If you just spent a ton of money on new Sperry topsiders, you might as well spend a couple more bucks to make sure you get the most out of them. Waterproofing your boat shoes is without a doubt the most important thing you can do to prolong their life.

Why waterproof?

Most shoes are made of porous materials, like leather, for example. Porous materials have microscopic holes that tend to absorb moisture. Moisture can drastically decrease the longevity of your shoes. As? you could ask. Once porous materials have absorbed water, it is very difficult for them to get rid of it. Problems arise with changes in temperature and sunlight. Changes in temperature and sunlight will cause the water contained within the pores of the shoes to expand and contract. This leads to cracks in the materials along the lines of stress. Trust me, you don’t want your shoes to look like the leather interior of a tattooed sports car from the ’80s.

How to protect your shoes

I suggest buying a waterproofing spray and applying it to your shoes IMMEDIATELY after you buy them. Yes, that means before you put your feet in them. I know that I know. Finish Line sales people have tried to sell you these things before. But guess that? In fact, it works.

Water repellents basically work by clogging the pores of the materials that the shoes are made of. Of course, when the water can’t get into the pores of your shoes, there is no way for the pores of your shoes to expand and contract. That means your new Sperry roofs will be stronger and last much longer than if they hadn’t been waterproofed.

Where to buy waterproofing?

Online, online, ONLINE! Because? Because it is less expensive.

Buy a couple of cans to ensure you always have extra around the house in case of an impulse buy of boat shoes.

How to waterproof shoes

Simple. Start shopping by taking your shoes out of their box. I usually make sure mine aren’t tied up, not a big deal though. Next, find a well-ventilated area. Lay down newspapers, tarps, notebooks, or whatever to make sure you don’t stain the area around where you’re spraying. Hold can of waterproofing spray 8-12 inches from shoes and spray! Be generous, but make sure you don’t get the shoe wet. In fact, plan on at least 2 layers. Be sure to let your shoes dry completely between coats; it should take about 10-15 minutes.

The entire waterproofing process should only take about 40 minutes and cost you less than $5. That’s quite a small investment knowing that it can increase the life of your Sperry Topsiders by up to a few months and sometimes even longer!