Oboz Footwear | How to Clean and Waterproof Your Hiking Boots, by Oboz Footwear on YouTube. 2 min 18 s.
- Video length
- 2 min 18 s
- Time to do it
- 30 minutes plus drying time
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 8
What you need
Steps
Remove loose mud and dirt with a soft brush, then rinse or wipe the boots with a clean cloth and water. Do this after every muddy hike.
For a deeper clean a few times each season, apply Nikwax Footwear Cleaning Gel to the breathable surface and follow the product directions. Rinse well.
Keep solvents, petroleum products and detergents away from the boots. Never put them in a washing machine or dryer.
Let the boots dry at room temperature between 60 and 70°F, away from sunlight, radiators, campfires and hair dryers.
Stuff the boots with newspaper to pull out moisture. Remove the O Fit insoles first so the boots dry faster and smell fresher.
Check whether water still beads on the surface. If the leather or textile soaks up water, it is time to re-waterproof.
Apply a Nikwax waterproofing treatment made for footwear, following the label. Work it into the clean, dry surface.
Let the treatment dry fully at room temperature before wearing the boots. Expect some darkening or discoloration on leather.
Tips and common mistakes
Do not use Sno-Seal or Mink Oil on Oboz boots with cemented midsoles, as they can cause the sole to separate.
Clean your boots after every muddy outing and do a full clean a few times a season.
Do not leave boots in a hot car, because heat can warp the fit and shorten their life.
Questions
How often should I waterproof hiking boots?
Re-waterproof when water stops beading and the surface starts absorbing it. A full clean and treatment a few times a season is a good routine.
Can I put hiking boots in the washing machine?
No. Washing machines and dryers can damage the fit, materials and cemented soles. Clean by hand and air dry.
Will waterproofing darken my boots?
It can. Many treatments darken or discolor leather, so test a small hidden area first if color matters.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
