Can My Leather Clarks Get Wet? Here's What You Need to Know

From classic Desert Boots to stylish Wallabees, Clarks offers a wide range of leather footwear to suit a variety of tastes and occasions. Clarks shoes have long been a favorite choice among consumers for their style, comfort, and durability. The importance of taking good care of these high-quality Clarks shoes cannot be overstated. One common concern among Clarks enthusiasts is whether their leather shoes can be wet. Through this comprehensive guide, we will provide tips for maintaining leather Clarks shoes in good condition and answer the question, “Can My Leather Clarks Get Wet?”

Can my leather Clarks get wet?

It is true that leather Clarks can become wet, When leather is exposed to water, it may lose its natural oils, resulting in stiffness and cracking, which can negatively impact its durability. If you are going to let your Clarks dry naturally, away from direct heat sources, be sure to stuff them with newspaper and use a shoe tree to maintain their shape while they dry. When they are completely dry, apply leather conditioner to restore suppleness and maintain longevity. Furthermore, a waterproof spray can be used to protect your Clarks from water damage. To maintain their appearance and durability, you should avoid wearing them in heavy rain or wet conditions when possible.

Understanding Leather and Water

Properties of leather

Throughout history, leather has been a popular material for footwear because of its durability, flexibility, and timeless appeal. Because leather is porous and absorbs and releases moisture, it has the benefit of being breathable and comfortable.

How water affects leather

Even though leather is a robust material, it cannot withstand extreme moisture. Leather may suffer from:

Potential for staining – The surface of leather may become discolored or darkened as a result of water exposure.
Deformation and weakening of the material – The prolonged exposure to water can result in leather becoming misshapen, losing its strength, and eventually cracking.

Possible mold and mildew growth –When leather becomes wet, mold and mildew can grow, which can cause unpleasant odors and further damage the leather.

Water resistance of different leather types

Depending on the type of leather used, Clarks shoes will have a different level of water resistance:

Full-grain leather – The tight grain structure of this high-quality leather makes it relatively water-resistant, but excessive moisture can still damage it.

Top-grain leather – Moisture exposure can still cause damage to the leather, despite its resistance to stains and water.
Split leather – The loose grain structure of this type of leather makes it more susceptible to water damage.
Nubuck and suede – Due to their soft, fuzzy surface, these types of leather are particularly sensitive to water.

Tips to Protect Your Leather Clarks from Water Damage

Water-repellent treatments

You can protect your Clarks from water damage by applying water-repellent treatments:

Sprays and waxes – These products create a protective barrier on the leather surface, helping to repel water and prevent stains.

How to apply them properly – Before applying the product, make sure your shoes are clean and dry according to the instructions provided by the manufacturer.

General shoe care

In order to ensure that your Clarks remain in top condition, you should maintain them as follows:

Proper storage –Store your shoes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent fading and moisture damage.

Regular cleaning and conditioning –Keep your leather shoes supple and crack-free by cleaning them regularly with a leather cleaner and applying a leather conditioner

Rotating your shoes –When you wear your Clarks every day, it can cause them to wear out faster. Rotating your shoes allows them to air out and regain their shape.

What to do if your Clarks get wet

To minimize damage to your leather Clarks, you should act promptly if they become wet:

Drying techniques – Allow the shoes to air dry naturally away from direct heat sources, as high heat can cause leather to shrink and crack. Wipe the excess water off with a soft cloth or towel. Stuff the shoes with absorbent paper or a shoe tree to help maintain their shape and absorb moisture.
Restoring shape and color – Once your shoes are thoroughly dried, use a soft brush to restore the leather’s texture. Use a leather conditioner to replenish the leather’s natural oils and a color polish if needed to restore the color.
Preventing mold and mildew – In order to prevent mold and mildew from growing on your Clarks, make sure they have been thoroughly dried before storing them. If any signs of mold or mildew appear, clean the shoes with a mild leather cleaner, let them air dry completely, and then store them in a well-ventilated area.

Conclusion

In conclusion, leather Clarks shoes can get wet, but it is imperative to protect them from excessive moisture in order to maintain their appearance and longevity. It is imperative to choose the right water-repellent treatment for your shoes since different types of leather have different levels of water resistance. You can also prevent damage to your shoes from water exposure by performing regular cleaning and conditioning, rotating your shoes, and storing them correctly. Whenever your Clarks become wet, you should dry them properly to prevent mold and mildew growth, and you can restore their shape and texture by using leather conditioner and color polish.