Tips to protect leather shoes from rain

As is often the case, prevention is better than cure. Whether the shoes are made of smooth leather, nubuck or suede, either way, leather and rain don’t make good bedfellows. As far as possible, try to only wear leather shoes in fine weather. All the same, if you live in an area that often has bad weather, it doesn’t mean you can never wear a pair of beautifully elegant shoes.


As we’ve explained: leather and rain just don’t get on. So, if you have to walk to the office and it’s raining cats and dogs: don’t wear your best leather shoes! Wear trainers to get there, then change your shoes on arrival. Not only will you be protecting your leather shoes, you’ll also be able to work in dry feet, and that's a joy that’s definitely worth having!

In wet weather, rubber-soled shoes are the obvious choice. They have a good grip, they’re waterproof and they insulate your feet from the ground, making them much more suitable for rainy days than leather soles, which can also be very slippery in the rain. This is particularly true of new outsoles: make sure that the first time you wear them it’s in dry weather!

Rubber soles are perfect for bad weather, and they don’t necessarily have to look like sportswear. Many formal shoes, Derby shoes, Oxford shoes and boots are given rubber soles to keep feet dry and insulate them from the cold, without compromising the elegance of the model.

If you’re after more of a country look, rugged shoes with lugged rubber soles are just what you need. Chelsea boots, Derbies, ankle boots: all these models, inspired by outdoor activities, offer unparalleled grip and can be worn both around town and for “back-to-nature” week-ends.

For walking around in fine drizzle, opt for a model made of oiled leather, or a suede that has had a water-repellent treatment – both these materials are fine in the rain. Note that all Bexley suede shoes are treated with a water-repellent. On the other hand, remember that a pair of aniline calf’s leather shoes will be extremely fragile if they get wet.

Before going out in the rain, polish your shoes a number of times to make them naturally waterproof. And to protect them even more effectively, finish with a waterproofing spray.

Waterproofing

A good quality waterproofing product is your closest ally when it comes to protecting your shoes and keeping them in good condition for a long time. We recommend always waterproofing new shoes before you wear them for the first time, particularly in autumn and winter.

Apply the waterproofing spray evenly over the entire surface of the leather or nubuck uppers, and don’t forget to polish any leather soles, to protect them from the wet.

Note, however, that a waterproofing product in the form of a spray will only protect your shoes from light rain, not from a heavy shower

Polishing

Caring for your shoes assiduously is still the best way of keeping them as long as possible.

Well nourished, frequently polished leather is better equipped to stand up to the weather. This is why we recommend regular cleaning with a nourishing leather lotion, and polishing weekly, as well as every time your shoes have been out in the rain.

Once the polish is completely dry, you can perfect your efforts by re-applying a waterproofing spray.

Protecting the soles of your shoes from the rain with pads

If your shoes have leather outsoles, we recommend having rubber pads fitted. As well as protecting the soles from scratches and delaying wear and tear, you’ll find your shoes have a better grip. No more slipping and sliding!