Yes, some Blundstone boots styles are waterproof while others are not. There’s a massive difference between waterproof and water-resistant, and once you know the difference, you will understand that you shouldn’t hike up a snowy mountain with water-resistant boots as they will get damaged. Being in the shoes for prolonged periods will make them soak through, and your feet will get wet. Blundstone boots are not only suitable for winter weather but can be worn any season, even on the sunniest of days, since they are very stylish.
Are Blundstones Boots Waterproof Or Water Resistant?
According to the Blundstone website, the Blundstone Winter styles are 100% waterproof. This includes the models #566, #584, #1478, #1477, #1391 and #1392. The styles have waterproof leather uppers and elastics to protect them from damp conditions. However, you must ensure that you maintain these winter boots seasonally with a proper waterproofer.
Other Blundstone boots comprise weatherproof leather, which means that the leather is water-resistant, just like any other leather can be. However, the leather still allows the feet to breathe, and if properly maintained, they can prevent most water penetration and keep the feet warm and dry. The boots feature a unique construction with minimal seams meaning that there are few places that water can get in.
This article explains the difference between Blunderstones waterproof and water-resistant boots. We also explore Blundestones thermal series boots, as we explain why it is difficult to find waterproof boots in the market. Read on!
Difference Between Waterproof And Water-Resistant Boots
Water-resistant is not the same as waterproof. The two words have a few critical distinctions. The primary difference between water-resistant and waterproof material is that waterproof material is not affected by water while water-resistant merely resists moisture. Moreover, water-resistant boots can only resist moisture to some degree. You can wear waterproof boots and overprotect yourself from light rains; however, it does not go both ways. A water-resistant boot can only hold up under light rainfall, and this does not mean that you can wear them as you jump in puddles.
Water-resistant Boots
It is wise to wear Water-resistant boots outdoors in mild and moderate rainfall. Or when there is light snowfall. The shoes typically have thick rubber outsoles and leather suede, faux leather, or canvas uppers that manufacturers treat to repel water and prevent water from penetrating.
For a boot to be water-resistant, it must undergo hydrostatic head testing. This is a test that measures the pressure of exerted liquids. The manufacturers force water through the shoe materials to check how much pressure it can endure before leaks. Water-resistant boots should have the capacity to tolerate 200 millimeters of water pressure.
You can wear a water-resistant boot for a different range of activities, including walking, hiking, and running errands. However, you must ensure that the feet won’t submerge in water at any given time as your feet will get wet. While water-resistant boots withstand just a little water, it does not mean that you should keep them submerged; therefore, it would be best to side-step puddles if possible.
Waterproof Boots
Waterproof boots should be able to be completely submerged in water without getting the feet wet. Unlike water-resistant boots, treated to repel moisture, waterproof boots comprise impermeable materials. The material used for making these boots are relatively stiff and can be pretty uncomfortable than other types of material such as suede or canvas. However, manufacturers line the boots with softer materials to ensure maximum comfort. Most waterproof boots also have insulation.
While water-resistant shoes can bear 200 millimeters of pressure, waterproof boots should resist above 1,000 millimeters of water pressure. The waterproof protection helps the wearer trudge through puddles, snow, and shallow streams without getting the feet wet or damaging the boots.
Why It Is Difficult To Find Waterproof Boots
Although there are many water-resistant boots on the market, finding waterproof boots can be difficult. This is because brands cannot assure that their shoes are completely waterproof and cannot market them as such. Although you might not be planning to go swimming with a pair of waterproof boots, it mostly has a lot to do with what the brands can legally claim in their fine print.
According to Blundstone, they only offer waterproof boots in the winter collection. Nonetheless, they advise wearers to maintain them using a proper waterproofer. This means that failure to preserve them may result in the shoe allowing water to pass through and get your feet damp.
Blundstone Thermal Series
For people who love adventure and traveling or those who spend most of their time outdoors, it’s essential to have a waterproof boot to allow for the possibility of extreme weather. Blundstone has a Thermal series for providing adventurers peace of mind without compromising their comfort or style.
The Thermal series’ design keeps the feet dry and warm even during the harshest winters. The thermal boots come in various styles for both men and women; therefore, anyone can brave the winter when outdoors. The Thermal series boots are fully waterproof and have genuine shearling footbeds fitting featuring arch support for keeping the feet toasty and comfortable.
Additionally, Blundstone offers their customer a superior waterproofing spray for protecting their footwear against any water damage or staining. The fast-drying formula is perfect for use on any footwear; therefore, if you own a pair of suede or leather boots that require securing, they can become waterproof in just a matter of minutes.
You can also buy Blundstone’s ultra-comfortable shearling footbed separately, and it will allow you to achieve maximum comfort in all your shoes. The footbeds are washable, breathable, and can wick moisture to protect your feet from sweat or water and keep them warm.
Conclusion
Not every Blundstone boot is waterproof; however, they are all water-resistant. If you want to completely waterproof your shoes, you should invest in the Blundstone waterproofing spray or their waterproof lines. Whichever boot you choose to buy, you can be sure that you will get the best quality, comfort, and style with Blundstone boots.
