The Leather Care Project: Waterproofing A Pair of Driving Shoes

In this side of the planet, rainy season is sending us an advanced notice through occasional rains and thunderstorms in the late afternoon or early evening - usually just in time for the afternoon rush hour.  When it rains, it does not only literally pour, but it also adds up to what already is heavy traffic.  

Rain is also equivalent to wet shoes, wet feet.  Even if you do not go outside while it is raining, its aftermath - wet pavement and busy streets are sure to splash some water to your shoes. 

While dry season is still officially on, there is time for you to prepare your precious leather for the wet season.  You can apply waterproofing solution on your shoes or bags, if you cannot really keep them away from water during the wet season.  Water is one of the enemies of leather - it can drain the beauty out of the leather, making it susceptible to cracks.    

I tested a waterproofing solution from one of the more reputable brands in leather care - Saphir Invulner Waterproofing (made in France).  BFD volunteered his favorite Gucci driving shoes.  The waterproofing solution claims to be safe to use on sensitive leather, nubuck, and suede. It is silicone-free; it allows the leather to 'breathe', as it protects the surface from water and stain.  It will not cause any discoloration.  I found out these descriptions are true based on the result of the test - a 'healthy leather'.  

By the way, clean and moisturize your shoes before you apply a waterproofing solution.  There are other waterproofing solution brands in the market, but I can only write about a product that I already tried using.  

After giving Saphir Invulner 30 minutes to dry, I applied a second coating. After another 30 minutes or so, I poured water over the shoes.  The water just slid to the floor, and I shook off the remaining droplets - the leather did not absorb the water.  

After waterproofing = clean, moisturized, and protected leather.