How do you waterproof your hunting boots at home?

[ForestTrek_5]

Last season, my leather hunting boots leaked after a soggy day near the Battenkill, so I've been experimenting with at-home waterproofing to keep my feet dry on long deer hunts. What's your go-to method or product for waterproofing hunting boots to handle Vermont's wet, muddy conditions?

 

[finn.jay]

Mink oil on leather boots works wonders for Vermont mud, rub it in with a cloth after cleaning, then stuff them with newspaper to dry slow. Do it twice a season and they will shed water like new.

 

[CraftyLoom]

For at-home treatment, use Nikwax Wax Proof on the leather seams, it soaks in deep without making them stiff.

I did that to my old Danners and they handled a full week of rain last fall no leaks.

 

[ForestTrek_5]

Mink oil sounds like a solid fix. How much do you apply to avoid gunking up the leather?

Mink oil on leather boots works wonders for Vermont mud, rub it in with a cloth after cleaning, then stuff them with newspaper to dry slow. Do it twice a season and they will shed water like new.

 

[finn.jay]

Mink oil sounds like a solid fix. How much do you apply to avoid gunking up the leather?

Don't glob it on, just a thin coat worked in with a cloth until the leather darkens slightly. Let it soak overnight and wipe the excess. Too much and you'll get sticky boots that collect dirt. Think of it like seasoning a cast iron pan, light, even layers.

 

[Wilson]

Last season, my leather hunting boots leaked after a soggy day near the Battenkill, so I've been experimenting with at-home waterproofing to keep my feet dry on long deer hunts. What's your go-to method or product for waterproofing hunting boots to handle Vermont's wet, muddy conditions?

Oh man, I've been there. I use a beeswax-based treatment and hit the seams good. I also learned the hard way to reapply before every wet season, not after. Dry socks save hunts, trust me