Neat Tricks to Waterproof Your Workout Shoes

As the weather changes, we’ve reached the point when it’s not yet time to wear boots, but it’s too wet to wear athletic shoes…or is it? As long as it’s not too cold and icy to wear running shoes, it is actually possible to waterproof your workout shoes. This way, you won’t end up with water squishing up between your toes with every step you take on a rainy day.

Furthermore, by deciding to waterproof your workout shoes goes beyond basic comfort. Taking this step will also help to protect the shoes and prolong their life. Considering the price tag that often comes with this gear, a little bit of extra protection to extend the life can save you a lot of grief and money. It will also help to reduce the number of stains and other issues regarding debris that can build up over time.

Though this is technically the case with all kinds of footwear, choosing to waterproof your workout shoes will usually have a bigger impact. For one thing, the type of material used for athletic footwear, such as canvas or mesh, can allow a lot more water to seep through. For another, many of us spend a great deal more time in sneakers than in other kinds of shoes, so it will help our feet for a larger portion of our day.

Use the following tips to waterproof footwear more efficiently and effectively:

· Start with clean shoes – the most effective waterproofing is on squeaky clean shoes. If yours aren’t brand new when you decide to apply this barrier then you’ll want to clean them first. Check with the manufacturer’s website for the best ways to clean the materials that make up your shoes. Don’t forget to remove the laces, first.

· Rinse your clean shoes – once you’ve gently scrubbed them clean, give them a good rinse in cool water. Dab them clean with a microfiber cloth or clean paper towels. This will help to remove any signs of the cleaner you’ve used and any leftover debris. If you skip this step, the waterproofing spray may not adhere properly and it won’t be as effective.

· Work with thoroughly dry shoes – unless the waterproofing spray says otherwise, make sure your shoes are extremely dry before spraying them. Let them dry overnight in a well ventilated area, stuffed with clean newsprint to support the fabric and reduce drying time.

· Use a good quality waterproofing spray – if you’re going to all this effort, don’t cheap out on the spray you use. Read reviews and choose a very good quality product. Use it liberally as per the directions, even if this means you use most or all of the bottle after you’ve completed the number of coats that are recommended.

· Let the shoes dry again – repeat the drying process overnight.

Don’t forget that even the best spray doesn’t last forever. You may need to repeat this entire list of steps every few months. That said, if you intend to head out in wet weather, it will be more than worth it.