
[amazon box=”B000XYWLE6″]
- This treatment is a great option if your boots are made from several different materials, including having a membrane made from Gore-tex
- Gore-tex membranes provide waterproof protection for your feet while keeping your boots breathable
- This treatment adds a DWR coating to the surface of your boots, so they can actually repel water
- To apply, spray on to clean and damp boots
- Leave for about 5 minutes, then use a cloth to wipe away the excess
- Then simply leave to dry fully before your next hiking trip

Hiking boots come in all shapes and sizes but it’s how you care for them that really matters.
Drying your hiking boots after treatment
Because wet leather is neither supportive nor breathable, you need to have dry boots before you set off. For some waterproofing product, drying is the final step to complete the process, solidifying your new DWR layer.
- It’s best to dry your boots at a normal temperature, in a place where there’s not much humidity.
- Don’t be tempted to use a heat source to dry, and this includes the sun.
- External heat can damage the glue which holds your boots together.
- If you want to speed up the drying, use a fan.
- You could also stuff your boots with pieces of newspaper. If you do, change it regularly to help them dry as well as possible.
- You can put out the insoles from your shoe and allow them to dry separately, this will help your boots dry faster.
Conditioning your hiking boots
If you have leather hiking boots, a leather conditioner will help keep your boots supple, and in good condition. It’s important to use these treatments sparingly though, as walking boots aren’t designed to be too soft, or else they will lose their supportiveness. You should only condition your hiking boots when you see the leather beginning to dry out and crack, certainly not every time you wear them.
Leather conditioning works best when boots are slightly damp, as this will help the product to absorb better. As the water on the boots evaporates, it will actually pull the conditioner deep into the leather’s pores.
- Work a very small amount of conditioner into the leather on your boots, using either your fingers or a clean cloth
- Include the welts and seams, all areas can benefit from conditioning
- Let the boots sit at room temperature for a few minutes, then remove any excess conditioner with a cloth
- Allow the boots to dry naturally, without applying them to a heat source
How to store your hiking boots
You should store your hiking boots in a place where temperatures are stable, and ventilation is regular. Don’t store them in attics, garages, or car trunks, all of these places can be damp, hot, and unventilated, which is not good for your shoes. Follow these storage guidelines to help extend the lifetime of your boots, they should last you much longer this way.
Final Verdict:
Waterproofing your boots is an important part of gear care and maintenance. The most convenient way to waterproof your hiking boots is using a spray, however, if you’ve got the time it’s worth putting the effort into waxing your boots. However before doing this, check that wax, and not spray or cream is the ideal choice for you.
Having properly waterproofed boots is vital to staying safe and comfortable on hiking trips. Keeping your feet dry will mean you can enjoy nature without worrying about squelching in puddles, and with less fear of blisters too. Because applying waterproofing treatments to your boots also helps prolong their working lives, there’s really no reason to add waterproofing to your gear maintenance schedule.
If you follow all the steps laid out in this article, your boots should take you the extra mile, and keep your feet happy, safe, and most importantly, dry! If you’re unsure about your next camping destination, read here about where to go for the best hiking in Washington State. Known for being a rainy place, your newly waterproofed boots should come in handy. We recommend Deception Pass State Park, where you can hike miles off trails along lakes and beaches, and where it’s possible to spot orcas and other amazing wildlife.
Outdoor Blog
Living Life on the Edge: Embracing Adrenaline-Fueled Moments

Life is an adventure, a journey filled with countless opportunities for thrill and excitement. For some, the idea of living life on the edge, embracing adrenaline-fueled moments, is an exhilarating concept that fuels their passion for adventure. This article delves into the world of adrenaline-chasing, highlighting the benefits and experiences of such a lifestyle.
Kitesurfing: Riding the waves of excitement
The first step to living on the edge is stepping out of your comfort zone and trying something new. Kitesurfing, a water sport combining wakeboarding, windsurfing, and paragliding elements, is an excellent example of an adrenaline-fueled activity. The activity entails utilizing a sizable maneuverable kite to capture the force of the wind, enabling the rider to traverse the water on a board specifically designed for kiteboarding. There is nothing quite like the exhilaration of soaring through the air, feeling the breeze caress your cheeks, and mastering the art of maneuvering a kite. Kitesurfing is a remarkable adventure that captures the spirit of embracing excitement and pushing boundaries.
The psychological thrill
In addition to the excitement of the tangible experience, embracing a daring lifestyle offers a mental rush that is just as stimulating. Engaging in these activities provides an exhilarating experience that stimulates the production of endorphins, the body’s innate pain relievers. This results in a profound sense of joy and an overwhelming feeling of invulnerability. The thrill of this frenzy can become habit-forming, compelling thrill-seekers to pursue fresh and increasingly demanding adventures consistently.
The benefits of embracing the edge
Embracing a daring lifestyle goes beyond pursuing excitement; it presents many advantages. Participating in thrilling adventures can enhance physical well-being, as numerous pursuits demand robustness, stamina, and skill. Furthermore, they have the potential to enhance one’s emotional well-being by offering a means to alleviate tension and unease. Engaging in these activities demands concentration, which can effectively alleviate mental clutter, resulting in a serene state once the surge of excitement diminishes.
The balance of risk and reward
While living life on the edge can be exhilarating, it’s important to remember the balance of risk and reward. Adrenaline-fueled activities often involve a certain level of risk, and it’s essential to approach them with a healthy respect for safety. Proper training, equipment, and precautions can help mitigate these risks, allowing you to enjoy the thrill without unnecessary danger.
Always research your activities and location. This understanding can help you decide if the risk is acceptable and if you have the skills and equipment. Check and maintain your gear, and never sacrifice safety. Finally, embracing adventure with a responsible and safety-conscious mentality lets you enjoy high-risk activities without risking injury.
Living life on the edge embracing adrenaline-fueled moments, is a lifestyle choice that offers a unique blend of thrill, excitement, and personal growth. Whether kitesurfing across the waves, scaling a mountain, or skydiving from a plane, these activities provide an escape from the mundane, a chance to challenge oneself, and an opportunity to experience life at its most vibrant. So, step out of your comfort zone, embrace the adrenaline, and start living on the edge. After all, life is not meant to be lived in the slow lane; rather, it’s about experiencing every thrilling moment it offers.
Outdoor Blog
Renewable Energy Farms That Make Beautiful Hiking Trails

Wind farms and solar panels are not just alternative means to get our natural resources. They have now combined with another industry and are making some unexpected news.
The tourism industry has marked renewable energy farms as hiking trails, and hikers are here for it. You can read more about renewable energy sites. Although you might not think of hiking on a wind farm as beautiful as hiking along a famous mountain trail, you might just be in for a surprise.
Let’s discuss the benefits that renewable energy farms have as hiking trails.
Why are Renewable Energy Farms Important?
Renewable energy farms are important for the future of civilization. These farms provide an alternative to our natural resources, such as wind and energy.
The most important benefit of renewable energy is that it doesn’t produce any greenhouse emissions and reduces the air pollution other traditional processes create when providing natural resources.
These farms also allow for the creation of the country’s own resources without having to import natural resources from another country and save their limited natural resources.
Here are some of the reasons why energy farms are important:
- Allows for sustainable rural development
This will allow landowners to make an extra income by generating energy.
- Test new technologies
Providing the opportunity to test technologies to find new ways to create renewable energy.
- Improving the effect of climate change
Climate change has left the environment filled with toxic pollutants, which has led people to become sick and breathe in harmful air.
Renewable energy can change this by lessening the number of pollutants that are released into the atmosphere and providing much safer, cleaner, breathable air.
- This leads to job creation
Job creation within the renewable energy farms industry is plentiful as there is a need for skilled workers such as construction, maintenance and manufacturing to build the necessary infrastructure that is needed to generate these wind and solar farms.
The Benefits of Renewable Energy Farms As Hiking Trails
Renewable energy farms have many benefits for both the environment and people who love spending their time outdoors.
Embracing the Use of Green Technology
Since wind farms and solar plants are located in areas that are unpopulated, they make for great hiking trails.
By visiting these sites, people get to experience green technology, and by integrating them into recreational spaces, people can visit these sites and embrace green technology by seeing how they work and the positive effects that it has on the environment.
The more people embrace the shift to green technology, the easier it will be to use it.
Energy Farms Offer A Unique Experience For Visitors
Visiting energy farms means you will have a unique experience while there. You will get to see how these large devices work and how they replace the basic resources needed to survive.
Tours can give visitors more information on the background of the construction of devices, their environmental impact and why it is important for us to switch to sustainable energy resources.
Visitors Get to Enjoy Natural Beauty
The sites for these renewable energy farms are often located in areas that are surrounded by natural beauty, such as large landscapes.
Natural pathways can be used as hiking trails without the need for carving out new roads and damaging the ecosystem.
Visitors can even discover native plant life and explore the natural wonders that are located at these energy farms, as they are often placed where no infrastructure has been built on the property before.
Providing Health and Wellness Benefits
Hiking has many health benefits, such as reducing stress, improving fitness, and helping aid mental well-being.
Energy Farms have Community Benefits and Increase the Economy
These hiking trails can help boost economic sales, bringing tourists to the community. This will give the local people the opportunity to expand their businesses.
This can also help increase employment within the community as these sites will be visited frequently and lead to new business openings to cater to tourists.
Conclusion
Renewable energy farms greatly benefit both the economy and the people who want to spend their time on them. These farms are especially important for transitioning from natural resources to newer energy resource power plants.
From learning how to embrace green technology to getting health and wellness benefits to enjoying nature’s natural beauty and finding job opportunities within the market.
Spending time on these renewable energy farms can be educational and recreational for anyone who visits them. To find more renewable energy farm hiking trails, you can visit https://outsidebozeman.com.
Outdoor Blog
Top Recommendations for RV Window Maintenance

Much like other sections of your RV, the windows sometimes need a bit of maintenance. It is essential to clean off dirt and insect smudges and also make sure they are adequately sealed to avoid leaks and water harm.
If you have a broken RV window, then you may want to consult Van Isle Glass. However, if you wish to know more about simple measures to ensure your RV windows stay spotless and secure, you are in the right spot! Continue reading below.
Polish Your Windshield Using Ultra-Fine #0000 Steel Wool
Numerous RV enthusiasts have praised the use of the finest grade of steel wool #0000 for removing stubborn bugs and water marks from their windshields. Before proceeding, first test the #0000 steel wool on a small portion of your windshield. Apply it with light, circular motions. Sweep away any remaining steel wool bits with a microfiber towel. Next, spritz the surface with a residue-free glass cleaner and wipe it down with a separate cloth.
Steel wool is also great when used with a spray lubricant for cleaning tires, maintaining grills, starting campfires, and repelling mice. A gentler alternative is cleansing dish pads. These pads are versatile, suitable for cleaning various materials such as wood, porcelain, stainless steel, chrome, painted areas, and glass.
Apply a Sealant to Avoid Leaks
Silicone sealant is effective in stopping leaks in areas like your windshield, RV windows, sunroof, and vents. It penetrates tiny gaps, creating a robust waterproof barrier. Ensure the surfaces are clean before application and do not have old caulk, dirt, oil, and other residues.
Furthermore, clear away any standing water on windows to prevent hard water stains. Make sure the inside of your windows stay dry to avoid condensation and mold build-up. If there is significant condensation on your windows, consider getting a small dehumidifier.
Use Tools to Access Difficult Regions
Using cleaners with long handles can prevent you from straining to clean those distant parts of your windshield. Windshield cleaning tools often feature a lengthy, swiveling triangular head that is ideal for getting into corners and spots difficult to access manually.
Opt for a Residue-Free Glass Cleaner
A high-quality glass cleaner will maintain the clarity of your windows and windshield. A great glass cleaner performs well on both standard and tinted windows, making sure to remove streaks or leftover residue. Another option is a natural concoction of half vinegar and half water, with a touch of lemon essential oil.
Steer Clear of Cleaning RV Windows in Bright Sunlight
A sunny afternoon may feel perfect for washing your RV windows, but the warmth can speed up the drying of the cleaner, resulting in streaks or spots. It is advisable to tackle your RV window cleaning during early morning, late evening, or when stationed in a shaded area for the best outcome.
Endnote
Keeping your RV windows clean and clear is not only about aesthetics, but is also vital for safety. The subtleties in cleaning, like steering clear of the sun and using the appropriate products, play a key role. Adhering to these guidelines will help you maintain a pristine view during your various journeys.
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