Nikwax Fabric & Leather Proof – Waterproofing Spray for Boots & Shoes – 125ml

Description

Nikwax Fabric & Leather Proof – reliable waterproofing for boots that see real weather

If you have ever felt that cold, creeping dampness halfway through a walk, you will understand why I keep Nikwax Fabric & Leather Proof on my own shelf. It is a spray-on waterproofing spray for hiking boots and everyday combination footwear that revives water repellency without suffocating the material. I recommend it to anyone whose shoes mix leather panels with textile or mesh — the kind of walking boots and trainers most of us actually wear.

Rather than sealing your footwear under a plastic-like film, Nikwax leaves a flexible, water-repellent treatment on the individual fibres. Rain beads up and rolls off, but moisture vapour from your feet can still escape. That balance is exactly what keeps you comfortable on a long day out, and it is why this footwear waterproofer is trusted alongside membranes like Gore-Tex.

A quick word on getting the best from it. Waterproofing always performs better on a clean shoe, because dirt and old product stop the treatment bonding to the fibres — so a proper clean beforehand is never wasted effort. And because the repellency develops as the boots dry, you do not need bone-dry footwear to begin; you can proof straight after cleaning, which fits neatly into a real maintenance routine rather than adding a separate chore. I also like that it is water-based and non-flammable, so there are no harsh solvent fumes to worry about when you apply it in the porch or by the back door. Little details like that make the difference between a product you actually use and one that sits forgotten in the cupboard.

Why choose Nikwax Fabric & Leather Proof?

• Breathable protection: it restores Durable Water Repellency (DWR) while letting your feet breathe, so boots do not turn clammy on the inside.
• Made for combination materials: ideal for footwear that mixes smooth leather with fabric or mesh — walking boots, hiking shoes and many trainers.
• PFAS-free and water-based: a modern, non-flammable formula you can apply indoors without harsh fumes.
• Works on damp boots: no need to wait for shoes to dry fully — you can spray straight after cleaning, which saves real time.
• Genuinely easy to apply: an even spray, a quick wipe of the excess, and you are done.

One honest note from me: this proofer is designed for smooth leather and fabric combinations. It is not the right choice for nubuck or suede, which need a dedicated suede spray, and light-coloured footwear can darken slightly after treatment.

How to use Nikwax Fabric & Leather Proof

1. Brush off loose dirt, then clean the footwear thoroughly — I like to use a cleaning gel first so the proofer bonds to a fresh surface.
2. Shake the bottle well before use.
3. Spray generously and evenly over the whole shoe, paying attention to seams and creases where water sneaks in.
4. Leave for 3–5 minutes, then wipe away any excess with a clean cloth.
5. Allow the boots to air dry naturally. The repellency develops as they dry.

My personal tip: reproof whenever you notice water starting to soak in rather than bead, and always test on a hidden area first if you are treating pale or delicate footwear.

Specifications

• Volume: 125ml
• Type: spray-on waterproofing / impregnation treatment
• Suitable for: combination fabric and leather boots, walking boots, hiking shoes, everyday footwear
• Not suitable for: nubuck, suede and faux leather
• Brand: Nikwax

Frequently asked questions

Does it make boots waterproof or just water-resistant? It builds a durable water-repellent finish that makes rain bead and run off. On combination footwear it dramatically improves water resistance while keeping the material breathable.

Can I use it on suede or nubuck? No — for those materials choose a dedicated suede and nubuck spray. This proofer is for smooth leather and fabric combinations.

How often should I reapply? Whenever water stops beading and starts soaking in. For regular walkers that is typically every few outings, especially after cleaning.

Where can I buy Nikwax Fabric & Leather Proof in the UK? You can order Nikwax Fabric & Leather Proof directly from Shoespecialist.co.uk. We offer free delivery on orders over £50, same-day dispatch when you order before 5pm, and a 60-day return policy.