What to put on shoes for water proof

[KMart]

The last Merrell's shoes that I had fell apart on wet grass in the UK. Tried to glue the sole back on, wrapped them in gaffer tape etc, brought them back to NZ and got a refund.

In serious hiking days, I used good old "dubbin" . Heaven knows what was in it, but it kept leather from rotting, but attracted everything else, dirt, flies, cats and vultures ( no, not really) by remaining greasy. Horrible.

Dubbin
Dubbin is a classic care product for leather boots and shoes, made from oil, tallow and natural wax.
The natural wax is generally bees wax
The animal tallow is what draws flies and other critters.

 

[markT]

Ordered some mink oil from Tractor Supply. I’ll give it a try. Thanks

 

[HTSmith]

The last Merrell's shoes that I had fell apart on wet grass in the UK. Tried to glue the sole back on, wrapped them in gaffer tape etc, brought them back to NZ and got a refund.

In serious hiking days, I used good old "dubbin" . Heaven knows what was in it, but it kept leather from rotting, but attracted everything else, dirt, flies, cats and vultures ( no, not really) by remaining greasy. Horrible.

I was dumb enough to try a second pair. Didn't expect them to be waterproof, but I was outdone that the sole falls off from walking in dew. They are comfortable out of the box but don't hold up at all.

 

[FNSafari]

There is a big difference between water proof and water shedding or water resistant. I have had several pairs of Red Wing non insulated for early season bird hunting over the years. I treat them with mink oil. Stand in water long enough or slog through wet brush long enough and your feet will be wet.

I have another pair of red wings, 30 years old, second sent of tread that were advertised as water proof. They were ne and STILL are fully water proof. Its all in the lining and sealing seams. Lovely boots.

 

[Mastershot]

I only wear kenetrek boots

Hardscrabble Hiker

Tackle tough trails with Hardscrabble Hiker boots. Built for durability and support, these boots are perfect for hiking, hunting, and outdoor adventures.

kenetrek.com

And only use their boot wax

Waterproofing Boot Wax

The best dressing and waterproofing for all Kenetrek boots - or any other brand of boots for that matter. Made with a combination of natural vegetable oils, beeswax, and other "special" ingredients, Kenetrek Boot Wax conditions and waterproofs the leather of your favorite boots. It readily...

kenetrek.com

They cost a lot, but they are the best boots around.