What happens when suede gets wet?

[crazyquik]

I always hear that you can't wear suede shoes in the rain. Or someone says "well, you can wear them once

"

What is it that makes leather work boots different than suede dress shoes? Is the leather treated with stronger water repellants?

 

[Manton]

Water will spot finer suedes if it is not treated with a protective chemical. Also, the nap will flatten out if it gets wet enough often enough.

 

[kitonbrioni]

I of course avoid getting quality shoes wet--smooth or suede. However, suede Doc Martens and the like don't seem to be bothered by getting wet.

 

[sho'nuff]

it is fine to wear suede or nubuck in the rain or water.

as long as the water is not mixed with grease or oil.


just let it dry out and recomb it. it is better than a smooth calfskin leather in the water.

 

[j]

BTW, on suede care - sometimes you use that little brush and it pulls the fibers out too far - just singe them off with a lighter. It smells weird for a little bit, but it looks perfect.

 

[Ivan Kipling]

I've used Bostonian water and stain protector, on suede. It does a fairly good job. Spray the items thoroughly, including seams and soles. Then, let dry. Suede must be brushed, before treating. My brass tined tailor's brush does a marvelous job with suede.

 

[crazyquik]

What's a decent suede brush?

Would the nylon bristle job pictured work or is there something far superior?

 

[j]

The nylon one is the one I've usually seen. Even that is pretty harsh on some suedes. Generally you can get a suede eraser and brush kit (same brush as pictured) at a drugstore for about $4, or you can go to a shoe repair shop and pay $6 or Norstrom and pay $8. They are all the same.

I wouldn't use a wire brush on most suede except as a last resort.

Incidentally, the nylon one sometimes works well along with steam to remove shine from wool clothing - I also used it to scrub the collar of my peacoat (just pushed in and rubbed in circles, didn't abrade) with Woolite, and it came out spotlessly clean.

 

[crazyquik]

I have the suede eraser also which came with the brush. I never use the eraser but the brush works ok on my Aldens.

 

[Tomasso]

Originally Posted by crazyquik

What happens when suede gets wet?

Nothing good, I'm afraid.

 

[Ivan Kipling]

My brass tined tailor's brush does a marvelous job with suede.

I've used this brush on just about anything. With a light touch, it accommodates silk, as well as suede. Vermont Country Store.