How to Waterproof UGG Boots | Step-by-Step Guide

UGG boots are unisex boots made of sheepskin and they’re very comfortable to wear. My wife recently got a pair of UGG boots, and since we’re living in Ireland at the moment, we had to look for ways to make her UGGs waterproof — or, at least, try to.

Of course, there are also ready-made waterproof UGGs on the market, but we bought the standard version.

If you’re also planning to make your UGG boots waterproof, read this guide to learn how we did it and what products we used.

Are UGG Boots Waterproof?

Not all Ugg Boots are waterproof. They’re usually made from sheepskin which can absorb water pretty easily. However, Ugg does make some boots that are specifically designed to be waterproof.

You’d have to look for those. But remember, even for those, you still need to take care of them to keep them nice and dry.

How Can I Make My UGG Boots Waterproof?

Step 1: Clean your UGG Boots

Make sure your UGG boots are clean before you begin the waterproofing process. This can be done using a gentle suede cleaner.

We cleaned the boots with the UGG Cleaner and Conditioner.

Step 2: Apply a Coat of Waterproofing Spray

The best product to waterproof your UGG boots is the Stain & Water Repellent Spray from UGG. This spray protects your boots, and the best part is that it’s non-toxic and biodegradable.

Alternatively, you can use a waterproofing spray specifically designed for suede or sheepskin. For more info, check out Bustle’s guide on The 3 Best Waterproofing Spray For UGGs.

Hold the can about six inches away from the boots and spray them evenly, making sure to cover all areas.

Make sure to apply enough spray on the area where the sole and the boot surface come into contact.

This will prevent water from seeping in through the seams.

Step 3: Let the Waterproofing Coat Dry

Once you’ve sprayed your boots, let them dry naturally for at least 24 hours.

Don’t use any heat source, such as a hairdryer to dry your boots.

Step 5: Apply a Second Coat of Waterproofing Spray

Apply a second coat of waterproofing spray on your UGG boots.

Take your boots to a well-ventilated place and let them air dry overnight.

The next morning, you can wear your waterproof UGGs without any problems.

As UGG explains:

You’ll want to coat your uggs 2-3 times with the spray at least one hour before wearing them for the first time. This will give your uggs enough to absorb the waterproofing spray and give you the confidence to wear them outside.

To keep your boots waterproof, you’ll need to repeat this process regularly, especially if you wear your boots often.

Uggs Were Not Designed With Harsh Conditions in Mind

Keep in mind that UGGs were primarily designed for comfort and warmth. They were not intended for walking through puddles, so please try to avoid intentionally stepping into puddles or hiking in UGGs.

UGGs are made of suede leather, which is soft, smooth, and flexible. But the main disadvantage is that suede isn’t waterproof and tends to stain quite easily.

Applying a generous coat of waterproofing spray not only helps make your boots waterproof but also protects them against stains.

Alternative solution: Buy Weatherproof UGG Boots

Instead of trying to make your UGG boots waterproof, you can buy a pair of weatherproof UGGs.

The company has an entire collection of cold-weather boots. You can buy rain boots and weatherproof boots that will keep your feet warm when it’s raining.

⇒ Browse more rain boots and weatherproof options from UGG.

Do Waterproof Uggs Need to Be Treated?

UGG boots are already pretreated to repel water and other liquids. However, keep in mind that UGGs are not meant for extended wear in rain or snow.

Extended exposure to these conditions will eventually lead to your boots getting wet.

The initial waterproof coat will wear off over time, so you’ll need to treat your UGGs with water-repellent sprays every few months.

Are Waterproof Uggs Really Waterproof?

The UGG Classic II boots are waterproof to a certain extent. These boots can repel moisture, water, and other liquids, helping them stay dry and keep stains at bay.

However, the Classic II boots weren’t designed for use in heavy rain or snow.

As long as you’re just wearing your boots to go to the nearby shop, or to and from your car, you should be fine. But if it’s raining cats and dogs, leave your UGGs at home and opt for a pair of rubber boots instead.

UGG Classic II boots can repel moisture for up to 6 months of wear.

Over time, the water-repellent coat wears off, and you’ll need to apply a new coat of waterproofing spray.

| Read more: Are Mukluks Waterproof?

Can I Wear Uggs in the Rain?

It is not recommended to wear UGGs in the rain. The boots should be okay if a few drops of water splash on them, but water will soak through if you walk through the rain for more than 5 minutes.

The best solution is to simply wear a pair of waterproof boots when it rains.

UGG shoes are not fully waterproof. Rain and snow will seep through after a few minutes of direct exposure.

Can I Wear My Uggs Out in the Snow?

You can wear your UGGs when it’s snowing lightly and you don’t have to walk through inches of snow. However, it is not recommended to wear UGGs when hiking or during a blizzard.

UGG boots are suitable for fall and winter seasons, but they are not designed to be snow boots.

Avoid wearing UGGs in rain or snow as the shoes may quickly become ruined when wet.

How Long Do Ugg Boots Last?

Your UGGs can last you 3-4 years without any problems if you take proper care of them.

If you avoid getting them wet, don’t wear them every day, and use a leather reconditioning spray every few months, you can expect your UGGs to last for at least 3 years.

Of course, if you wear your UGGs on a semi-daily basis and expose them to bad weather conditions, then expect your boots to last 1-2 years.

Check out UGG’s handy guide on how to take care of your boots.

Can I Put My Uggs in the Washing Machine?

It is not recommended to clean your UGGs in the washing machine. UGG footwear is made of sheepskin or leather, and machine washing or dry cleaning will only ruin the leather.

Instead, use a special UGG cleaner and conditioner solution to restore your boots if necessary

Conclusion

UGGs are not waterproof, but you can make your boots waterproof to a certain extent. Apply a generous coat of waterproofing spray on your UGG boots, and let them dry for 30 minutes. Then apply a second coat of water-repellent spray.

Wearing your UGGs in bad weather conditions is not recommended. Avoid getting your UGGs wet in the first place and they should last you for years.

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