Are Cowboy Boots Waterproof?
Are Cowboy Boots Waterproof? Cowboy boots are great for keeping your feet dry and safe. But, they might need some help to be ready for very wet weather.
The folks at Ariat have some tips and smart ideas on how to make cowboy boots water-resistant to avoid damage. Keep reading to learn how to take care of leather boots and make them ready for any weather.
Good care for classic leather cowboy boots means your feet will stay clean and dry. For tougher weather, water-resistant cowboy boots are a new twist on the classic boot.
Can Cowboy Boots Get Wet?
Cowboy boots are often made of leather, which means they’re not always waterproof. Without the right waterproofing, leather boots can keep your feet dry to some extent, but they might get marks if they get wet.
If you like cowboy boots with a worn look, marks might not worry you. But for your special pair of boots, you’ll want to know how to make them waterproof to stop stains or check out our suggestions for new waterproof cowboy boots.
Waterproof Western Boots
Ariat offers cowboy boots with Waterproof Pro technology to keep your feet dry and protect your boots. They use high-quality leather and include a waterproof layer.
This technology is durable for heavy use and also lets your feet breathe, keeping them cool on warm days.Look at your choices for men’s and women’s waterproof boots.
Are Leather Boots Waterproof?
After cowboy boots are made to be waterproof, boots made of full-grain leather are good at resisting water but can get stains. The type of material is important for making boots waterproof.
Pick your boots based on what you’ll use them for boots with suede or Nubuck leather look great but might get stains if you wear them in muddy or wet places.
Can I Wear My Boots in the Rain?
If they’re not weatherproof work boots, don’t do it. Unless they have rubber soles, you’ll run the risk of unnecessarily water-logging your boots.
If You do get the soles soaked, insert cedar shoe trees to draw out the moisture while you’re not wearing them & to help prevent mold from developing in your boots.
Place your damp boots in an airy place & keep them out of direct sunlight. If you don’t have cedar shoe trees, spray the interior & exterior with disinfectant (Lysol) & stuff boots with newspaper, packing it in tightly so that the newspaper is in contact with all the moist areas inside every corner of your boots.
You can put a fan on your boots to help with moisture evaporation but don’t use any extreme heat like a blow dryer.
Next day, remove the damp newspaper, Lysol again, and restuff with dry newspaper again. Apply leather conditioner and let that soak overnight to replenish the natural oils that were lost when it got soaked.
FYI, you should never wear the same pair of cowboy boots every day. Wear a pair every other day, switching off with another pair of boots if you must wear boots every day.
The boots need to air out & breathe, hence why cedar trees are important to have because they help preserve & dry out the boots, preventing mold from developing & naturally repelling critters from taking residents in your boots when you’re not wearing them.
Also invest in a good leather cleaner, especially if water stains develop from getting wet, then condition afterward with a conditioner that also makes the leather water repellent like Leather Honey.
Water repellent is not the same as waterproof, but it helps in occasional rains or accidental liquor spills in bars.
Are Cowboy Boots Good for Snow?
Consider these factors when you wear cowboy boots in winter conditions.
Warmth
Classic cowboy boots can keep your feet warm in the snow for a little while, but a boot with insulation, like the Ariat WorkHog Composite toe work boots, will keep your feet warm for much longer. The taller the boot, the less likely snow will get inside.
Stains
Cowboy boots not made to be waterproof can get water marks when snow melts. If you’re asking if you can wear cowboy boots in the rain, know that walking through puddles or getting caught in heavy rain can leave stains on your boots if they’re not waterproofed right.
How To Waterproof Leather Boots
Top-notch cowboy boots, like those from Harry’s Boots, are made with the best leather and expert crafting, making them almost waterproof. But, to make your boots last for many years, it’s key to use some water protectant on them.
Before You Begin
- Clean your cowboy boots well with a dry cloth and brush.
- Check with the boot maker to see if they recommend a special protectant.
- First, try the waterproofing you pick on a small, hidden part of the boot to avoid surprises. Products with oil can make light leather darker, so watch out for any unwanted changes.
Protectant Options
1-Conditioners
Many good leather conditioners also keep water away. Oil pushes water away, so if you keep your boots in good shape with conditioner, they stay soft and look good, and water can’t get into the material.
This doesn’t mean you should wear your cowboy boots into a lake, but a little wetness won’t be an issue if you regularly take care of your leather.
2- Waterproofing Sprays
Waterproofing sprays are fast and simple, but if they have silicone, they could dry out the leather. So, choose a spray without silicone or with a little bit of it. Use the spray after conditioning to make a smooth, clear, water-resistant cover on the leather.
Spray protectants are easy to use and don’t change the color. They usually dry in 30 minutes. These sprays work well for suede and special leathers, and they protect against sunlight to keep the color looking new.
3- Mink Oil
Mink Oil is a top choice for making leather boots waterproof. The oil’s fatty acids soften the leather and make it strong, keeping away scratches and moisture. Putting it on takes more time than using a spray, but it’s better for your boots’ health.
Early hunters first used Mink Oil on their boots to make them more bendy and keep out water. Now, it’s used for high-quality leather items around the world.
To apply, just rub the oil into the leather, then gently heat it with a hairdryer (on low) or in the sun. This warms the oil, helping it sink into the leather and seams. Wipe off any extra oil and let the boots dry overnight.
Tips for Winter Cowboy Boot Care
- Brush your boots often and keep them away from direct heat.
- Use products like mink oil or beeswax to make your boots more resistant to water, stop stains in winter, and keep the leather soft.
- Ensure your boots are dry, then lightly apply oil or balm to the leather and heel, careful not to put too much on stitches or seams. Rub it in and let it soak up, then do it again as needed, or once a week for best results.
Insulation
Looking for warm cowboy boots? Usually, regular farm boots like rubber boots or classic leather cowboy boots aren’t very warm in the cold. But, there are cowboy boots made differently that give more warmth and protection.
Now, there are boots with insulation, like 3M Thinsulate, that keep heat in but still let your feet breathe, keeping them warm and dry in cold, snowy weather. Ariat’s WorkHog waterproof work boots have this insulation, making them a good choice for winter.
Outsoles
Modern cowboy boots come with new technology for more comfort. This tech lets you use the same boots for riding and working in the field, even in winter, without needing to switch boots.
For cold weather, look for cowboy boots with Duratread or full rubber soles for better grip. This helps you stay safe and not slip.
Leather and suede soles are not good for slippery places and shouldn’t be worn in snow or ice. They can get damaged by water and won’t help you stay safe and dry in winter.
Warmth and Layering
If you often feel cold or live in a very cold place (like Montana), cowboy boots might not be the warmest for extreme cold. But, you can use extra layers for more warmth so you stay cozy in your cowboy boots.
Thermal boot socks are a good choice to keep your boots warm in winter. Choose wool socks that are tall enough to reach your calves. A sock with some cushioning on the bottom will keep your feet warm without making your boots too tight.
Comfort
Cowboy boots have improved a lot, with many designed for winter. Some have nylon for extra protection and to keep water out, while others use new technology to keep you warm and dry.
When choosing winter cowboy boots, or if you’re deciding if they’re right for you, remember these tips to stay cozy. Check out our Western cowboy boots to find your perfect pair or look at our insulated work boots for both men and women.
Finding the Right Pair of Waterproof Cowboy Boots
If you’re unsure about how water-resistant your old boots are, think about getting a new pair of truly waterproof cowboy boots. There are many styles available for different needs and ways of life.
If you like wearing ropers, you might like the Ariat Hybrid Rancher. If you’re into classic cowboy boots, Ariat’s Ironside H2O with a 12-inch shaft and a slanted heel could be a good fit. There are also waterproof Western work boots, like the WorkHog XT.
No matter why you need waterproof leather boots, we’ve got you covered. Ariat has a big selection of Western boots, both waterproof and classic. You can shop online or visit one of our stores to see all our waterproof cowboy boots.
FAQ
Can I Wear Cowboy Boots in the Rain?
Leathers like suede and nubuck can become discolored or develop water stains as soon as they get wet if they do not have a waterproofer on them. If you have a pair of nubuck or suede boots, it is best to use a waterproof protector spray ahead of getting wet. Remember to avoid wearing them in rainy or wet conditions.
Are Cowboy Boots Good for Winter?
While cowboy boots can handle rain when treated and conditioned, they’re not typically the best choice for snowy conditions. Traditional cowboy boots lack textured soles for grip on snow or ice.
Do You Put Cowboy Boots in the Water?
The wet socks might feel uncomfortable, but they’ll protect you from wet boot blisters! As the boots dry, they’ll shrink and mold to the shape of your feet. Keep the boots largely in the shade so they dry slowly. If they’re thick boots, it might take several days to dry fully.
When Should You Not Wear Cowboy Boots?
There are no rules, but consider avoiding wearing them during formal black-tie events where dress shoes are more appropriate unless you want to stand out. After all, in their essence, cowboy boots are casual footwear. So, don’t wear them to business events unless you live in Texas or work in the oil industry.
Is it OK if Leather Cowboy Boots Get Wet?
The good news is that getting leather wet is usually not as damaging as letting it become too dry. The bad news: you may have a bit of work to do. Getting leather wet is usually not as damaging as letting it become too dry. If your boots got wet, have now dried, and you don’t see any watermarks or salt stains, yay
Do Cowboy Boots Get Sweaty?
The leather used for cowboy boots is usually so soft that it reduces pressure points and provides a snug fit. This also allows the foot to breathe, preventing sweat and moisture from building up inside the boot.
Does Salt Ruin Cowboy Boots?
The high salt content absorbed in some snow can also cause staining that will dry out the leather on your cowboy boots, causing wet feet and a fashion faux pas. Tips for Winter Cowboy Boot Care: Brush your boots regularly and store them away from direct heat.
Do Cowboy Boots Last Long?
A good one could still last decades. I have boots that are over 40 years old and look great but I don’t work in the field in them. I also had a 40 dollar pair that were work style cowboy boots and I got more than 20 years out of those.
Is it too Hot to Wear Cowboy Boots in Summer?
Breathability: Many modern cowboy boots are designed with breathable materials, such as leather or suede, which allows air circulation and helps keep the feet cooler during hot summer days.
