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Posted by Bethan Bithell on Jun 02, 2016
Leaky walking boots are frustrating. Wet socks, cold feet and uncomfortable walks usually mean something has gone wrong, either with the boot itself or how it’s being used. This guide explains why walking boots leak, how to spot the cause, and what you can do to fix the problem.
No walking boot lasts forever. Even high-quality waterproof boots will eventually let water in if they’re worn hard, not dried properly, or not maintained.
Why walking boots leak
Most leaking boots fall into one (or more) of these categories: wear and tear, internal moisture, or lack of maintenance.
Wear and tear
Walking boots flex thousands of times on every walk. Over time, this takes its toll.
Punctured waterproof membranes or soles
Sharp objects such as thorns, slate, nails or barbed wire can damage the waterproof membrane or even puncture the sole. Once the membrane is compromised, water can pass straight through.
What you can do:
Small splits or cracks can sometimes be sealed using a suitable boot sealant. Larger damage usually means the boot won’t stay waterproof long term.
Boots staying wet for too long
Boots worn repeatedly in wet conditions gradually lose waterproof performance. Even waterproof membranes need drying time to recover.
What you can do:
Always allow boots to dry fully between wears. Dry them naturally at room temperature and avoid direct heat, which can damage leather and membranes.
Overuse and worn-out boots
Sometimes boots simply reach the end of their life. Common signs include:
- loose or broken stitching
- worn tread and poor grip
- flattened midsoles or tired cushioning
If leather boots keep leaking, they usually need proper waxing. Our how to wax leather boots guide shows what to do.
What you can do:
If leaks are caused by heavy wear across multiple areas, repair may not be cost-effective. At that point, replacing the boots is usually the best option.
Moisture from hot or sweaty feet
Wet feet don’t always mean water is coming in from outside.
Breathable membranes blocked by dirt
Waterproof membranes rely on breathability to let moisture escape. Mud and grime clog the outer fabric, trapping sweat inside the boot.
What you can do:
Clean walking boots regularly, especially after muddy walks, to restore breathability.
Incorrect or poor-quality walking socks
Walking socks help move moisture away from your feet. Socks that don’t fit properly or aren’t designed for walking can leave feet damp.
Choosing the right socks matters. Well-fitted walking socks help move moisture away from your feet and reduce the chance of dampness inside the boot.
If you’re also dealing with rubbing or hotspots, our guide to anti-blister walking socks explains how the right sock choice can help reduce friction.
What you can do:
Choose walking socks suited to your activity and conditions, and make sure they fit correctly.
Water entering from the top of the boot
If the top of your socks get wet, moisture can be drawn down into the boot.
What you can do:
Using gaiters helps stop water running into boots from wet grass, rain or mud.
Why walking boots leak during dog walking
Dog walking is one of the biggest causes of leaking boots.
Boots worn daily rarely get enough time to dry out fully. Wet grass soaks leather and stitching faster than many people expect, and repeated flexing in the same places weakens seams and materials over time. Even short walks can leave boots damp if they’re worn day after day without proper drying.
This constant use is why dog walkers often notice leaks sooner than occasional walkers.
How to fix leaky walking boots
The right fix depends on the cause.
Dry boots properly between wears
Remove insoles, loosen laces and allow boots to air dry naturally. Stuffing boots with newspaper helps absorb moisture and speeds drying.
Clean boots to restore performance
Dirt prevents membranes from breathing and stops waterproof treatments from working properly. Regular cleaning makes a noticeable difference.
Seal small leaks and damaged areas
Minor cracks, splits or seam issues can sometimes be repaired with a suitable sealant. This works best on early damage.
Know when it’s time to replace boots
If leaks come from widespread wear, tired soles or failing structure, repairs may only offer a short-term fix.
Prevent leaks coming back
Once leaks are fixed, prevention is key. Regular cleaning, drying and waterproofing help extend the life of walking boots and reduce the risk of leaks returning. For ongoing care, see our boot care and waterproofing guide.
For ongoing care, see our boot care and waterproofing guide, which covers cleaning routines, drying advice and waterproofing treatments in detail.
Final thoughts on leaky walking boots
Leaky walking boots aren’t always a sign of poor quality. Daily use, wet conditions and lack of drying time all play a part. Understanding why boots leak makes it easier to fix the problem — and helps you avoid it in future.
If you’re still unsure what’s causing wet feet, check wear points carefully and address the issue early before damage becomes permanent.
Leather boots that keep leaking often need wax rather than spray. Our leather boot waxing guide explains how to do this properly.
If repairs aren’t enough, you can explore our range of walking boots designed for wet and varied conditions.
Last updated 8th January 2026
