5 Recommended Waterproof Sprays | Explaining the Products a Shoe Fitter Actually Uses
“Which waterproof spray should I actually buy?”
This is a question I was asked frequently once the rainy season arrived. When you open Amazon, a variety of products are lined up, but no matter how many reviews you read, it is difficult to see which one is right for you.
In reality, waterproof sprays have their strengths and weaknesses. The product suitable for someone who doesn't want to dirty their white sneakers is different from one for someone who wants to maintain the performance of Gore-Tex, or someone who wants to make their child's school shoes resistant to dirt.
I have worked in the footwear industry for over 20 years, and for 17 years I was in charge of fitting and customer service at a specialty shoe store. I am currently involved in sales and product planning at a shoe manufacturer, but I still use waterproof spray on a daily basis.
Based on my experience in the field, if you are unsure, I believe you won't go far wrong if you start with Columbus Amedas. On the other hand, for those who want to keep their white sneakers clean or prioritize anti-fouling performance, TARRAGO High Tech Nano Protector is also a very attractive option.
In this article, I will explain the common pitfalls in choosing a waterproof spray, the differences between fluorine-based and silicone-based products, 5 recommendations from a shoe fitter, and how to use them for different purposes, incorporating my own real-life experiences.
*This article contains advertisements (affiliate links). As an Amazon Associate, HAYA @ Shoe Fitter earns income from qualifying purchases.
The Conclusion of This Article
If you are going to choose just one, I recommend Columbus Amedas. It is easy to use on almost all shoes, including leather shoes, sneakers, Gore-Tex, and children's shoes, and it is easy to choose without any special knowledge. That is the only reason.
For those who want to keep wearing white sneakers cleanly and also value anti-fouling performance, I also recommend TARRAGO High Tech Nano Protector. I believe that just by knowing these two products, the possibility of failing in your choice of waterproof spray will be greatly reduced.
Common Patterns of Failure in Choosing Waterproof Spray
When I was at a specialty shoe store, most of the people who asked, “Which one should I buy?” were choosing and using them somewhat aimlessly. All waterproof sprays look similar, making it hard to grasp the criteria for selection. As a result, this often led to impressions like “it’s not as effective as I thought” or “it’s somehow hard to use.”
I will introduce a few failure patterns I have often seen.
Choosing based solely on low price
It’s not that expensive is always better, but if you choose based only on low price, problems such as small capacity, limited usable materials, and weak water repellency are more likely to occur. If you want to care for your daily commuting shoes or your family's shoes all at once, it may end up being poor value for money. Deciding “what you will use it for” first is the starting point for how to choose.
Not knowing the difference between fluorine-based and silicone-based
This is the most common cause of failure. Waterproof sprays are broadly divided into two types: fluorine-based and silicone-based, but it is not a question of which is superior; their purposes are different. In most cases, fluorine-based is suitable for shoes. This is because it easily retains breathability and is compatible with leather shoes, sneakers, and Gore-Tex. Silicone-based products show their true value with umbrellas, rain boots, and rainwear, but there are materials that can lose breathability or become prone to stuffiness when used on shoes.
Tending to overlook anti-fouling performance
Because it is called “waterproof spray,” it is easy to imagine only rain protection, but the fact that it becomes resistant to dirt is also a major benefit. Especially for white sneakers, mesh sneakers, and children's shoes, there is a point to spraying them even on days other than rainy days. I myself often use it for the purpose of “making them resistant to dirt” rather than for waterproofing.
Fluorine-based or silicone-based, which is better in the end?
For shoes, I basically recommend fluorine-based. The reasons are that it is easy to retain breathability, it is difficult to change the texture of the leather, and it is compatible with mesh materials and Gore-Tex. Having been involved with shoes for over 20 years, the one I still keep in my entryway is the fluorine-based Amedas. I have settled on this in the end.
Silicone-based sprays have extremely strong water repellency and are suitable for umbrellas, rain boots, and rainwear. However, I do not actively choose them for shoes because, depending on the material, they can make the shoes prone to stuffiness or change their texture.
1st Place: Columbus Amedas | If you're unsure, choose this
If someone asks me, 'Which one should I buy in the end?', I recommend Amedas first. This is because most people will be satisfied with this one.
I have been using many different waterproof sprays for over 20 years, and Amedas is the one I still keep in my entryway. It is widely compatible with leather shoes, sneakers, Gore-Tex, children's shoes, and commuting shoes, and can be used not only for rain protection but also for stain protection. Since it is fluorine-based, it is less likely to impair breathability, and you can use it with peace of mind, especially with Gore-Tex.
For white sneakers, children's shoes, and mesh material shoes, I often spray them more for the purpose of preventing stains than for waterproofing, and Amedas functions sufficiently for that purpose as well.
Recommended for these people
People buying a waterproof spray for the first time, people who want to get by with just one bottle, people who want to take care of Gore-Tex, and people who want to use it on children's shoes.
2nd Place: TARRAGO High Tech Nano Protector | Recommended for white sneaker lovers
While it may not be as well-known as Amedas, it is a product highly regarded among sneaker enthusiasts. Its greatest appeal is its high stain-resistance performance, and I think you can easily feel the difference with white sneakers, mesh materials, and knit materials.
The situation where I choose Tarrago is when I wear white sneakers. I have confidence in it for situations where I want to use it for stain protection rather than rain protection. It also works well with Gore-Tex and waterproof-breathable materials, and its water repellency is solid. The feeling of water droplets rolling off is especially pleasant for those who want to cherish their favorite pair of shoes.
If Amedas is the all-rounder, Tarrago is positioned for those who are particular about their gear.
Recommended for these people
People who often wear white sneakers, people who prioritize stain-resistance performance, sneaker lovers, and people who want to wear their favorite shoes cleanly for a long time.
3rd Place: Marquee Player Waterproof Spray | Choose this if you prioritize cost-performance
While known among sneaker enthusiasts, its general popularity is not as high as Amedas. However, when you actually use it, it is a product with a very good balance of capacity, ease of use, and price. It is suitable for people who think, 'I want to use it as cost-effectively as possible' or 'I want to use it on the whole family's shoes.'
Good cost-performance
When you actually use waterproof spray, it runs out surprisingly quickly. If you use it collectively on commuting shoes, sneakers, children's shoes, and umbrellas, you will find that one bottle is empty before you know it. Marquee Player has sufficient capacity and a good balance with the price, making it attractive because you can use one bottle without hesitation.
Stain-prevention effect can also be expected
As mentioned earlier, waterproof spray is used not only for rain protection but also significantly for stain protection. You can feel the difference especially with white sneakers, children's shoes, and mesh sneakers, and since mud splashes and dust are less likely to stick, daily maintenance becomes easier. I think you can feel the benefits more with shoes you wear every day.
Good compatibility with sneakers
Since the brand itself develops sneaker care products, it gives the impression of being well-suited for sneakers. It is a product that is easy enough to use for the purpose of protecting against rain, protecting against stains, and wearing them for a long time in a clean state.
To be honest, just one thing
If I had to choose just one, Amedas is my top choice, and Tarrago is my go-to if the priority is stain prevention for white sneakers. Marky Player is not so much a "when in doubt, choose this" product, but rather one that appeals to those who prioritize cost-performance or want to use it freely on many pairs of shoes. If Amedas is the all-rounder and Tarrago is for the enthusiast, then Marky Player is positioned as the practical choice for those who value cost-effectiveness.
Recommended for these people
Those who prioritize cost-performance, those who want to use it with the whole family, those who wear sneakers often, and those who want to use waterproof spray without hesitation.
4th Place: 3M Scotchgard | For those who want to try it out first
Its biggest strength is that it is easy to find, as it is often seen in home centers and drugstores. Being able to get it "when you think you want it" is actually quite important. Many people realize they want it once the rainy season starts, and in those moments, having Scotchgard available nearby is a lifesaver.
It also serves as an easy entry point without having to worry about choosing between fluorine-based or silicone-based options. If you are trying waterproof spray for the first time, I think this easily accessible product is more than enough.
Recommended for these people
Waterproof spray beginners, those who want to buy it locally, and those who want to try it out first.
5th Place: Crep Protect | A product every sneaker lover should know
This is a well-known waterproof spray among sneaker enthusiasts. It is supported by those who want to take good care of their white sneakers, limited edition sneakers, and favorite pairs.
I get the impression that people who choose this product are more concerned with "not wanting to get them dirty" than "not wanting to get them wet." It is aimed at those who want to protect their shoes from everyday minor dirt like mud splashes, spilled drinks, and dust, and many people choose it as a sneaker care product. It is positioned as a product for those who enjoy sneakers as a hobby.
Recommended for these people
Those who often wear white sneakers or limited edition models, those who prioritize stain prevention, and those who enjoy sneaker care.
Extra Edition | Who is silicone-based spray recommended for?
To those who read this far and wondered, "Do you not recommend silicone-based sprays?" It is not that I do not recommend them, but the purpose is different. In situations where you "just want to repel water," such as for umbrellas, rain boots, and rainwear, silicone-based sprays are a perfectly adequate option. It is just that they are not well-suited for shoes, but they have their place.
While breathability will decrease, the waterproofing power is quite high.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is waterproof spray necessary for Gore-Tex shoes?
I think it is better to use it. The Gore-Tex waterproof membrane is inside the fabric, but waterproof spray is for maintaining the water repellency of the surface. Since their roles are different, it is safer to have both. I personally use Amedas on my Gore-Tex shoes as well.
Should I spray new shoes too?
I recommend it. It is especially reassuring to spray white sneakers, children's shoes, and mesh sneakers while they are brand new. It is more about preventing stains than waterproofing.
How many times should I spray?
For new shoes, I sometimes spray them once, let them dry, and then spray them again. After that, I aim for about once every 1 to 2 weeks.
Is it okay to wear the shoes immediately after spraying?
I recommend wearing them only after they have dried completely. It is much more effective to spray them the night before and let them dry overnight than to spray them just because it is raining now.
Can it be used on children's shoes?
I use it. I sometimes spray them not just for waterproofing, but to make them resistant to dirt. Once you start using it on white indoor shoes or school shoes, I think you won't want to be without it.
Summary
The correct way to choose a waterproof spray is not by asking "which is the strongest," but by considering "what you will use it for."
If you are buying your first one, go with Columbus Amedas. If you want to keep your white sneakers clean, choose TARRAGO High Tech Nano Protector. If you have a lot to use for the whole family, go with Marquee Player. For umbrellas or rain boots, silicone-based sprays are also an option.
Having been involved with shoes for over 20 years, I still keep Amedas in my entryway. For anyone who says, "I don't know what to buy," I recommend this without hesitation.
No matter which product you choose, please make sure to let them dry thoroughly after spraying before wearing them. That one extra step will make a significant difference in your comfort during the rainy season.
*This article was drafted using AI for the structure and initial text, and then edited and supplemented by the author, an active shoe fitter, based on their own experience and expertise.
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Author Profile
Over 20 years of experience in the footwear industry. After 17 years of retail sales in shoe specialty stores (men's shoes, sneakers, women's and children's shoes), I am currently in charge of sales and product planning at a shoe manufacturer in the Kansai region. Holds a shoe fitter certification.
I regularly read fashion magazines like Begin, 2nd, and Lightning to keep up with trends in shoes and fashion.
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