How to Waterproof Tennis Shoes | Stay Dry on Every Run

A pair of wet sneakers ruins a good run and shortens the life of your shoes. The right waterproofing routine keeps water out without damaging the materials. The process breaks into three stages: clean, apply the correct product for your shoe type, and dry properly. One wrong step — skipping the cleaning, using heat to speed drying, or picking a leather wax for mesh — and the waterproofing fails or the shoe suffers. Here is the exact sequence that works for fabric, leather, suede, and mixed-material tennis shoes.

Clean Your Shoes First (Cleaning Is Not Optional)

Waterproofing products bond to clean fabric. Dirt, mud, and old oils create a barrier that stops the spray or wax from absorbing. Brush off loose clumps of dirt and mud first. Nikwax recommends scrubbing shoes with its Footwear Cleaning Gel. Rinse thoroughly. For most athletic shoes, let fabric shoes stay slightly damp before applying a spray waterproofing product — the moisture helps the treatment spread. Leather shoes should dry completely before waxing.

Pick the Right Waterproofer for Your Shoe Material

Using the wrong product damages the material or simply does not work. Match the product to your shoe type. The table below shows three common materials and the Nikwax product designed for each. These are widely available and trusted for athletic footwear.

If you prefer wool-based tennis shoes for their natural water resistance and breathability, our tested roundup of the best wool tennis shoes covers the top models that handle moisture well on their own.

Apply Evenly and Focus on Seams

Water enters tennis shoes through stitching, seams, and the tongue area more often than through the main fabric. Spray evenly over the entire shoe, including heels, toes, laces, and tongue, holding the can about 6 inches from the surface. HOKA’s weather-proofing guide recommends working outside, wearing a face mask, and possibly applying a second layer if the bottle instructions call for it. Wipe any excess with a clean microfiber cloth immediately. For leather shoes treated with wax, rub the wax in like lotion and buff thoroughly. Remove laces before spraying to avoid stiffening them.

Dry Naturally, Never Near Heat

Shoes must dry completely and cure before you wear them. HOKA says to let them air dry overnight. Some guides recommend about 24 hours. Place shoes away from direct sunlight, radiators, hair dryers, or any other heat source. Nikwax warns that direct heat can cause soles to de-bond and leather to dry out and crack. To speed drying safely, stuff the shoes with newspaper or paper towels to absorb moisture, then change the paper every few hours. A successful cure means the waterproofer has bonded fully — test by sprinkling a few drops of water on the treated area. If they bead and roll off, the treatment worked. If they soak in, the shoe needed a thinner coat or more drying time.

FAQs

How often should I re-waterproof tennis shoes?

Reapply when water stops beading on the surface. For regular runners, that usually means every 4–6 weeks in wet conditions. Leather shoes treated with wax may last longer before re-treatment. Clean the shoes again before each fresh application.

Can I use a single spray on any shoe material?

No. Fabric sprays can stain suede and nubuck, and wax products clog mesh. Suede and nubuck need a dedicated spray that preserves the nap. Full-grain leather responds best to wax or cream waterproofers. Check the product label against your shoe material before applying.

Does waterproofing guarantee my shoes stay completely dry?

No waterproofing product makes a shoe fully waterproof. Mesh panels, stitching, and glued seams remain weak points. A good treatment provides strong water resistance for normal rain and puddles, but submerging the shoe or wearing it in heavy downpours will still let moisture through.