Are My Leather Sandals Waterproof? Understanding Leather and Water

Leather sandals are designed to withstand wear and tear, including the effects of water. While natural leather is porous, its treatment determines how it handles moisture. So, can leather sandals get wet? The water resistance of your sandals is directly linked to the consistent care you provide and, critically, how you handle them immediately after they get wet. The high-quality leather used in Jerusalem Sandals is vegetable-tanned to ensure the quality of the sandals.

What Is Vegetable Tanned Leather and Why Does It Matter?

You might be wondering, what is vegetable tanned leather? It is a durable, eco-friendly material tanned using natural tannins from tree bark, leaves, and roots, rather than harsh chemicals. It is characterized by its firm texture, earthy, rich colors, and ability to develop a unique patina over time. This traditional, labor-intensive method makes it ideal for carving, tooling, and high-end goods, like our leather sandals. 

Vegetable tanning is the traditional tanning process used by Jerusalem Sandals. This natural process makes the material breathable and reliable compared to synthetic alternatives. So, is leather water-resistant? When treated with our techniques, your leather sandals will be quite resistant to the effects of water. Regular maintenance, including leather balms or waxes, can increase the resistance to water.

Waterproof vs. Water Resistant Sandals: What’s The Difference?

Waterproof means that something is completely impervious to water and sealed against it, allowing for submersion. Water-resistance is when something only repels light moisture or splashes for short periods. Waterproofing is ideal for heavy rain or total submersion, whereas water-resistance makes things more breathable and suitable for daily, light-use scenarios. 

Jerusalem Sandals provides high-quality, resilient footwear that can be worn in any weather. Our sandals are designed to withstand heavy rain or muddy walks. When our leather sandals get wet, they can still be renewed and worn again in the future.

How Jerusalem Sandals Are Made For The Modern Explorer

The artisan craftsmanship approach by Jerusalem Sandals has been used for centuries. Our sandals are made with thick leather soles and dual-stitching that contribute to the longevity of both women’s and men’s water resistant sandals. Our sandals are hand-finished, with vegetable-tanned leather that molds to the shape of your feet. 

Our sandals are comfortable and long-lasting, enjoyed by anyone who wears them. Pair yours with casual looks or dress them up. We offer various colors, including cream, black, navy, and more. No matter what color you choose, our men’s and women’s water resistant sandals will complete your outfit and keep you comfortable on your journey.

Maintenance Tips: What To Do If Your Leather Sandals Get Wet?

To maintain your vegetable-tanned sandals from Jerusalem Sandals, it’s important to clean and care for them to restore them to the right condition. To clean your sandals, you should gently wipe them with a dry cloth or soft-bristled brush to remove surface dust. You should use a slightly dampened cloth with water to remove any dirt. For deeper cleaning, use a specialized saddle soap or mild, diluted Castile soap, applying in circular motions and ensuring the leather dries naturally away from direct heat or sunlight. 

Air-drying away from heat is the best option, as excessive heat can cause damage. Be sure to condition your sandals with a leather conditioner, as cleaning them has removed the natural oils. Conditioning your sandals after they get wet will keep the fibers supple. Leather sandals in the rain might cause patina, which can potentially lighten them, while conditioning might darken them initially. It’s a gamble that’s worth taking when you’re enjoying life. Do your best to care for your sandals if you ever find yourself in the rain.

Finding Your Perfect Fit For All-Weather Comfort

Our sandals are available in EU and US sizing options, so you can choose the perfect size for your next pair. Our sizing guide will help you narrow down the right size. Be sure to measure your foot, and use our guide to determine the right size sandal for you. A proper fit ensures the leather breaks in correctly, even after a light stroll in the rain. Explore our water resistant sandals today.