Being waterproof is a superpower.
Of course, most humans are: we have our skin to thank for that.
While water can’t penetrate through the epidermis, the clothes we wear on top aren’t always so lucky. Even things that are designed to repel water - take wax-sealed coats, for instance - can become compromised if the finish starts to wear thin.
Then there are other fashion accessories - backpacks, umbrellas and outerwear - that could do with a reinforced waterproof shield. And you can get a few more seasons out of tents by replenishing their water-resisting qualities - along with ensuring they are completely dry when packed away, of course.
A specialist spray can help with all of the above. Depending on the type you choose, a quick treatment can be all you need to repair waterproof shields, return your item to factory fresh, or give it an added bonus of becoming waterproof (think Ugg boots).
Two pieces of good news: when it comes to waterproof fabric sprays, there are plenty of options. The second? None of them will set you back much. Using one of these inventions offers a wholly affordable way to protect expensive leather items, as well as pricey bits of kit, meaning it’s an easy insurance policy to prolong your purchase’s longevity. You may be spending money on a spray, but it’s a snip compared to replacing expensive coats, footwear and accessories later down the line.
Below, we reveal the best sprays and treatments to use across a range of fabrics, helping them to repel water, dust, stains and more.
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Scotchgard Heavy Duty Water Shield 400ml
Designed for hard-wearing materials found on outerwear as well as tents and canvas fabrics, Scotchgard provides the ultimate barrier against the elements. One step is all it takes to make your stuff repel water without compromising its breathability, so you won’t wind up a sweaty mess underneath.
The brand also makes a spray for suede and nubuck leather, and a fabric water shield for soft furnishings, sofas and clothing.
Buy now £10.44, Amazon
Liquiproof LABS Premium Protector Spray 250ml
Keep your new suede jacket or leather boots looking in better nick for longer with Liquiproof’s protector spray. The odourless treatment is ideal for those who shy away from using chemicals as it’s been formulated with 98 per cent naturally derived ingredients. The product uses nanotechnology to form an invisible barrier over your precious items, making it much easier to clean off residue like mud, dirt and liquid spills.
Buy now £15.30, Amazon
Barbour Wax Thornproof Dressing
If you’ve dropped a small fortune on a Barbour waxed jacket, the very last thing you’ll want to do is throw it away before its time.
Yet with the right care and storage, they can last for generations. One of its biggest benefits is the wax coating, which not only shuts out the wind but means rain water rolls off your back too. If worn too frequently, this coating can become ineffective, in which case it’s time to top up that special finish.
Barbour’s formula of Wax Thornproof Dressing will keep your treasured jacket looking and performing as new, helping it to last longer. Use it as a first defence on areas that get a lot of wear, like the elbows, or use it to re-dress an entire jacket that needs restoring. Apply with a light touch using a sponge with a hairdryer close to hand - all instructions included.
Buy now £12.95, John Lewis
Out & About waterproof spray
Camping gear is notoriously expensive, so if you can find ways to protect it - well, why wouldn’t you? Give tents, sleeping bags, caravan awnings and more a refreshed waterproof finish with Out & About’s spray. The clear-dry formula is best used in an open space with plenty of ventilation.
Buy now £4.99, Amazon
Nikwax Fabric and Leather Proof Spray-On
The excitement of stepping into a fresh pair of shoes quickly deflates the moment you step out onto a London street. Even if it’s fair weather out, shoes will immediately show some signs of wear. Keep them looking fresh from the sole up with Nikwax’s finishing spray, which adds water repellency to leather or synthetic footwear. It can also be used on Gore-Tex and other accessories like gloves. The water-based solution is odourless and keeps items feeling breathable, all while working its waterproofability magic.
Buy now £8.54, Amazon
Tarrago High Tech Nano Protector 400ml
Cleaning and waterproofing shoes, you’ll wonder how you got by without Tarrago’s nano-protecting spray. The fluorocarbon polymer present in the formula creates an invisible shield upon contact with your chosen fabric; a barrier that becomes stronger with every application.
It can be used on everything from outerwear, camping gear such as backpacks, classic and specialist footwear - even nubuck, leather and suede, both natural and synthetic. Got Gore-Tex to protect? This is just the ticket.
Buy now £13.99, Amazon
Crep Protect Shoe Protector Spray
Give shoes up to five weeks of protection against stains, spills and water with this nano-protecting spray from Crep Protect. Two coats are all you need to form an invisible hydrophobic barrier on your favourite pair of kicks. Just be sure to apply each one in a well-ventilated area, waiting ten minutes between each layer.
Buy now £12.00, Amazon
Nikwax wax cotton-proof spray-on
Specifically formulated for waxed cotton, this spray-on treatment will have raindrops bouncing off your outerwear like magic. The solution not only repels water but it will cut the unnecessary weight of water absorption, keeping you warmer and drier. It’s a good option to try on Barbour and Belstaff apparel.
Buy now £9.49, Amazon
