The 7 Best Waterproof Sprays For Shoes

• Also available on Walmart, $14

An all-around great pick, this Kiwi waterproof spray is designed to work on genuine leather, faux leather, suede, nubuck, and fabric, and with a 4.6-star rating after 6,000 reviews, it’s a clear winner. The application method is simple: Just spray from 6 to 8 inches away and allow to dry (which takes about 90 minutes, according to reviewers). The best part: Reviewers are pleased with how it doesn’t darken shoes.

Helpful review: “Recently [my husband] took a new pair of white adidas to Boston where he walked all weekend. I treated them as directed by coating twice. They came back looking brand new! He even walked through the rain part of the time. Amazing stuff! This will save us so much money in fresh white shoes!”

• Also available on Walmart, $30 (2-Pack)

Boasting a stellar 4.6-star overall rating after more than 15,000 reviews, the Crep Protect hydrophobic spray for shoes is a bona fide fan favorite. Reviewers are pleased with how well it works on canvas — rare for any waterproofing spray — but it also shields suede, nubuck, leather, and linen. It won’t change the color of the material, and it’ll help shoes resist any future stains. Spray from 4 inches away, and the formula will dry in an ultra-fast 10 minutes — perfect if you’re just about to head out the door.

Helpful review: “I have used this on two pairs of white canvas shoes and it did not change the color at all. It has kept my brand new Converse completely white and stain-free. I have used it on all my shoes, in addition to keeping dirt and smudges off it makes them completely waterproof.”

Formulated especially for colorfast suede and leather, even lighter shades, this leather waterproofing spray can also be used to treat leather bags, jackets, and more. In addition to making your shoes water-repellent, the invisible layer helps protect them from scuffing and stains. The spray helps keep shoes supple and conditions leather as well. To use, simply spray items at a 6- to 9-inch distance. This spray won’t stain light-colored leather, and it dries in under an hour. However, it's not the best choice for unfinished or raw hide.

Helpful review: “I am always worried that a leather protector will change the color of my shoes. As you can see, I used this spray on nubuck, suede and smooth leather. As soon as the product dried, all of my shoes returned to their original color. The aerosol can made application a breeze.”

• Also available on Kohl’s, $8

Designed with athletic and performance materials in mind, this waterproofing spray from Sof Sole can also be used on real leather, but not faux leather. Spray onto shoes and other items, and let dry for a few hours. You can also apply a second coat for longer-lasting waterproofing. Best yet, items remain breathable even after applying, and won’t change the color of your kicks.

Helpful review: “This is an AWESOME product for extending the life of your sneakers. I put it on every sneaker I buy before I ever put them on. Great price, also, for what you're getting. If you love your shoes, you'll appreciate the protection you get from this product.”

• Also available on Walmart, $7

While you may not want to use it on finer leathers or more high-end shoes, this waterproof spray for boots is a budget-friendly pick that adds a tough layer of protection to your more hardy footwear. With a 4.6-star overall rating after nearly 7,000 reviews, it’s highly rated and won’t darken shoes unless they’re light in color. Just spray from 7 to 10 inches away and allow to dry for 24 to 48 hours.

Helpful review: “I am amazed at how well it works. I have walked through streams with this stuff on my boots and remained completely dry most of the time and on rare occasions my socks are slightly damp at the toes. I plan on using this stuff from here on out. Follow the directions when applying it, spray liberally, let it dry for a day and do it again. Your boots should be watertight. Great value and product.”

• Also available on Walmart, $7

This silicone-based protector leaves a strong layer of water resistance, and it’s suitable for heavy-duty use — in fact it can be applied to tents, tarps, boat covers, and patio furniture. Reviewers wrote that it won’t leave a shiny finish or discoloration but is still effective. To apply, spray shoes or desired product from about 9 inches away and reapply after two hours. Allow to dry (for up to 48 hours) before using items that have been treated.

Helpful review: “I just keep buying this product! Works on Merrill shoes, jackets, and great on tents. My go-to water repellent coating. Works without leaving a shiny or slimy finish.”

Most waterproofing sprays use silicone to repel moisture, but this classic French formula from Saphir uses all-natural ingredients, including pine-based turpentine, vegetable waxes, and mink oils (you might guess that it’s not vegan). It’s suitable for use on leather, suede, and nubuck, and will nourish materials so they look and feel great for years to come. Just as good, reviewers have reported it won’t alter the color, even if you’re using it on light suede. Just clean your shoes with a shoe brush, then spray from 12 to 18 inches away, then allow to dry for 30 minutes. Although it’s definitely a pricey option, it’s a great pick if you’ve got a pair (or several pairs) of investment shoes you want to protect.

Helpful review: “This spray came highly recommended by strangers on the internet, and I have to say, they did not disappoint. I live in the Pacific Northwest (read: it rains 11.5 months out of the year.) There was enough spray to seal 2 pairs of leather knee high boots, fingerless gloves, fanny pack 2.0, and enough left over for at least 1, possibly 2 more products. It's done a good job of protecting these expensive items from the elements I live with.”

• Also available on Walmart, $33

While leather conditioner won’t waterproof as much as a spray or other treatment, it will condition and repair leather that is already stained from rain. This conditioner also helps make items water-repellant, but not waterproof, while it softens and moisturizes them. Simply buff on shoes and other items that you have wiped clean, removing the laces if necessary. Once the leather is dry, a treatment should last up to six months. It's good for vintage leather as well as for new products. However, it is not designed for suede or faux leather, and it's a good idea to spot test first, as it may darken some leathers.

Helpful review: “This product gave my leather boots and shoes a treatment that made the leather more soft and like new. I had hoped that it would make my golden brown boots more amber colored. It did! They are a gorgeous color.”