You know what it is like–you put on your old suede shoes, go out, and all of a sudden the sky looks like it is going to rain. Suede is a high-end and expensive fabric, though it is also one of the most fragile fabrics that you can put on your feet. Even a drop or two of water may leave stains, rigidity, or discolouration.
The good news? There is no need to skip suede on rainy days. The right techniques and materials can be used to make suede shoes waterproof without spoiling the appearance or feel of the shoes. Here you will find out how to waterproof suede in the safest and professional way, to protect the new suede shoes or repair the old ones.
We will take you through all that is needed, cleaning and prepping, applying the finest suede waterproof spray for suede shoes, keeping your investment safe, stylish, and clean.
Is Suede Waterproof? Understanding the Material
Let’s get this out of the way—no, suede is not waterproof. The substance is composed of the under-skin of animal flesh, and the texture is soft and napped. This smooth covering can appear gorgeous, but it makes suede very porous.
Suede takes up water quickly because of its composition. Water will absorb practically instantly, leaving dark spots, stiff spots, or permanent damage. This is why lots of people pose a question: Is suede waterproof? or Can suede shoes resist rain?
Even the light moisture without treatment will bend the surface and alter the texture of the shoe. This is particularly in the case of light suede color and premium brands such as Uggs, Timberland, Clarks, and other high-quality brands of shoes.
But suede does not have to remain weak with the proper protection regimen. Suede waterproofing sprays are sprays that apply a coating over suede that prevents water but still lets the material breathe. It means that you can now put your favorite shoes on with no hesitation as long as you take good care of them.
How to Waterproof Suede Shoes – A 5-Step Guide
Waterproofing suede does not need to be a complicated procedure. Your favorite shoes can be kept dry, they are not stained or damaged, and all that is required to do so is several steps and the appropriate tools.
Step 1: Clean the Suede Surface
Wash your shoes thoroughly and dry them before placing any product on them. Sealing imperfections with waterproofing on top of dust, dirt, or old stains will lower effectiveness. Clean with a suede cleaning brush and a suede cleaner as necessary. Never proceed to the next step without first letting the shoes dry.
Step 2: Perform a Patch Test
Each suede responds differently depending on its dye and texture. To prevent discoloration, use a test spray on a small area that cannot be easily recognized in your waterproof suede spray- the inside heel or tongue. Wait a couple of minutes and see whether the color or texture will change.
Step 3: Apply the First Coat Evenly
Hold the spray bottle about 6–8 inches away from the shoe. Apply in a uniform sweeping motion to a coat that is even and light. Do not spray too near–this may result in black dots or overcolouring. Be careful not to miss a single surface, as well as seams and edges.
Step 4: Allow Time to Cure Completely
Patience matters. It is preferable to leave the shoes to dry in a well-ventilated place after some hours (or as recommended by the product instructions). Avoid exposing the suede to direct sunlight, heaters, and blow-drying; this will kill the suede.
Step 5: Restore the Nap
After the shoes are completely dry then take the suede brush and gently brush the fibres raised again. This gives back the velvety look and maintains the softness of the texture. Failure to do this may result in the surface appearing flat or dull.
These measures are the best way to protect suede from rain, avoid stains, and prolong the life of the footwear.
What to Use – Choosing the Right Waterproofing Spray
Not all sprays are safe for suede. The proper product must provide a breathable, hydrophobic layer that will not clog the fibers of the material and repel water.
The cheap or generic products might discolour, stiffen, or leave residue. Other individuals even ask the question, does waterproof spray damage suede? – and the answer is yes, but only when you use the wrong variant.
Specialized protectors such as the BIKI Suede & Nubuck Protector are made specifically to work with this material. They provide good power of waterproofing and still maintain the original color, nap, and softness of the suede. In contrast to heavy silicone sprays, the formula of BIKI does not seal out the pores of your shoes- they remain flexible, fresh, and free of stains.
It is always important to use a reliable spray, whether treating sneakers or designer heels, and also when using waterproof suede boots. BIKI spray is also safe on nubuck, which makes it a flexible multi-shoe choice.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Waterproofing Suede
Here are the most common errors people make—and how to avoid them:
- Applying to dirty or damp suede
Waterproofing dirty suede traps grime under the surface and reduces protection.
- Spraying too closely
Holding the bottle too near can create dark spots, streaks, or wet patches.
- Not allowing enough drying time
If the spray doesn’t cure properly, the barrier won’t work effectively.
- Skipping the brushing step
Changing the nap will assist in keeping the suede fresh and prevent flattening.
These pitfalls are avoidable, and by doing so, you can maintain your waterproof suede shoes beautiful, breathable, and full-figured.
FAQs
Q1: How often should I reapply suede waterproofing spray?
On a regular shoe, reapply every 1-2 months. In case of heavy rain or snowfall, put on another coat once your shoes have dried completely.
Q2: Will this waterproofing method work on my Ugg boots?
Absolutely. This method protects sheepskin and suede boots like Uggs from stains and water spots. Just be sure they’re clean before you start.
Q3: Will the spray change the color or feel of my suede?
A quality protector will not alter the texture or the shade. This is the reason why it is necessary to do a patch test in the beginning.
Q4: Can I use this spray on nubuck as well?
Yes. Formulas such as those of BIKI are safe and effective on suede as well as nubuck.
Q5: What do I do with suede that has already gotten wet and stained?
When you are caught in the rain, make a fast move. Wipe the surplus water lightly with a clean, dry cloth–do not rub. Allow the shoes to dry thoroughly, without direct heat. When dry, press the water stain off with a suede eraser followed by brushing it back on with a suede brush to put the nap back. To clean up harder stains, you might require a specific suede cleaner and then move on to waterproofing.
Q6: Will the waterproof spray affect the breathability of my suede shoes?
No, a good spray is supposed to be breathable. It does not cover them; it simply builds a protective layer on the surface of the fibers. This makes it possible to get the moisture vapor out (sweat) to keep your feet comfortable and not stuffy.
Q7: Is it possible to use spray for other suede products, such as jackets or bags?
Yes, absolutely. The BIKI Suede & Nubuck Protector can be applied to other suede and nubuck products such as jackets, handbags, gloves, and hats. All you need to do is the same: wash the product, do a patch test, and apply it in a well-ventilated place.
Q8: What do I do in case I spray excessively? Is there a fix?
When you spray too much and see a dark, wet spot, move quickly. Wipe the excess liquid with a clean, dry microfiber towel immediately. Do not rub, this may cause the liquid to go deeper into the suede. Allow to dry and then apply suede brush to bring back the texture. The spot will normally even out during drying.
Conclusion: Wear Your Suede with Confidence
Suede is not necessarily waterproof, but it can be easily protected with the appropriate routine. Your shoes can be ready for the rain in only a few minutes; a quick clean, proper spraying technique, and a reliable protector will make you ready.
BIKI Shoe Care provides retail and wholesale customers with professional-grade products. Whether it is suede cleaning or long-term waterproofing, their services are preserving premium footwear in a brand-new look. Not only that, but when you require bulk purchases and resale facilitation, the BIKI professionals are there to assist you–so step out in suede with complete confidence.
