Harley Davidson Boots - 5 Advanced Tips For Waterproofing Them

As we have heard and learned, "You must crawl before you can walk." Similarly, we must master basic methods for maintaining our motorcycles and motorcycle accessories, before we can graduate to more challenging methods. For instance, weatherproofing your motorcycle boots, such as Harley Davidson boots, can range significantly in its difficulty. After you have mastered the basics of motorcycle boot waterproofing, it is time to tackle the more challenging methods. Here are some tips:

1. Realize that exterior waterproofing and interior waterproofing are independent

Even if the inside of motorcycle boots contains some type of waterproof liners, waterproof the boots as if the liners were absent. Think about it this way: water proofing materials on the exterior and interior of motorcycle boots, are independent of each other. In other words, the two types of waterproofing have two different functions. The liners inside the boots allow moisture from the inside to escape to the surface of the boots. Meanwhile, exterior waterproofing prevents moisture from entering the gap between the leather and the liner. This is a good thing, as wet leather can make a boot up to 1.5 pounds heavier!

2. Is waterproofing any of your beeswax?

As children, many of us would tell our nosy siblings and friends, "It is none of your beeswax!" In the case of motorcycle boot waterproofing, make beeswax your business. Here are some of its benefits:

• It is extremely dry
• It does not soften leather
• It is free of oil
• It has a melting point of over 1400° F.

The bottom line is that beeswax is a sturdy, effective way to waterproof your boots.

3. Avoid waterproofing substances such as oil, grease, (various) waxes, and animal fat

These substances are liquid or have a soft consistency. Thus, they will sink from the boot's surface, and then permeate the entire leather. In addition, you must repeatedly apply these materials to the boots. Within time, the leather becomes soft and supple, with the toe and heel becoming particularly vulnerable to moisture. The bottom line is that such materials are not worth the hassle.

4. Silicones have their pros and cons

Silicones are quite easy to apply to motorcycle boots. They reduce the surface tension on a boot, and fill up the pores and grains of the leather. However, they also have several drawbacks. Compared to substances such as beeswax, silicones are less sturdy and provide less protection from water.

5. Use fluoropolymers with caution

The original purpose of fluroropolymers is to safeguard textiles from stains. While you can also use it to waterproof boots, have a professional perform the process, as it requires specific conditions. While fluoropolymers repel stains better than silicone does, the former is inferior in repelling water. Furthermore, the results can vary, depending on which type of surface to which the applier applies the application.

After mastering the basics of motorcycle boot weatherproofing, consider some more advanced methods. Remember that regardless of which substance you choose, your ultimate goal is to keep your feet dry as a desert highway on a cloudless day!

For more tips and information about harley davidson boots, please check out http://www.harley-davidson-boots.net

Jenny_Carson