How to Dry Waterproof Hiking Shoes Without Damaging Them
By Scarponi Trekking, Hiking, Escursionismo e Outdoor|... | Published: 2026-10-18
Category: How-to Guides
Learn the correct steps to dry wet waterproof hiking boots without ruining the membrane or materials. Avoid heat, direct sunlight, and common mistakes that shorten boot life.
Quick answer
Dry waterproof hiking boots at room temperature with good airflow, using absorbent materials inside and avoiding direct heat or sunlight to preserve the membrane and glue.
Why heat and direct sun ruin waterproof boots
Waterproof membranes like GORE-TEX and the glued seams that keep boots sealed are sensitive to high temperatures. Placing wet boots on a radiator, near a fire, or in direct sunlight can delaminate the outer fabric, crack the membrane, and weaken the adhesive. Once the glue fails, the boot loses its waterproof integrity permanently.
Even moderate heat from a hairdryer or car vent can accelerate aging of the materials. The safest approach is slow, gentle drying that mimics natural evaporation.
When to use a boot dryer vs. air drying
A dedicated boot dryer that circulates unheated or low-warm air is the best tool for frequent hikers. It moves air through the boot without raising internal temperature above safe levels. If you don't own one, air drying with newspaper or a towel works well for occasional use.
Avoid using a clothes dryer, oven, or microwave—these methods almost always damage the boot's construction and void warranties.
Step-by-step drying process
- Remove insoles and loosen laces: Take out the insoles and open the laces completely. This allows air to reach the inside of the boot and speeds up drying. Stuff the boots with dry newspaper or a clean towel to absorb moisture from the interior. Change the newspaper or towel every few hours until the boot interior feels barely damp.
- Air dry in a ventilated, shaded area: Place the boots in a room with good airflow—near an open window or under a ceiling fan—but out of direct sunlight. Elevated drying on a rack or upside down on their soles lets air circulate underneath. Do not use a radiator, heater, or hair dryer. Patience is key; full drying can take 12–24 hours.
- Check dryness and re-waterproof if needed: Once the boots are completely dry to the touch inside and out, test the waterproofing by sprinkling a few drops of water on the upper. If the water beads and rolls off, the DWR coating is still active. If it soaks in, apply a spray-on DWR treatment designed for GORE-TEX footwear. Re-treat the DWR coating only when the boot is fully dry—applying to damp fabric can seal in moisture.
Products that handle wet conditions well
- AKRON GTX®: The AKRON GTX® is a technical hiking shoe designed for daily mountain hikes, featuring a GORE-TEX membrane for waterproofing. Even with a quality membrane, improper drying can ruin the boot's seal; follow the steps below to keep it performing.
AKRON GTX®
