How to Waterproof Figure Skates

Caring for your figure skates requires time and attention. Keep them polished to seal the leather and wick away water and slush. After you step off the ice, immediately dry the boot bottoms. Though some figure skates come with a factory coating, over time they will need additional waterproof protection. Biannually, have the blades removed to reapply a waterproof protector to the complete figure skate. Make waterproofing an integral part of a routine to lengthen the skate's life.

Things You'll Need

  • Soft cloth or chamois
  • Newspaper
  • Shoe polish, black or white
  • Neatsfoot oil
  • Shoe grease with beeswax
  • Beeswax waterproofer
  • Waterproof heel and sole dressing
  • Silicone-based water repellent for leather
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Instructions

    • 1

      Wipe down the entire skate, including the blade, with a soft cloth or chamois. Take out the laces, pull the tongue forward and dry at room temperature. Stuff crumpled newspaper into the boot to preserve its shape and absorb moisture.

    • 2

      Apply shoe polish regularly to cover up scuffs, give the leather luster and provide a water-repellent surface.

    • 3

      Work neatsfoot oil into your boot. This natural preservative helps waterproof the leather and restores its condition, keeping it supple. Rub a small amount into the leather with a clean towel after exposure to ice and moisture.

    • 4

      Choose shoe grease with beeswax to waterproof and preserve. Look for grease that does not contain animal fats or solvents, which tend to dry out the leather and leave it lusterless. Clean leather with a soft cloth and then warm it to room temperature. With a different soft cloth, work grease into the leather. Concentrate in areas over the stitching and where the leather meets the sole. Allow the grease to penetrate, then reapply.

    • 5

      Protect and waterproof with a beeswax waterproofer such as "Sno-Seal," which dries to a solid wax, maintaining the strength and shape of the boot. Distribute a thin layer to a clean boot, then melt the wax using a blow dryer close to the surface. As it dries, it will seem to evaporate, although it protects like solid wax shell. It should be reapplied periodically.

    • 6

      Safeguard leather heel and sole edges with a waterproof heel and sole dressing. In small circular strokes, apply this enamel formula with a wool tip applicator and set out to dry.

    • 7

      Opt for a silicone-based water repellent in spray or dabber form. This type of product gives lasting protection against moisture and salt. When dried, it deeply penetrates and bonds to the leather, creating a barrier while still allowing the leather to breathe.