How to Make Bear Grease Waterproofing for Boots

Some people use mink oil to treat and waterproof their boots; others swear by saddle soap; and wax has its advocates. If you are the type who likes to make your own waterproofing for leather boots and you have some bear fat available, you can use it to treat and waterproof your boots. Native Americans used bear grease for waterproofing, and the practice continues today among hunters who want to waste as little of their kill as possible.

Things You'll Need

  • Bear fat
  • Kitchen thermometer
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Clean all the hair, dirt and skin off of your chunks of bear fat.

    • 2

      Cut your cleaned bear fat into 1-inch cubes.

    • 3

      Heat the cubes of fat on the stove on low heat until the fat reaches 350 degrees.

    • 4

      Strain the liquefied fat through a coffee filter or two layers of cheesecloth. This will remove any impurities.

    • 5

      Pour the strained bear grease into storage containers. Glass jars or airtight plastic containers will work fine.

    • 6

      Store the bear grease in the refrigerator. When it solidifies you can use it on your boots.