Shoes accompany us daily through various situations and weather conditions—whether on wet sidewalks, muddy paths, or snow-covered trails. To withstand all of this without damage, good impregnation is crucial. It protects the material from water and dirt and prevents moisture from penetrating, which is especially important for leather and outdoor shoes. We’ll show you what really matters.


Protection Through Waterproofing


Impregnation is the general process by which materials are treated to enhance their water repellency. This is particularly important for winter and hiking shoes that are often exposed to extreme weather conditions. Moisture, cold, and dirt can not only affect your comfort but also damage the materials of your shoes. A thorough impregnation protects the surface from moisture, keeps your feet dry, and ensures that your shoes last longer. Regularly waterproofing your winter and hiking shoes offers numerous additional benefits:

 

  • Water Repellency: Well-impregnated shoes repel water, keeping your feet dry even in wet conditions. This increases your comfort and minimizes the risk of hypothermia.

  • Material Protection: An effective impregnation protects the surface materials from dirt and other environmental influences that can affect the lifespan of your shoes. Well-protected shoes show less wear and tear and remain functional.

  • Breathability: Many impregnation products, including those from Toko, are formulated not to compromise the material's breathability. This ensures that your feet stay comfortably regulated even during intense activities.

  • Comfort and Performance: Dryness means more comfort. When your feet stay warm and dry, you can focus better on your activities, leading to improved performance.

 

 

Choosing the Right Product

When selecting the right waterproofing product, you should consider several important factors. First, it is essential that the impregnation agent is suitable for the specific material of the shoes, whether it’s leather, synthetic, or textile. Choosing the wrong product can damage the material and impair protection. Additionally, it can be quite helpful to examine the product's features, various quality seals, and customer reviews. Independent tests, such as those conducted by "Stiftung Warentest" can also be beneficial.

Practical Application Tips

To get the most out of our Toko impregnation products, keep the following tips in mind:

  • Remove dirt and debris to prepare the surface optimally for impregnation.

  • Apply the impregnation agent in even strokes over the shoe's surface. Be careful not to treat the sole to ensure optimal grip.

  • Let the impregnation dry completely before using the shoes again. This ensures that the protective layer can take full effect.

  • Depending on usage and weather conditions, you should regularly impregnate your shoes to maintain their functionality and longevity.

 

Important: Do not impregnate synthetic leather! Impregnation sprays can often leave unsightly stains on synthetic leather shoes because the material is plastic-like and cannot absorb the chemicals properly. Instead, it’s advisable to clean synthetic leather shoes regularly with a damp cloth and treat them with an appropriate care product.