Last updated on : November 14th, 2022 at 05:19 pm
Maybe you wonder and ask yourself: how to waterproof leather gloves? There are a few different ways that you can waterproof your leather gloves. One way is to use a leather conditioner or waterproofing spray.
You can also try using beeswax or paraffin wax. Another option is to use a natural oil, such as neatsfoot oil or olive oil. If you are using a leather conditioner or spray, make sure to follow the instructions on the product.
Always use a specific waterproofing wax that will keep your leather gloves from becoming brittle and breaking and ready them for next season.
Waterproofing items is critical to ensure a longer life. We recommend waterproofing all sorts of leather gloves, especially those used for hiking, skiing, riding, working, and other outdoor activities. This article will discuss a step-by-step guide for waterproofing leather gloves using a waterproofing wax. So, let’s dig in!
Why Is It Necessary To Waterproof Leather Gloves?
Waterproof leather gloves can protect them from external factors like dust, dirt, and unexpected water droplets. Such components can invade and harm the interior leather fibers, decreasing the durability and look of the leather gloves.
All gloves should be waterproofed since they will be prone to elements like ice, rain, snow, sweat, moisture, and wind.
It is especially suited for leather gloves used mostly for outdoor activities like hiking, camping, skiing, fishing, cycling, driving, and snowboarding, and for those leather motorcycle gloves that you use for the touchscreen of your mobile or smartphone in winter.
Added wax coatings increase water resistance while maintaining natural breathability in leather gloves. Because wax is just a naturally hydrophobic material, it helps to resist rather than absorb water droplets. This prolongs the colors and textures of your leather gloves. Read this ultimate guide to caring for your gloves!
Steps To Waterproof Your Leather Gloves
According to the National Weather Service, the average rainfall in the United States is 30 inches annually, and if you’re hiking, the rainwater absorbs into your gloves.
This moisture in the gloves makes your gloves dirty and smelly. To make your gloves odor free and look fresh, you need to waterproof the leather gloves. Follow these steps to learn how to waterproof leather gloves by using wax:
Step #1. Wipe the gloves
Ensure your leather gloves are clean before adding any waterproofing wax. You will trap dirt in the leather pores if you do not thoroughly clean the leather gloves’ filth, spots, and grease.
Furthermore, trapping germs and dirt behind a waterproofing coating can rise to the growth of mold and bacteria. To begin cleaning, use a clean cloth or soft towel and apply mild soap to your leather gloves with the help of a this.
The leather gloves should be scrubbed with soap using tiny circular motions. Use just mild pressure to make a uniform coating.
Allow the little amount of mild soap to dry for a few minutes before washing away any surplus with a dry towel. The saddle soap cleans and conditions the leather surface while removing contaminants.
Step #2. Use a waterproofing wax
This is where the magic takes place! A waterproofing wax can assist in preserving your leather gloves from water damage caused by dampness or exposure to water.
After testing some products, the Nikwax waterproofing wax is our preferred waterproofing wax on leather gloves. This is a water-based and biodegradable product with no dangerous or poisonous ingredients.
It is easy and simple to coat your leather gloves with waterproofing wax. Simply begin by using a dry, clean cloth to apply waterproofing wax to the gloves’ leather.
It’s essential to test the waterproofing wax on a small glove area before applying it to the entire glove. To ensure that the whole leather surface is equally covered, employ a nice blend of circular and back-and-forth motions.
Also, use equal pressure when rubbing in the substance, and be careful be to get into all the crevices. Your leather gloves should now have a thin, evenly-coated wax film.
Step #3. Remove extra product
Remove any extra wax from your leather gloves afterward. Wipe any remaining wax with a clean towel. A wax left on for too long may generate uneven water repellency and darker patches in certain regions.
Step #4. Allow your leather gloves to air dry
After applying a waterproofing coating to the leather gloves, let items dry in an open area. A sufficient rest time will allow the leather to absorb the wax before usage completely. Let your leather gloves dry for roughly 24 hours for the greatest results.
Drying leather gloves in direct sunlight can cause discoloration and stiffness. This can cause the wax to dry up before your gloves can soak it thoroughly.
Letting your leather gloves air dry allows them to absorb the wax, resulting in an excellent waterproofing layer that does not compromise breathability. Never dry your glove before the heater because excess heat may damage your gloves.
Which Waterproofing Wax Is The Best?
Before waterproofing the leather gloves, ensure you get good wax. Do you want to know which type of wax is best for your precious leather gloves?
Although many different waterproofing waxes are available, you must always pick one suitable for your leather products.
Most waterproofing treatments contain waxes; however, some products also include questionable and potentially dangerous chemicals.
To prevent unintentionally harming your leather gloves, please carefully check the contents of the waterproofing wax of preference before usage.
We prefer Nikwax waterproofing wax for leather gloves because it works well on leather gloves. Learn how to clean leather work gloves once you properly waterproof them.
By visiting this brand site, you can read people’s reviews and learn the waterproofing and conditioning benefits of Nikwax Waterproofing Wax for Leather.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The most frequently asked questions concerning waterproofing leather gloves are discussed in this section. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions that you would want to have answered. Let’s read below:
#1. How often should you waterproof leather gloves?
Assuming you are talking about gloves made of natural leather, you should waterproof them every few weeks or whenever they start to look dry.
You may need to do it more if you live in a particularly dry or hot climate. You will need a good quality leather conditioner to waterproof your gloves’ seams. Apply it to the gloves using a soft cloth, working it into the leather.
#2. What products can you use to waterproof leather gloves?
Many products can be used to waterproof leather gloves. Some of these products are designed specifically for leather, while others can be used on various materials.
One product that can be used to waterproof leather gloves is a leather conditioner.
This product can help to keep the leather from drying out and cracking. It can also help to make the leather more pliable and less likely to tear.
#3. What are the best leather gloves for waterproofing?
There are many different types of leather gloves on the market, and choosing the right pair for your needs can be difficult.
If you are looking for gloves that will be effective at waterproofing, you will need to consider a few different factors. Some leather is more waterproof than others, so you must choose a pair made from waterproof leather. You might be also interested on reading this article: how to clean leather garden gloves.
#4. What are the most popular waterproof leather gloves?
Many types of waterproof leather gloves are available on the market, and the most popular ones will vary depending on the individual’s needs and preferences.
Some of the most popular waterproof leather gloves are made from Gore-Tex or other impervious and breathable materials, which are ideal for hiking or skiing.
Others may prefer gloves lined with fleece or other insulation for added warmth, while others may prefer a more minimalist design.
#5. How much does it cost to waterproof leather gloves?
Assuming you are talking about a regular pair of gloves made of leather, the cost to waterproof them will depend on the type of waterproofing you use and how you apply it.
Several waterproofing sprays and treatments are available on the market, and they range in price from about $5 to $20 per bottle. You will also need to purchase a leather conditioner to help keep the gloves supple and prevent the waterproofing from making them stiff.
It’s A Wrap!
Knowing how to waterproof leather gloves will help them last longer and keep them looking new. You’re ready to manage this on your own after reading the method of waxing the glove. Take proper care of your expensive pair so that it will always protect you.
Waterproofing is neither a difficult task nor takes too much time. However, this treatment will make your leather glove water resistant so you can use them for many activities. Are you also curious what leather gloves good for snow? Read the article!
Note that for waterproofing the leather gloves, you should use those gloves. So, what are you waiting for? Try this fantastic method to waterproof your favorite leather gloves!