Nikwax Waterproofing Wax For Leather Review: Does It Really Work?

Nikwax Waterproofing Wax is a great product for leather articles, particularly for leather shoes and gloves. Not only does it keep your leather items clean, but it also adds a hydrophobic layer making them waterproof.

Moreover, it also adds a protective layer that effectively shields your gloves and shoes against the elements. But is it as effective as Nikwax claims? Let’s find out!

In this review, we’ll be taking a closer look at the Nikwax Waterproofing Wax and will share with you in-depth information about the ingredients, benefits, how it works, what type of products it works well with and who it’s for. Let’s jump right in!

Benefits & How It Works

As wax is a non-polar saturated hydrocarbon and water a polar molecule, wax naturally repels water. In other words, water and wax have opposite polarities, which give wax hydrophobic properties, making it an excellent compound for waterproofing leather products. 

In other words, an evenly coated application of Nikwax Waterproofing Wax for Leather helps to waterproof any type of leather articles, especially shoes and gloves – and it works really well! 

Another important benefit that is worth stressing is the protective layer it adds to leather. Leather generally absorbs water and when it’s exposed to water over a longer period of time, it can stiffen, potentially losing its texture and also color. Essentially, this wax can preserve your leather items, when applied correctly. 

Who It’s Made For

The waterproofing properties of this wax are great for people who tend to spend longer periods of time outdoors and use leather products that are exposed to snow, rain or moist weather conditions. 

Here’s a non-exhaustive list of activities where Nikwax Waterproofing Wax would be ideal for:

• Camping
• Hiking
• Traveling
• Sports
• Skiing
• Snowboarding
• Outdoor Activities

Ingredients

While Nikwax isn’t too transparent about what exactly the ingredients of their waterproofing formula contains (besides it being a wax), they clearly highlight what it doesn’t contain. 

All of the ingredients are claimed to be non-hazardous and are environmentally friendly. It’s also important to note that there are no animal-derived substances in the wax formula and none of Nikwax products are tested on animals. 

In short here are some of the key points about the ingredients:

• Non-flammable
• Non-aerosol
• Non-hazardous
• No harmful solvents
• No volatile organic compounds
• No fluorocarbons

What Leather Products It’s Great For

As the name suggests, the Nikwax Waterproofing Wax For Leather is a great waterproofing wax for leather products. The wax is effective for pretty much any type of leather articles that you may have that are used outdoors, such as leather shoes, boots, gloves, coats, hats, and much more. 

However, we suggest using this wax primarily on leather shoes or boots and leather gloves, as it’s not as easy to apply on larger items such as leather coats. Also avoid applying it on nubuck leather, if you prefer to maintain its rough appearance compared to a polished finish.

Sizes

Nikwax Waterproofing Wax for Leather comes in two different types of applicators in a single size each. The liquid version, called Nikwax Waterproofing Wax for Leather (Liquid), comes in a 125 ml bottle and has variants for different colored leather, which are brown, black and neutral. 

On the other hand, the non-liquid version, simply called Nikwax Waterproofing Wax for Leather (our recommendation), has a more creamy texture and can be applied to any type of leather. However, take note that it may darken it if applied to very light color tones. 

Having tried both variants, we definitely prefer the non-liquid version as it’s much easier to apply and works better for most colors. It’s also much easier to evenly coat it, compared to the liquid version.

Directions

Applying this waterproofing wax to any leather product is fairly straight-forward and easy. Simply follow the steps below and make sure to shake the product well before using it. 

1. Prepare Product & Leather
2. Clean Leather 
3. Apply Nikwax On Leather
4. Let Leather Dry

For more information check out our comprehensive guide on how to use Nikwax Waterproofing Wax on various leather products. Each step is outlined in detail, which you’ll easily be able to follow. 

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have any questions about this waterproofing wax that wasn’t covered in our review, then have a look further below. In this section, we’ve created a list of the most frequently asked questions. 

Is Non-Liquid or Liquid Nikwax Better?

Both the liquid and non-liquid wax are made of the same ingredients and are excellent options for waterproofing your leather articles. Having tried both versions, we generally prefer the non-liquid wax, as it’s easier to apply with the sponge applicator and sponge. 

It also doesn’t run off to the side and doesn’t dry up as fast, giving you more time to evenly coat your leather shoes or gloves. In terms of waterproofing qualities, both the liquid and non-liquid versions seem to perform equally well, yet the waterproofing coat of the non-liquid version lasts slightly longer.  

How Much Wax Do I Need to Use?

Only use the amount required to evenly coat your leather product. Here, it’s best to either use your fingers, a wool cloth or the sponge applicator. For more information, make sure to check out our Nikwax Waterproof Wax application guide. 

What Type of Leather Can I Use This On?

Nikwax Waterproofing Wax for Leather works on all types of leather. However, it’s important to take note that it may slightly darken light-colored leather and give rougher leather textures such as nubuck a shiny and polished appearance. 

How Often Do I Have to Apply Nikwax?

The number of applications required to keep your leather gloves and shoes waterproof generally depends on how often they come into contact with water. The protective and waterproof layer will wear off after extended use and when you notice your leather absorbing water, you should apply a new layer of wax. 

We also find that the non-liquid wax layer lasts a little longer on your leather products than the liquid version. While it may take a while longer to apply, it also lengthens the lifespan of the coating.