The best waterproofing spray gives you the ability to make each fishing trip more comfortable than the last. Even when you check weather reports, there’s no way to accurately predict whether you’ll be caught in a torrential downpour or not. With the proper spray, you’ll not only be able to make yourself waterproof but your equipment as well.
The following five sprays are highly recommended for all types of activities and you’ll find yourself using them whether you’re fishing or not.
Best Waterproofing Spray Reviews
1. Scotchgard Outdoor Water Shield
In a single can, you’ll have 10.5oz of spray to use to your heart’s content. Scotchgard is one of the world’s premier brands for fabric treatments, which is why this spray is highly recommended for all of your outdoor gear. Even for campers, it’s a fantastic treatment for your tent, backpack, and other types of hiking gear.
Product Highlights
The main characteristics of the Scotchgard Outdoor Water Shield include:
- One Coat Coverage
The largest-selling point of this spray is the fact that you’ll only need a single coat to have thorough waterproofing. It’s advertised as a heavy-duty water shield, which helps to save you time and effort when you’re getting your gear ready for the elements. Also, you won’t have to worry about inhaling fumes for longer than a few minutes, at most.
- Maintains Breathability
If you intend on spraying this formula on your clothing, you’ll be glad to know it is specially designed to maintain the breathability of the fabric. It won’t feel like you’re wearing an extra layer of material, which makes it ideal for your favorite fishing clothes and gear.
- Constant Moisture Protection
Regardless if you are out on a fishing trip or hike or if your belongings are stowed away in storage, you’ll be glad to know the Scotchgard Outdoor Water Shield maintains protection anywhere. Every type of material will be sufficiently protected from all types of moisture thanks to its durable water barrier.
- Quick Drying
Instead of having to wait several hours before you can wear your gear or take your tent to the campsite, this spray dries far faster than with other brands. As it dries, you’ll also notice the smell of the solution fades because it is designed to dry odorless.
- Multipurpose
Multiple items around your home where you can use this waterproof spray on, ranging from patio furniture to boat covers. As it dries odorless, it is highly recommended for hunting and fishing clothing as well.
- Fabric-Friendly
There are plenty of fabrics that this spray is safe to use on, including cotton, suede, leather, polypropylene, nylon, and polyester.
- Plenty of Coverage
With a single can, you should be able to protect up to 60 sq. ft. of light nylon and up to 20 sq. ft. of heavier fabrics.
- Seasonal Application
Instead of having to reapply the solution constantly to your gear after they’ve been rained on, this spray is designed to hold up its protection over an entire season. You should only worry about protecting your gear once yearly.
Pros:
- Extremely easy to apply
- Stain-resistant
- Keeps the fabric in good shape
- Doesn’t leave any residue
Cons:
- Produces overwhelming fumes
- May require two treatments
- May require multiple cans
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2. Cobbler’s Choice All-Natural Waterproofing Spray
Designed specifically for leather goods, this waterproofing spray is created from all-natural ingredients. This is what makes it a better alternative to other types of sprays which may produce noxious fumes when sprayed. Featuring carnauba wax for added protection, this is likely one of the better sprays to consider for leather shoes, purses, and more.
Product Highlights
The main features of the Cobbler’s Choice All-Natural Waterproofing Spray include:
- All-Natural
As discussed earlier, this spray is made from fully natural ingredients, including water infused with carnauba wax. These two items together not only create a protective finish but also help to nourish the leather on your belongings. Also, as it is natural, it is kid- and animal-friendly.
- Recommended for Leather and Suede
If you’re specifically looking for a leather protectant, this spray is a phenomenal choice as it is specifically formulated to be safe for both suede and leather. With that said, it doesn’t make it as useful as the other formulas on this list which are recommended for a variety of materials.
- Easy to Use
Similar to the Scotchgard spray, this spray is also quite easy to apply as it only requires three basic steps. First, you will need to clean the surface of the product you are protecting and then spray until it is fully coated. Allow up to one hour for drying time in-between applications.
- Multiple Applications
Another concerning factor of the Cobbler’s Choice All-Natural Waterproofing Spray is that it requires multiple coats to have sufficient water protection. On average, you may have to apply up to three coats, which can add up to three hours in drying time.
Pros:
- Has a pleasant smell
- Ideal for kid’s shoes
- Protects leather shoes well
Cons:
- Will stain nubuck boots
- Will stain if held close to shoes
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3. Collonil Carbon Pro Waterproofing Spray
Having professional waterproofing at your disposal is essential for people who enjoy spending a lot of time outdoors. Instead of relying on generic formulas which offer moderate protection from moisture, this formula is designed for heavy-duty use. Also, it helps to maintain the breathability of fabrics when applied.
Product Highlights
The most interesting features of the Collonil Carbon Pro Waterproofing Spray include:
- Two Bottle Sizes
When you place your order, you can opt for either a 300ml bottle or a 400ml container, depending on how much waterproofing spray you need. This is far more advantageous than having to buy two separate bottles if you need a little extra formula for protecting your belongings.
- Carbon Fiber Technology
With the specialized carbon-fiber technology, this spray will create an extra membrane with superior pearling effects which will help prevent moisture from penetrating fabrics. It is also highly recommended for repelling plenty of dirt, stains, and spills.
- Maintains Breathability
Although this spray creates a waterproof membrane, it doesn’t take away from the breathability of the products you’re spraying it on. This is what makes it highly recommended for hiking shoes, tents, and even your rain jackets.
- Highly Compatible
Numerous fabrics are compatible with this spray so you won’t have to worry about irreparable damage, such as staining. It works with basic materials such as polyester, suede, leather, and nylon, but also Sympatex and Gore-Tex. You can use it on numerous products in your closet, including backpacks, handbags, and fishing gear.
- German Made
Out of all of the different waterproofing sprays on the market, Collonil Carbon Pro Waterproofing Spray is one of the most popular because it is designed by German engineers with a specialty in leather care and material protection.
- Easy Application
Compared to most other waterproofing sprays, the application for this formula is simpler and takes far less time. Each coat only needs 25 minutes to dry before you can apply a second coat. Depending on the material you’re using it on, the drying time could be even shorter.
Pros:
- Doesn’t discolor fabrics
- Easily makes water bead
- May require only two coats
Cons:
- Works similarly to less expensive sprays
- Produces intense fumes
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4. Apple Brand Garde Rain and Stain Repellent
As another front runner in the waterproofing market, the Apple Brand Garde Rain and Stain Repellent is a tough competitor to beat.
Designed to protect a variety of leather goods from rain damage and staining, you can easily treat your shoes and your backpack when you’re heading out into rainy conditions. This spray is highly recommended if you want to protect your items from sweat, oil, wine, and more.
Product Highlights
The most interesting features of the Apple Brand Garde Rain and Stain Repellent include:
- Plenty of Protection
There is a multitude of things this spray is designed to protect your belongings from, aside from rain. It helps to prevent salt stains, water spots, body oil, perspiration, wine, coffee, and more. If you’re looking for an all-inclusive protectant, this is highly recommended.
- No-Residue Formula
With some waterproofing sprays, you’ll find they leave some type of sticky residue behind. They may also alter the color of the item you’re spraying it on, leading to irreversible staining.
With this solution, it is designed to dry down entirely so that there isn’t any noticeable residue left behind. After the application is complete, the overall appearance of your leather goods will remain unchanged.
- Recommended for Leather
Similar to the all-natural waterproofing spray on this list, this formula is recommended for leather only. This can be ideal for people who own leather hiking boots and jackets, but it isn’t recommended for any other materials. It could cause staining if you opt to use it on anything other than leather.
You may also want to note that this is not a spray to be used on pebbled leather as it will completely alter the look and feel of the material. It should only be used on smooth leather.
Pros:
- Useful for leather bags
- Easy to use
- Recommended for hard leather
Cons:
- Has a strong smell
- May change the color of the material
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5. Crep Protect Rain and Stain Shoe Protection Spray
If you’re a sneakerhead or collector, you’ve likely heard of Crep Protect at one point or another. Currently rated as one of the best protectants for shoes, it’s highly recommended for nubuck, canvas, or suede shoes that need extra rain protection. In a single can, you’ll receive 200ml of product.
Product Highlights
The main features of Crep Protect Rain and Stain Shoe Protection include:
- Specialized Hydrophobic Spray
Designed to repel all types of moisture, this hydrophobic spray will repel stains as well. That makes it highly recommended for hiking boots and other products exposed to dirt and grime constantly.
- Moderate Compatibility
When compared to other treatment sprays on the market, this formula isn’t the best for all materials. However, it is highly recommended for canvas and linen shoes as well as suede and nubuck.
- Easy Application
If you’re not interested in investing in a spray which takes an exorbitant amount of time to dry, this is one of the better formulas to consider. It’s incredibly easy to apply and may take two coats only for optimal water and stain protection.
- Nanotechnology
The most interesting aspect of Crep Protect Rain and Stain Shoe Protection is that it uses nanotechnology to create an invisible barrier to protect your belongings from moisture. When applied correctly, you won’t even be able to tell that the shoes are protected as it dries odorless and without a gummy residue.
- Two-Week Protection
On average, the nanotechnology barrier will last up to two weeks, so you have to consider reapplying the solution afterward.
Pros:
- Doesn’t stain
- Recommended for work boots
Cons:
- Still allows oils to stain
- May look greasy with too many applications
- Has a poorly designed spray nozzle
- May make clear plastic cloudy
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Buyer’s Guide
When choosing the perfect waterproofing spray, you’ll want to make sure you’re choosing the perfect formula since it can make a large difference in the longevity of your belongings. Since you’re relying on the spray to keep you dry in wet conditions, you’ll want to make sure you’re opting for a high-quality product. We’ve compiled a list of the most important things to look out for when choosing the ideal protectant.
1. Material Compatibility
Before you invest in a single formula, it is important to choose one that is versatile and compatible with numerous materials. You don’t want to worry about buying multiple cans of different products for all of your goods. The product you choose should work on anything from cotton to Gore-Tex without the chance of staining.
It is also important to keep an eye out for formulas recommended for clothing and outdoor gear. Otherwise, you may be stuck with a product recommended for items you won’t wear on your skin and that also don’t have enough protection for your backpack or tents.
2. Easy Application
You’re likely looking to waterproof your expensive belongings, which means you’ll want a spray which is easy to apply and is unlikely to damage the material.
Although it is still recommended for you to do a patch test before applying the spray to the entirety of the item, it should be easy for you to do so without a professional. That is because most waterproofing sprays have a list of directions that you should follow for an easy application.
Another essential aspect is that the spray shouldn’t take a lot of time to dry. Some sprays recommend waiting for one to two hours in between coats, whereas others can take as long as four hours to dry.
If you’re preparing your fishing gear in advance, you have a little more wiggle room for drying time, but you’ll also want to choose a convenient formula if you’re in a bind.
3. Reapplication
Unfortunately, waterproofing sprays create a membrane which will wear down over time. This is especially true if you are constantly wiping down your shoes or heading out into wet weather where the membrane will be worn away. With that said, you can find a waterproofing spray which lasts longer than two weeks in-between applications.
Some of the higher quality sprays on the market can last several months before needing additional applications, which is your best option as it saves time and effort. You’ll also find products requiring infrequent reapplications and offering the best water and stain protection.
4. Protection
First, you’ll want to make sure you choose a spray designed to repel water and moisture. However, it’s also important that the product protects your belongings from staining. That is especially true for patio furniture, fishing gear, and hunting equipment.
More often than not, these formulas will protect your belongings from oil and highly pigmented fluids, such as wine.
5. Finish
There’s nothing more frustrating than using a waterproofing spray which alters the appearance of the materials it is used on. Many have found, for example, that some sprays can turn white fabrics yellow and others will simply stain the leather.
Ideally, the overall finish of the spray shouldn’t change the color or texture of your belongings. Most of the higher quality solutions are formulated to create an invisible barrier that doesn’t cause cloudiness or discoloration.
They also won’t leave an unappealing residue behind which will cause dirt and grime to stick to the material. After application, the appearance of your belongings should remain unchanged.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How to Use Waterproofing Spray?
Most waterproofing sprays work similarly, even though every manufacturer has their list of application methods. It is highly recommended you refer to the specific instructions for the spray you own, as it can help to avoid damage with different materials. Otherwise, you can follow these simple steps to know how to use the spray.
- Step #1: First, you’ll want to do a patch test which is when you spray a small and discreet area of the product you’re treating to determine if any discoloration occurs. Wait for the recommended drying time before treating the entirety of your products.
- Step #2: Using a soft cloth, remove any traces of dirt and grime from the surface of the item you’re treating. This will allow you to create a more even coat to prevent water penetration.
- Step #3: Holding the aerosol can approximately six inches away from the surface of the material, begin spraying in long and consistent bursts. Be sure not to stay in one area for too long, as you’ll want a full even coat.
- Step #4: Allow up to four hours for the first coat of the product to dry before repeating the application process.
2. What Can You Treat with Waterproofing Spray?
You can treat multiple things with waterproofing spray, which is what makes it one of the best items to have in your closet. Not only can you protect your shoes and handbags, but you can also treat outdoor equipment such as barbecue covers and patio furniture.
It is important to note, though, that not every spray is made the same. Thus, before treating anything you own, ensure the spray you’ve chosen is compatible with the material you’re working with. If you are looking to treat expensive handbags, for example, you’ll want to opt for a solution recommended by the designer and has been tested by previous customers.
3. How to Remove Fabric Waterproofing Spray?
To remove fabric waterproofing spray all you need is a large container of warm water and a detergent of your choice. It’s highly recommended you wash off any remaining waterproofing before reapplying the solution for a fresh coat.
You can use your household bathtub for this process, though it’s important you also take the time to clean the tub afterward. Soak your belongings in warm water and then using a brush, scrub the detergent into the fabric.
After you’re finished, allow the item to dry and test the surface to see if it is still resistant to water. If so, repeat the scrubbing process until the membrane has been removed.
If you intend on removing your waterproof coating in the future, make sure to avoid sprays resistant to washing or need to be washed to be activated.
4. Can You Use Tent Waterproofing Spray on Clothes?
Depending on the brand you choose, there is the possibility to use a tent waterproofing spray on clothing. All you have to do is read the label on the canister to ensure it is skin-safe. Most of the higher quality products are so versatile that you can use them on household belongings and clothing alike.
5. What Is the Best Waterproof Shoes Spray?
The best waterproof shoes spray is a formula recommended for the material of your shoes, protects them from moisture and staining, and easy to clean. The formula should also be simple to apply and should last multiple months before having to be reapplied.
Our Final Recommendation
Our recommendation for the best waterproofing spray is surely Scotchgard Outdoor Water Shield, though you may need more than one can for all of your fishing gear. With a one-coat application, you can protect everything sufficiently, and the spray is highly recommended for gear and clothing alike. By creating a breathable membrane which dries odorless and offers optimal protection, it’s simply the best option.