When you first receive a new pair of classic UGG boots, they are not waterproof. But, with the right product and technique, you can easily waterproof every single pair that you have.
In this article, you will learn how to waterproof UGG boots. You will also learn which UGG boots are snow-proof and waterproof, in case you don’t want the hassle of waterproofing them.
Are UGG boots actually waterproof?
UGG boots have been pretreated to repel moisture and stains, but they are not waterproof. A few drops of water won’t damage them, but large amounts of liquid can seep in through the seams.
Can you wear UGG boots in the snow?
It is not recommended to wear classic UGG boots in the snow. They are okay to wear when it’s lightly snowing, but you shouldn’t wear them in a blizzard or through inches of powder.
What happens if you wet UGG boots?
A few drops of water won’t hurt them, but a large amount of liquid will eventually soak through, especially the classic UGG boots made of suede and sheepskin materials.
If you let UGG boots stay wet for too long, water can loosen the adhesives, damage the natural sheepskin pile, misshape the exterior, and show discolored splotches.
Moisture may also cause UGG boots to become hard and crusty.
To keep your UGG boots looking as good as new, blot spills and stains immediately with a clean dry cloth. Use the UGG shoe care kit to maintain their look and keep the sheepskin pristine.
Alternatively, you can also apply waterproofing spray once every few months to maintain their water resistance because the original pre-treatment eventually wears off over time.
How to waterproof UGG boots
Contrary to popular belief, you can easily waterproof suede and sheepskin material. If this is your first time waterproofing UGG boots, take the time to learn how to do it properly.
1. If they’re not brand new, clean them first
Before waterproofing your UGG boots, you’ll need to make sure they are clean and dry. If your boots are brand new, you can move on to the next step. Otherwise, clean them first.
If you want the best results, we recommend using the UGG shoe care kit to clean your UGG boots thoroughly. The kit contains a protector, cleaner and conditioner, and “renew” spray.
Here’s how to clean your UGG boots before waterproofing:
- Gently the surface of each pair to remove dirt.
- Moisten the entire surface of each pair with clean, cold water.
- Apply a small amount of Cleaner & Conditioner to a clean, wet sponge.
- Gently scrub to clean the entire area.
- Rinse in clean, cold water.
- Remove any residue with a sponge.
- Stuff the boots with paper towels or boot stretchers to maintain their shape.
- Let the boots dry naturally for 24 hours in a cool, ventilated area.
When drying your UGG boots, avoid direct heat or sunlight. Once your UGG boots are dry, use a suede brush to brush them in a single direction to restore their original appearance.
Remember, sheepskin is a delicate material, which can be damaged if scrubbed aggressively. When cleaning UGG boots, be sure to hand wash only. Do not use the washer.
2. Apply a waterproofing spray
Once your boots are clean and dry, you are ready to waterproof them.
You can use the protector spray included in the shoe care kit, but we recommend the Gear Air suede water repellent because it repels liquid while maximizing breathability.
Take your UGG boots to a well-ventilated area. Hold the bottle six inches away from the boot and spray evenly, wetting the boot but not soaking it. Do the same for the other pair.
Let the damp boots dry naturally for at least 24 hours. DO NOT dry them in direct heat or sunlight. Once dry, you can apply another layer of waterproofing spray, though it’s optional.
If you choose not to add another layer of waterproofing spray, use the soft side of the suede brush to gently brush the boots in one direction. This restores their original look.
3. Reapply waterproofing spray once every season
Every waterproofing spray will eventually wear off over time, so it is recommended to reapply a layer of waterproofing to your UGG boots once every few months, ideally once every season.
Which UGG boots are snow-proof and waterproof?
If you are looking for snow-proof and waterproof UGG boots, consider the Emmett Duck Boots. The pair has waterproof leather uppers with textile lining and sock liners, rated for -32˚C.
For women, consider the UGG Hapsburg Duck Boots. The pair is made with seam-sealed waterproof leather material for enhanced protection from harsh elements.
Alternatively, you can also take your time and look for these UGG boots made for winter. All of the boots included there are able to withstand snow and ice, as well as keep you warm.
Key takeaways
Now you know whether UGG boots are waterproof or not. Although each pair of boots are pretreated when you receive them, there’s no harm in adding a layer of waterproofing.
Like any fine garment, however, suede and sheepskin are delicate. With proper care, UGG boots can last longer, but there is no guarantee to prevent stains from happening.
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