When it comes to the care and maintenance of your sneakers, choosing the best suede protector for shoes is paramount seeing as it's such a tricky material to clean. Yes, not only does a protector streamline the cleaning process, but it also ensures that your cherished footwear remains in impeccable condition.
The reason why suede is so difficult to work with is because it behaves like a sponge in the presence of water, making it susceptible to damage. However, with a dependable protector, you can confidently don your favourite sneakers irrespective of weather conditions. These protectors are all designed to create a protective shield, effectively preventing water and dirt from infiltrating and compromising the delicate material.
If you're currently on the lookout for a top-tier spray-on protector, options such as the Crep Protect Ultimate spray we couldn't recommend enough. If you'd prefer a more budget-friendly alternative though, the Nikwax Nubuck & Suede Proof solution offers an excellent choice. Fortunately, our selection encompasses a variety of protectors to cater to diverse preferences and budgets.
We've included answers to frequently asked questions too, to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of how suede protectors function and how to use them effectively. But before we delve into those details, let's explore our top picks...
Best suede protector for shoes
- Crep Protect Ultimate Waterproof Spray - a well-rounded choice for most
- Kiwi Protect-All Waterproofer - best waterproofing formula
- Nikwax Nubuck & Suede Proof - an excellent budget option to consider
- adidas Originals Shoe Protector - top suede protector spray
- Moneysworth & Best Suede & Nubuck Protector - best for suede and nubuck
1. Crep Protect Ultimate Rain & Stain Waterproof Spray
Best suede protector for shoes overall
Crep Protect is one of the premier protector sprays on the market, catering to various clothing types and offering a top-tier solution for preserving the immaculate appearance of suede shoes.
It boasts a super-hydrophobic formula, with the spray-on solution repelling liquids and defeating stains with ease, making it an ideal safeguard for your beloved suede sneakers - bid adieu to concerns about spills or stains tarnishing your prized footwear.
The best part though is that Crep Protect's formula swiftly dries, becoming entirely invisible within a mere 10 minutes. This allows you to use it confidently on suede shoes of any colour, ensuring the material remains unscathed.
So, as far as protector sprays go, few rival the comprehensive effectiveness of this spray-on solution. As an owner of the spray, I can personally attest to its truly remarkable ability to keep your shoes clean.
Reasons to buy:
- Incredibly hydrophobic and dries to invisible in no time at all
- We can attest to its exceptional protective performance
Read More: Best shoe cleaning kits
2. Kiwi Protect-All Waterproofer
Best waterproofing suede protector for shoes
Kiwi is one of the biggest names in the world of shoe care, creating some of the best suede cleaners around, but its Protect-All Waterproofer stands out to us as the ideal solution for keeping your suede sneakers dry.
The formula is designed to create an invisible spray around your shoes that prevents water and dirt from entering the surface whilst still allowing them to breathe. This is crucial in summer, for instance, when temperatures start to skyrocket and breathable sneakers are a must.
Moreover, suede is a material that needs to be kept well-ventilated to prevent rot and mildew from developing over time as the material is known for its impressive water retention capabilities.
On the whole, we feel there's a lot to like about this Kiwi Protect-All Waterproofer, especially when it comes to keeping your suede sneakers clean in the rain.
Reasons to buy:
- Insanely good at dealing with water
- Keeps your shoes ventilated as well as protected
Read More: Best shoe crease protectors
3. Nikwax Nubuck & Suede Proof
Best budget suede protector for shoes
If you're looking for a suede protector that won't break the bank with its price tag, then this Nikwax Nubuck & Suede Proof spray could be for you.
Simply spray the unscented solution onto your suede kicks and the water-repellent formula should keep your sneakers stain-free whilst preserving the unique texture of the material.
It's also worth noting that the formula is water-based, non-persistent, and contains no PFCs, VOCs, or optical brighteners, making the solution relatively chemical-free and safe to use on all shoe types.
Ultimately, this Nikwax spray looks to be an excellent pick-up if you're after a relatively inexpensive suede protector.
Reasons to buy:
- Unscented and free from major chemicals
- Cheaper than some of its rivals
Read More: Best leather shoe cleaners
4. adidas Originals Shoe Protector
Best suede protector spray for shoes
We've already discussed several great protector sprays, however, adidas' Originals Shoe Protector is one of the best sprayable solutions around. That's because it delivers a fine mist that can completely cover your sneakers from its 360-degree dispensing cap.
What's more, this protector spray utilises breathable, hydrophobic Nano-technology to prevent your footwear from succumbing to damage, and it's completely safe to use on all materials, including leather, nubuck, canvas, and, importantly for this list, suede.
It's a water-based environmentally friendly formula too, free from aerosol propellants, that dries to invisible to avoid damaging any coloured suede. Plus, you can buy refills for it, which makes protecting your shoe collection incredibly simple and cost-effective.
You really can't go wrong with this adidas protector, especially if you're looking for one of the most versatile spray-on solutions out there.
Reasons to buy:
- Sprayable in any orientation from its 360-degree dispensing cap
- Environmentally friendly water-based formula
Read More: Best shoe deodorizers
5. Moneysworth & Best Suede & Nubuck Protector
Best suede and nubuck protector for shoes
Completing our list is the Moneysworth & Best Suede & Nubuck Protector, an exceptional product designed to shield suede and nubuck shoes, boots, handbags, and apparel from water, soil, and oil stains.
What sets this spray-on formula apart is its incorporation of UV protection, safeguarding your suede sneakers from fading due to prolonged exposure to intense sunlight. Moreover, Moneysworth & Best takes pride in the quick-drying nature of their solution, providing instant protection against various elements for your shoes.
So, if you desire to prolong the lifespan of your footwear and reduce the frequency of cleaning, the Moneysworth & Best Suede & Nubuck Protector spray is your ideal choice.
Reasons to buy:
- Protects both suede and nubuck very sell
- There's UV protection in its formula
Read More: Best leather shoe conditioners
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
A ton of questions usually emerge when figuring out which suede protector spray is right for you. Don't worry; we've answered some of the most commonly asked questions right here.
How do suede protectors work?
Generally speaking, protectors work by filling the pores in the materials of your shoes to repel any water or dirt trying to enter. As a result, you should find any water will run straight off your shoes without leaving a mark of stain.
Sprays normally use either wax, oil, or sometimes synthetic glue to act as the repellent. That said, we'd advise looking into the ingredients before buying to double-check it's suitable for your suede shoes.
How often should you use a suede protector on your shoes?
How often you apply a suede protector spray to your shoes depends on various factors, such as how often you wear them, the weather conditions, and how dirty or stained they become. However, as a general rule of thumb, we'd recommend you apply a protector every four to six weeks as the spray may have lost its effectiveness past this point.
If you wear your suede shoes frequently or in harsh weather conditions, you may need to apply the protector more often. Similarly, if you notice any stains or dirt on your shoes, it is advisable to clean them first before applying the protector spray.
It's essential to follow the instructions on the suede protector spray you are using and to apply it in a well-ventilated area, preferably outdoors. Also, remember to brush your suede shoes regularly with a soft-bristled suede brush to keep them looking their best.
How much should you spend on a suede protector?
The answer to this question doesn't have an answer as it depends on your budget. However, in general, suede protectors are fairly cheap, allowing you to find some of the best protectors at a reasonable price. Using a suede protector spray is also convenient as it helps prevent damage to your favourite shoes, ultimately reducing the frequency of cleanings required.
Can suede protectors be used on coloured suede?
Yes, suede protectors can typically be used on coloured suede. Most suede protectors are designed to be colourless and should not significantly alter the tone of the material at all.
However, it's always a good idea to test the product on a small, inconspicuous area of the suede before applying it to the entire shoe. This will help ensure that the suede protector does not cause any unwanted changes in colour or texture. Additionally, make sure to follow the instructions provided by the suede protector manufacturer for the best results on coloured suede.
Do suede protectors have an expiration date?
Suede protectors typically do not have a fixed expiration date like perishable goods, but their effectiveness can diminish over time. The shelf life of a suede protector largely depends on factors such as its formulation, packaging, and storage conditions.
With that in mind, if you store your protector spray in a cool, dry place, you should find it lasts for a good few years, especially if it's packaged as an aerosol spray.
Just make sure you check the manufacturer's guidelines on the product's packaging or label. Some suede protector brands may provide information on the recommended shelf life or storage conditions which, in turn, will help it maintain its effectiveness for the longest possible time.
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