Justin 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. The distinction matters if you stand in water rather than walk through it, and it is stated in the product title.

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 pull-on does far more for you than a better membrane on a short boot. See our Justin pull-on work boots 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.

Are waterproof boots also slip resistant?

They are separate properties, but most of this range carries both, which is a useful pairing since wet floors are where slips happen. Waterproofing is about the membrane inside; slip resistance is about the outsole compound and tread. Both are rated per model and stated on the product page.

Are waterproof boots hotter in summer?

Somewhat, since the membrane restricts airflow, and it is most noticeable in heat. The membrane adds no insulation on its own, so a waterproof uninsulated boot is a three-season boot rather than a winter one. If heat rather than water is your problem, an unlined breathable boot is the better choice.

Does a waterproof membrane affect the safety rating?

No. Waterproofing sits between the leather and the lining and has nothing to do with the toe cap or the outsole ratings. A waterproof boot carries whatever ASTM ratings it was built and tested for, exactly as a non-waterproof version of the same model would. See our Justin safety toe range.

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.

Justin Waterproof Work Boots

Frequently Asked Questions

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