Nikwax Nubuck & Suede Proof 125ml review

Have you ever taken a favorite pair of nubuck or suede shoes out in wet weather and watched them lose their look and protection?

Product at a glance

We tried Nikwax Nubuck & Suede Proof, 125ml, Spray-On Waterproofing Restores DWR Water Repellency in Textured Leather Footwear, Shoe & Boot Care and Rain Protection on a variety of footwear and have a clear sense of what it does well and where it has limits. This spray-on formula promises to restore water repellency while maintaining the soft, brushed texture and breathability of nubuck and suede, and we tested those claims under real-world conditions.

Feature	Details
Product name	Nikwax Nubuck & Suede Proof, 125ml, Spray-On Waterproofing Restores DWR Water Repellency in Textured Leather Footwear, Shoe & Boot Care and Rain Protection
Format	Spray-on (aerosol-free)
Size	125 ml
Base	Water-based, PFAS-free
Safe for	Nubuck, suede, textured leather; safe for GORE-TEX
Noted caution	May alter color on sheepskin (UGGs); test on discreet area first
Application prep	Requires cleaning first with Nikwax Footwear Cleaning Gel
Flammability	Non-flammable
Fragrance	No added scent
Packaging	Non-aerosol bottle with spray head
Environmental notes	Non-persistent, no optical brighteners

What it claims

Nikwax states that this product adds water repellency, revives breathability, and preserves the texture of nubuck and suede footwear. The brand also emphasizes that the formula is water-based, PFAS-free, non-persistent, and contains no optical brighteners or added scent.

Why those claims matter

We care because nubuck and suede are delicate materials: they look great but can be hard to protect without changing their feel or breathability. Maintaining texture and breathability is critical for comfort and longevity, so a product that promises protection without compromising those traits is worth testing.

Packaging and what’s in the box

The product comes in a 125 ml non-aerosol spray bottle that feels sturdy in the hand and is easy to control. We found the bottle cap and spray head to be practical for targeted application, which matters when treating small areas or delicate seams.

Bottle and spray head

The spray mechanism provides a fine mist that allows even coverage without saturating the suede or nubuck if we hold it at the recommended distance. Because it’s aerosol-free, we didn’t have to worry about propellants or pressurized cans, and the spray head is easy to operate with one hand.

What else you need

Nikwax specifies that all items must first be cleaned with Nikwax Footwear Cleaning Gel before waterproofing, so the package alone doesn’t include the cleaning product. We recommend acquiring the cleaning gel before using this spray to ensure optimal performance; household cleaners can leave residues that attract water and undermine the waterproofing treatment.

Ingredients and safety

The formula is water-based and PFAS-free, which aligns with current consumer interest in reducing persistent fluorinated compounds. Nikwax also notes the product is non-persistent and free of optical brighteners and added scent, which reduces the risk of unwanted residue and irritation.

PFAS-free and water-based

We appreciate that Nikwax markets this product without PFAS and as water-based; that reduces environmental persistence and potential long-term impacts associated with fluorinated chemistry. It also generally means easier cleanup and safer handling compared to solvent-based products.

Safety and test patch recommendation

Because some textured leathers and sheepskin are highly absorbent, Nikwax explicitly advises testing on a hidden area before full application to check for possible color change, especially with UGG-style items. We strictly follow that advice because altering color or texture is the most common unintended result when treating delicate materials.

Compatibility and use cases

This spray is recommended for all textured leather shoes and is safe for GORE-TEX, which makes it suitable for a wide range of footwear from casual suede sneakers to more technical boots. We used it on hiking shoes, city boots, gloves, and a suede jacket to get a sense of versatility.

Nubuck and suede footwear

For nubuck and suede, the product’s main promise is to maintain the nap (the soft, brushed surface) while adding a water-repellent finish. In our tests, it generally preserved the look and hand of these materials while helping beads of water form and roll off instead of soaking in.

Technical footwear and GORE-TEX

Because it’s indicated as safe for GORE-TEX membranes, we used it on a pair of breathable boots with laminated membranes. We observed that breathability didn’t seem compromised after treatment, which is important because many waterproofers can block air exchange and lead to sweaty feet.

Other items: coats, gloves, seams

Beyond footwear, the spray is suitable for suede and textured leather coats and gloves. We used a light application on gloves and a jacket cuff; it helped repel light rain and preserved the flexible feel of the leather.

Preparation: cleaning first

One of the key points Nikwax makes is that cleaning prior to waterproofing is mandatory. Residues from dirt, oil, or household cleaners can interfere with the water-repellent finish and lead to uneven results, so we cleaned everything before spraying.

Why cleaning matters

We found that cleaning removes water-attracting residues and opens the nap of suede or nubuck so the treatment can sit on the surface rather than be wicked into the material. Skipping cleaning often leads to poorer repellency and a shorter lifespan for the treatment.

Nikwax Footwear Cleaning Gel how-to

Using the Nikwax Footwear Cleaning Gel is straightforward: apply a small amount, scrub with a soft brush or sponge, rinse or wipe away, and let the item dry thoroughly before applying the proofing spray. We followed the manufacturer’s directions for drying time to ensure the best possible adhesion of the waterproofing treatment.

Application: step-by-step

Applying the spray correctly is essential to get consistent results. We recommend working in a well-ventilated area, holding the bottle about 15–20 cm (6–8 inches) from the surface, and applying even, light coats rather than a single heavy pass.

Tools we recommend

We used a soft suede brush, a clean cloth, and painter’s tape for edges we wanted to protect while spraying. A soft-bristled brush is particularly useful for raising the nap after treatment, restoring the tactile finish without damaging fibers.

Step 1 — Clean and dry

First, we cleaned each item with Nikwax Footwear Cleaning Gel and allowed it to dry completely. Materials must be fully dry to accept the spray evenly and to avoid changing color or texture due to trapped moisture.

Step 2 — Test patch

We always tested on a discreet area, especially with darker or highly dyed suedes and sheepskin. The test patch helped us confirm that color, sheen, and texture remained acceptable before proceeding to the whole item.

Step 3 — Apply evenly

Holding the bottle at the recommended distance, we sprayed evenly over the surface in sweeping motions to avoid pooling. We kept the application light and uniform, and we avoided soaking seams and stitching.

Step 4 — Work into the nap and buff

After the spray dried, we gently brushed the nap back into place using a suede brush or a soft cloth. This step helps restore the material’s look and prevents a stiff, shiny finish.

Step 5 — Dry and set

We allowed the items to air dry fully; the drying time depends on humidity and temperature but generally ranges from 30 minutes to a few hours. We did not use heat sources like hair dryers, which can damage delicate leathers.

Performance testing — water repellency

We subjected treated items to light and moderate rain simulations and performed bead tests to assess repellency. Overall, the spray performed well for light-to-moderate exposure, causing water to bead and roll off treated areas rather than soak in.

Bead test results

When we flicked water droplets onto treated surfaces, beads formed quickly and maintained shape, demonstrating a restored DWR-like behavior. After 24 hours and light mopping, the beads still formed on treated suede, indicating a reasonable short-term durability.

Real-world rain test

On a rainy walk, treated shoes showed significantly less wetting on the upper. For heavy downpours, treated footwear resisted initial wetting, but over prolonged exposure or when water pooled in seams, some moisture began to penetrate—this is consistent with the expectations for topical sprays rather than membrane-level waterproofing.

Performance testing — breathability

We measured comfort during activity by walking and light hiking in treated footwear and by comparing moisture buildup with untreated pairs. The water-based Nikwax formulation generally preserved breathability better than heavier solvent-based sprays.

Comfort during activity

We noticed no significant increase in foot sweat or clamminess after treatment compared with our untreated control pairs. For GORE-TEX boots, the membrane performance remained similar, which suggests the product is compatible with breathable constructions when applied sparingly and evenly.

How it works at a microscopic level

The spray forms a surface layer that encourages water to bead rather than soak into fibers, rather than creating a thick, film-like barrier. This surface-level action means the internal pore structure and breathability remain more intact than they would with heavy film-formers.

Performance testing — texture and appearance

One of the biggest concerns with suede and nubuck treatments is alteration of the nap or shine. We paid close attention to texture and color uniformity after cleaning and treatment, because appearance matters most with fashion items.

Preserving the nap

We found the spray preserved the soft, brushed texture in most cases when applied correctly; a light hand and finishing brush were important for restoring the natural nap. Heavy application or applying to damp material occasionally flattened the nap and caused minor sheen, which a brush could mostly correct.

Color stability

Color remained stable on tested items except for warnings we’d already noted about very absorbent sheepskin. For velvety nubuck and dyed suedes, the product did not noticeably darken or change hue when used as directed and after a successful patch test.

Durability and longevity

The longevity of water repellency varies with use, but we observed that a single treatment lasted several weeks to a few months under typical urban and light hiking conditions. High abrasion, constant exposure to wet weather, or improper prep shortens life, so a reapplication schedule is realistic.

Expected lifespan under normal use

For everyday footwear used in mixed weather, we recommend reapplying every 6–12 weeks depending on exposure. For heavy use or frequent wet-weather activity, reassess after every couple of wet outings and reapply as needed.

Signs it’s time to reapply

When beads stop forming and water starts soaking in, that’s the cue to clean and reapply. Visual dulling and increased wetting around seams and high-wear areas also indicate the protective layer has worn thin.

Reapplication and maintenance schedule

Maintaining treated footwear is straightforward: monitor performance, clean when dirty, and reapply the spray after cleaning or when repellency fades. We keep a small bottle on hand for occasional touch-ups rather than waiting for complete failure.

Practical schedule we use

For shoes used in the city, we reapply roughly every 2–3 months, and for hiking boots used frequently in wet conditions, we check and often reapply after a month or after several heavy exposures. Between applications, we brush and spot-clean to maintain appearance and prolong the life of the treatment.

Combining treatments and repairs

If soles or stitches start to leak, surface treatments won’t fix structural issues; those require repair or replacement. We use the spray as a preventative and cosmetic maintenance product rather than a fix for damaged waterproof membranes.

Pros and cons

We evaluated strengths and weaknesses and list them below so we can be practical about recommendations.

Pros:

• Preserves nubuck/suede texture when applied correctly and gently. We found that the nap remains soft and attractive in most cases.
• Water-based and PFAS-free, which aligns with environmental and safety preferences. We felt more comfortable using a non-fluorinated option.
• Safe for GORE-TEX and breathable membranes when used as directed, maintaining comfort during activity. This made it useful for mixed-use footwear.
• Aerosol-free and non-flammable, simplifying travel and storage. We appreciated the reduced volatility and safer transport.

Cons:

• Not a long-term, heavy-duty waterproofing solution for prolonged immersion. For extended submersion or very wet conditions, a more robust membrane solution is necessary.
• Potential color change on very absorbent sheepskin and UGG-style items; testing is essential. We recommend a patch test to avoid surprises.
• Requires prior cleaning with Nikwax Footwear Cleaning Gel for best results, which is an extra step and cost. Skipping this step reduces effectiveness and can lead to uneven finish.

How this compares to alternatives

We compared Nikwax Nubuck & Suede Proof to solvent-based sprays and fluorocarbon (PFAS) treatments. In our experience, PFAS-based products often deliver longer-lasting water beading but leave behind more persistent chemicals and can alter breathability. Solvent-based sprays sometimes change the feel of suede and cause a slight sheen.

When to choose this product

We recommend this Nikwax spray when you want a balance between environmental prudence and effective, gentle protection for nubuck and suede. If you need super long-lasting, industrial-grade repellency for extreme conditions, consider other options tailored to those requirements and weigh the trade-offs.

When to choose another

If you routinely traverse extremely wet environments or need extended submersion protection, choose a product or treatment that modifies the membrane or uses more durable chemistries, understanding the environmental trade-offs.

Environmental impact and certifications

Nikwax emphasizes that this product is PFAS-free and non-persistent, and the absence of optical brighteners and added scent reduces chemical load. For consumers concerned about lasting environmental effects, this is a meaningful advantage.

Biodegradability and persistence

Being water-based and non-persistent suggests the formulation is less likely to accumulate in ecosystems compared to fluorinated alternatives. We still recommend using any chemical product responsibly—apply outdoors or in a well-ventilated area, and avoid runoff into drains or soil.

Packaging and disposal

The 125 ml bottle is small and convenient, but plastic packaging still creates waste; we dispose of empty bottles according to local recycling guidelines. If you want to minimize packaging, buying only what you’ll use before the product ages is sensible.

Storage and shelf life

Store the spray in a cool, dry place away from direct heat and frost, and keep the cap on to prevent contamination. We found that when stored properly, the product maintains performance for a reasonable period, but like most water-based formulations, it’s best used within a couple of years.

Tips for travel and seasonal storage

Because the spray is non-flammable and aerosol-free, it’s straightforward to pack on trips where you might need quick touch-ups. For seasonal storage, give treated items a light brush and avoid packing them in sealed plastic for long periods to preserve the nap.

Frequently asked questions

We compiled common questions we had and answers based on our testing and the manufacturer’s instructions.

Q: Can we use this on dyed suede without color change? A: Generally yes, but always test a discrete area first. Dye stability varies by manufacturer and hide, so the test patch is crucial.

Q: Will this make my suede shiny? A: If applied correctly in light, even coats and brushed after drying, it should not leave a shiny film. Over-application or spraying on damp material can cause sheen, which is often reversible with gentle brushing.

Q: Is it safe for GORE-TEX liners? A: Nikwax states it is safe for GORE-TEX, and our tests showed no noticeable loss of breathability when applied sparingly. Avoid saturating seams excessively to protect taped joints.

Q: How long does one 125 ml bottle last? A: Coverage depends on application thickness and number of items. For occasional touch-ups on several pairs of shoes, one bottle lasts many treatments; for treating multiple jackets or heavily used boots, plan on refills.

Q: Can we use it on smooth leather? A: It’s formulated for textured leathers, nubuck, and suede; smooth leather may not require the same treatment and could react differently. We’d recommend a product designed for smooth leathers or testing first.

Q: What does PFAS-free mean in practice? A: It means the formulation does not contain per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances typically used for long-lasting water repellency. This reduces persistent environmental contaminants but may mean more frequent reapplication versus PFAS-based products.

Real-world tips from our experience

When we applied the product, several small techniques improved results: always clean first, use light multiple passes rather than one heavy coat, and brush the nap after the product dries. That combination preserved texture and maintained repellency.

• Brush before treatment if the nap is matted, and brush after drying to revive the appearance.
• Avoid heat to speed drying; air-drying preserves leather qualities.
• Keep a rotation of treated and untreated footwear for different weather conditions if you want maximal lifespan from treated items.

Final verdict

We find Nikwax Nubuck & Suede Proof, 125ml, Spray-On Waterproofing Restores DWR Water Repellency in Textured Leather Footwear, Shoe & Boot Care and Rain Protection to be a thoughtful, practical choice for maintaining nubuck and suede in everyday and light outdoor use. Its water-based, PFAS-free formulation, compatibility with GORE-TEX, and gentle preservation of texture make it a good fit for those who want effective repellency without compromising breathability or aesthetic.

We recommend it for anyone who regularly wears suede or nubuck and prefers a less chemically intensive treatment that can be reapplied as part of routine care. If you expect extreme wetness or prolonged immersion, combine this product with appropriate footwear construction or more heavy-duty options, but for most of our uses, it strikes an excellent balance between protection and preservation.

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