Are you wondering if it’s possible to wear suede boots in the rain? You may think that since suede is a delicate material, it needs extra special care when exposed to water. The short answer is Yes! But it needs to be adequately waterproofed because it isn’t meant to tolerate a lot of water.
A few days back, I decided to take my chances with wearing them on rainy days and ended up being surprised, they survived. Now after experimenting with my suede, I am ready to share what I’ve found.
With the right pair of waterproofing products and knowledge of how to apply them properly, your stylish boots can stay looking as good as new. Read on for advice on how to safely keep your suede boots clean, dry, and looking great!
Why is Wearing Suede in the Rain a Bad Idea?
Wearing suede in the rain is generally considered a bad idea because suede is a type of leather with a napped finish, which makes it more susceptible to damage from moisture. Here are a few reasons why wearing suede in the rain is not advisable:
Water Absorption:
Suede has a porous nature, and when it comes into contact with water, it tends to absorb it readily. This absorption can cause the suede to become saturated, leading to a change in texture, color, and overall appearance.
Staining:
Water can cause suede to darken or leave water stains on its surface. The natural oils and dyes in suede may react with water, leading to discoloration or uneven spots on the material.
Loss of Shape:
Suede is more prone to stretching and losing its shape when wet. This can result in a misshapen or distorted look, especially if the boots or shoes are not properly dried and reshaped afterward.
Hardening and Cracking:
When suede becomes wet and then dries without proper care, it can harden and may develop cracks. The napped surface of suede is delicate, and exposure to water can cause it to lose its soft and supple feel.
Mold and Mildew:
Moist conditions provide an ideal environment for the growth of mold and mildew. If suede remains damp for an extended period, it can become a breeding ground for these fungi, leading to unpleasant odors and potential health concerns.
Preventive Measures: How to Protect Your Suede Boots Before Stepping Out in Rain?
I’ve learned some preventive measures to protect my suede boots before stepping out, especially when there’s a chance of rain:
Waterproofing Spray:
I make sure to give my boots a good spray before wearing them out on potentially rainy days. Remember, it’s essential to test the spray on a small, less visible part of the boot first to ensure it doesn’t alter the color.
Regular Brushing:
Regularly brushing your boots with a suede brush helps keep the nap lifted, which naturally makes them more resistant to water and stains. Plus, it keeps the suede looking fresh and new.
Avoid Puddles:
This might seem obvious, but it’s worth mentioning. After my rain mishap, I’ve become extra cautious about where I step when I’m wearing my suede boots. Avoiding puddles and wet surfaces can go a long way in keeping your boots dry.
Have a Backup Plan:
Despite all preventive measures, sometimes getting caught in the rain is unavoidable. Now, I always carry a plastic bag in my purse when I’m wearing my suede boots. If it starts to rain unexpectedly, I can quickly slip my boots into the bags to protect them.
Learning how to properly care for and protect my suede boots in the rain has been a journey. But with these preventive measures, I’ve been able to keep my boots looking their best, regardless of the weather!
Post-Rain Care- Salvaging Your Suede Boots After a Rainy Day:
Over time, I realized that proper post-rain care was essential to salvaging and maintaining suede boots. Here’s what I’ve learned and practiced since then:
Dab, Don’t Rub:
The first time my boots got wet, I made the mistake of trying to rub the water off, which only spread the moisture and made the damage worse. Now, I know better. If your boots get wet, you should dab gently at the wet spots with a dry cloth or paper towel to absorb as much water as possible.
Let Them Dry Naturally:
After my boots get wet, I resist the temptation to speed up the drying process with a hairdryer or heater. Instead, I’ve found that letting them dry naturally, away from direct heat and sunlight, prevents the suede from drying out and cracking.
Use Newspaper or Shoe Trees:
To help the boots retain their shape as they dry, I stuff them with crumpled newspaper or use shoe trees. This also helps absorb any excess moisture from the inside.
Apply a Suede Eraser or Cleaner:
For stubborn water stains, I’ve used a suede eraser or a special suede cleaner with good results. It’s crucial to follow the instructions on the packaging and to test any product on a small, hidden area first.
Reapply Waterproofing Spray:
After cleaning and drying my boots, I always reapply a waterproofing spray to protect them from future rain showers. This last step has saved my boots from many a rainy day since I first learned it.
While it’s best to avoid wearing suede boots in the rain, sometimes it’s unavoidable. But with these post-rain care tips, you can help salvage your suede boots and keep them looking their best for years to come.
Conclusion:
While suede boots and rain may seem like a sartorial disaster waiting to happen, if you take the proper precautions they can become the perfect pair. With the right combination of waterproofing products, appropriate styling techniques, and strategic protections for your shoes, you can pull off a stylish look and keep your beloved suede boots safe from any harm caused by the elements. Try out these tips today to make sure you’re always prepared to turn up the rain!
