Carhartt Waterproof Work Boots

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between waterproof and water-resistant?

A waterproof boot uses a sealed membrane and sealed seams so water cannot work through the leather or the stitching. Water-resistant leather sheds rain and handles damp ground but wets through with sustained exposure. Carhartt sells both, and the distinction is stated in the product title, so read it if you stand in water rather than walk through it.

What is Storm Defender?

Carhartt's waterproof membrane, bonded inside the boot between the leather and the lining, with the seams sealed so water cannot track through the stitching. It works the same way any bootie membrane does. The name tells you the boot is waterproof rather than water-resistant, which is the distinction that matters.

How high should a waterproof boot be?

High enough for the water you actually stand in, since the membrane protects only to the collar. A 6-inch handles wet ground and rain. If you work in standing water or deep mud, an 11-inch Wellington does far more for you than a better membrane on a short boot. See our Carhartt Wellington range.

Why do my waterproof boots feel wet inside?

Usually sweat rather than leakage, particularly in warm weather when the membrane cannot breathe effectively. The other common cause is water coming in over the collar, which no membrane prevents. If the outer leather is soaking through, that is a worn water-repellent finish rather than a failed membrane, and it can be restored.

Does waterproofing wear out?

Yes. Membranes fail at seams and flex points over a few years of hard wear, and unlike an outsole they cannot be replaced. Treat waterproofing as a finite feature over the life of the boot. The outer repellent finish wears off much sooner and can be restored by cleaning and reapplying a treatment.

What is FastDry lining?

Carhartt's moisture-wicking lining, which moves sweat away from the foot rather than letting it sit against the skin. It addresses the main complaint about waterproof boots, which is that the membrane restricts how quickly perspiration escapes. It is a comfort feature rather than part of the waterproofing.

Can waterproof boots also be insulated?

Yes, and the combination is standard for winter work since wet insulation stops working and snow melts against a warm boot. Insulation weight is stated in the product title where it applies. Match it to how much you move rather than to the temperature.

How do you care for a waterproof leather boot?

Clean the dirt off regularly, since it clogs the outer material and stops moisture escaping, which causes clammy feet. Condition the leather every one to three months. Dry at room temperature away from direct heat, which damages both the leather and the membrane adhesives.

Carhartt Waterproof Work Boots

Frequently Asked Questions

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