How To Waterproof Tennis Shoes? [Procedure, Time & Cost]
Tennis shoes are made of flexible materials with dense rubber soles, especially serve for athletic purposes. You do not want to spoil the look of your tennis shoes by not treating them with a proper waterproofing product.
Also, it is mandatory to waterproof tennis shoes to avoid skin issues and make them look new as ever.
Spending a few bucks on the waterproofing method can save you time and trouble. And you will be amazed by the results of using the below waterproofing products on your shoes.
Now, read this article to know about the various waterproofing methods for your tennis shoes that are time and cost-effective.
What Happens If Tennis Shoes Get Wet?
Have you ever gotten your tennis shoes wet? If yes, you know the shoes can get crampy once it gets wet, since the tennis shoes have rubber and leather outsole. The water seeps through the shoes, and the skin absorbs the water becoming waterlogged.
If your tennis shoes get wet for a prolonged time, it can damage the insole and outsole, and your shoes become prone to wear and tear.
Especially if your tennis shoes get soaked in water, apart from shoe damage, it can cause painful cracks in your feet and even cause injuries.
Remember that wet shoes not only cause discomfort but also cause fungal infections in your feet. It is also necessary to dry your shoes immediately if it gets wet. However, waterproofing your tennis shoes will be a permanent solution to this issue.
How To Waterproof Tennis Shoes?
To waterproof your tennis shoes, follow any waterproofing methods from the mentioned list to achieve the best results.
- Beeswax method
- Crep protect spray method
- Kiwi water repellent spray method
- Mink oil method
1. How to Waterproof Tennis Shoes Using Beeswax?
If you are looking for an easy method to waterproof your tennis shoes, the beeswax method is for you.
The tennis shoes are nothing but canvas shoes with a top layer made of cloth or a synthetic substitute. So, applying beeswax as an outer coating result in ideal waterproofing. Also, beeswax is not soluble in water and helps to block the moisture from the exterior surface.
Beeswax also helps to seal and protect the surface from water. Also, if you do not want to go for chemical ingredients, you can blindly opt for beeswax due to its natural substances.
Beeswax has a high melting point, and it does not wear off easily from shoes making it an excellent waterproofing material. It has high resistance to solvents and does not have a strong odor, so you do not want to be concerned about waxy-smelling shoes anymore.
Let’s get to know the instructions of the beeswax method.
Required Items
- Beeswax/ candle wax
- Shoe brush
- Blow dryer
Procedure [Step by Step]
1. Clean and dry the shoes
- You do not want any stains on your shoes, so clean your tennis shoes thoroughly before waterproofing them.
- Also, dry the shoes completely before treating your tennis shoes with any waterproofing method.
2. Apply Beeswax on tennis shoes
- Apply the wax on the small portion of the shoe to check the wax causes any stains on the shoes.
- Then rub the wax on the tennis shoes using a shoe brush.
- Always apply the wax as a uniform layer all over the shoe for complete waterproofing and to get the ideal looking tennis shoes.
3. Dry
Now, blow hot air on the waxed tennis shoes to melt the wax so it can penetrate the shoes; to form a water protective layer on them.
You can immediately subject your tennis shoes to a waterproof test. If you think your shoes need some extra waterproof, you can also apply a second layer of wax coating on them and dry them again.
Precautions
- Prefer outdoor space to perform this waterproofing method since beeswax is highly flammable.
- Always take necessary precautions by wearing masks and gloves since the wax may cause allergic reactions when it comes to contact with the skin.
Time
The application process takes a minimum time of 20 minutes. And the drying process takes up to 5 to 10 minutes.
The total processing time is around 30 minutes.
Cost
Approximate cost for the required items:
- Beeswax – $4
- Shoe Brush – $12
- Blow Dryer – $45
The overall cost for this method will be around $60.
2. How to Waterproof Tennis Shoes Using Crep Protect Spray?
If you are looking for a time-efficient method, you can waterproof your tennis shoes using Crep protect spray; to achieve your desired result.
Crep protect spray is an excellent product to seal the rubber & leather outsole of your tennis shoes, and it can increase the durability of your shoes.
Crep protect spray creates an invisible barrier on the surface and protects against any moisture. This product comes with an easy to use aerosol spray that can seal and block the shoe surface from any precipitation.
Crep spray also repels any kinds of liquids, spills and prevents your tennis shoes from stains and damage.
Required Items
- Crep protect spray
- Small brush
Procedure [Step by Step]
1. Clean and dry the shoes
- You do not want any stains on your shoes, so clean your tennis shoes thoroughly before waterproofing them.
- Also, dry the shoes completely before treating your tennis shoes with any waterproofing method.
2. Apply Crep protection spray
- Shake the spray well and apply a nice coating of Crep protection spray all over the tennis shoes. You can also use a small brush to spread the spray on all nooks and corners.
- Leave it to dry for 10 minutes then, apply a second coating of spray all over the tennis shoes.
- Ensure you keep the Crep protection spray at a distance of 10-15 cm away from the shoes; to avoid the spray getting concentrated on areas.
3. Dry
- Let the tennis shoes get dry for 1 hour.
- Once it is completely dry, your tennis shoes are perfectly waterproofed.
Points to remember
- Store the sprayer in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight.
- Although the Crep protection spray is non-toxic and non-flammable, always waterproof your tennis shoes in a nice ventilated area.
Time
While the application process takes a minimum time of 10-15 minutes, the overall drying process can take up to 1 hour.
The total processing time is around 2 hours.
Cost
Approximate cost for the required items:
- Crep protector spray – $15
The overall cost for this method will be around $15.
| Photo | Product | Buy |
|---|---|---|
 | Crep Protect Shoe Protector Spray - Rain & Stain Waterproof Nano Protection for Sneaker, Leather, Nubuck, Suede & Canvas | Check Price On Amazon |
3. Waterproof Tennis Shoes Using Kiwi Water Repellent Spray
This method involves the Kiwi water repellent spray that can act best waterproofing product for tents, outdoor gears, boat covers, patio furniture, boots, tarps and much more.
Kiwi water repellent spray can keep the water out and allow your tennis shoes to breathe. This spray contains silicone that can easily bond to versatile rubber outsoles of the tennis shoes and create a tough water barrier on the surface.
By providing complete water protection, the kiwi water repellent spray can withstand extremely cold temperatures.
Also, the odor of the spray gets disappeared after drying and gives a smooth finish. You can extend the durability of your shoes by waterproofing using this method.
Required Items
Procedure [Step by Step]
1. Clean and dry the shoes
- You do not want any stains on your shoes, so clean your tennis shoes thoroughly before waterproofing them.
- Also, dry the shoes completely before treating your tennis shoes with any waterproofing method.
2. Apply Kiwi water repellent
- Once the tennis shoes are free from dust and completely dried, give a gentle coating of Kiwi water repellent spray on them.
- Leave them to dry for 10 minutes then, apply a second coating of spray all over the tennis shoes.
3. Dry
- Let the tennis shoes get dry for 1 hour.
- You will get ideal waterproofed tennis shoes after drying.
Precautions
- Store the sprayer in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight.
- Kiwi water repellant spray is extremely flammable, so choose outdoor while waterproofing your tennis shoes.
Time
While the application process takes a minimum time of 10-15 minutes, the overall drying process can take up to 1 hour.
The total processing time is around 2 hours.
Cost
Approximate cost for the required items:
- Kiwi sneaker protector spray – $7
The overall cost for this method will be around $7.
| Photo | Product | Buy |
|---|---|---|
 | KIWI Unisex Adult Shoe Waterproofer Sneaker Protector, 4.25 Oz, Black, 1 Count Pack Of 1 US | Check Price On Amazon |
4. How to Waterproof Tennis Shoes Using Mink Oil?
Mink oil is specially formulated to repel water, oil and salt stains. And it acts as the best waterproofing method for your tennis shoes.
Mink oil is an ideal product for waterproofing shoes, boots, belts, bags, purses and much more. Also, Mink oil can make your tennis shoes more water-resistant by blocking the moisture from outside and adhering to the rubber outsole.
Mink oil can penetrate the pores of the shoes and fill the gaps within by creating a thick coating on the surface. So, it can completely block the moisture from outside, which results in flawless waterproofed tennis shoes.
Required Items
Procedure [Step by Step]
1. Clean and dry the shoes
- You do not want any stains on your shoes, so clean your tennis shoes thoroughly; before waterproofing them.
- Also, dry the tennis shoes completely before treating your tennis shoes with any waterproofing method.
2. Apply mink oil
- Coat your tennis shoes with mink oil using latex gloves. You can also use a brush to apply if desired.
- Once you apply the mink oil all over the edges, set your tennis shoes to dry for 5 minutes.
3. Final step
- Then using a microfiber towel, wipe off the excess oil gently.
- Now, the absolute waterproofed tennis shoes are ready for your use.
Precautions
- Do not apply mink oil too much on your shoes since the oil can clog the fabric pores and lead to bacterial and mold growth.
Time
While the application process takes a minimum time of 10 minutes, the overall drying process can take up to 10 minutes.
The total processing time is around 20 minutes.
Cost
Approximate cost for the required items:
- Mink oil – $10
- Microfiber cloth – $15
- Disposable gloves – $ 10
The overall cost for this method will be around $35.
Final Comments:
Though waterproofed tennis shoes are already available, they cost more money. Hence, you can treat your favorite tennis shoes with affordable waterproofing methods and achieve a seamless result.
