Waterproof leather is treated to resist water but not fully repel it. It can withstand wet conditions and is used in outdoor gear, shoes, and furniture. It can be treated at home to maintain its water resistance and durability.
Waterproof leather is leather that has been treated and processed to resist water. It will not repel water and cannot be considered waterproof, but it can withstand wet conditions. This type of leather is used in things like bad weather gear, hiking and camping gear, etc. When well cared for it can be very durable and long lasting.
Leather is naturally quite absorbent, thanks to the presence of natural pores. As it is processed, much of the organic material is removed, but the absorbency remains, and this trait is actually used in leather processing to ensure that chemicals and dyes are fully absorbed. Once the leather has been initially processed, several finishing options are available, including finishes that will help the leather resist or repel water.
When leather is waterproof, it will not be as prone to absorbing water, although it can still absorb water. It can also be treated to resist mold and mildew so that if it does get wet, it won’t create an attractive environment for fungal growth. When leather gets wet it also tends to harden and crack, and water resistance treatment can help eliminate these problems.
Waterproof leather is not capable of maintaining a perfect seal against water. Someone in waterproof boots standing in a puddle, for example, will likely end up with wet feet. However, waterproofing tends to make leather very stiff, making it non-optimal for many applications. Making waterproof leather a happy medium keeps the leather supple and provides some protection.
Products made from waterproof leather include shoes, boots, gloves, and outerwear, along with collars, saddles, and harnesses. Leather accessories in bags and sacks can also be made from waterproof leather, as can leather products like chairs, sofas, and car seats. Water resistance will keep the product looking good longer and help prevent catastrophes when people spill liquids on the leather.
It is possible to treat leather at home to make it waterproof. In reality, some water-resistant leather products need to be cleaned and treated periodically to remain in good condition, and untreated leather can be treated with a cream or spray that is rubbed into the leather to make it water resistant. This will prolong the life of the leather and keep it supple over time.
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