Tower 2.0 GTX Boot: Waterproof Care Tips
By Scarponi Trekking, Hiking, Escursionismo e Outdoor|... | Published: 2026-10-21
Category: Tips & Care
Keep your Garmont Tower 2.0 GTX WMS boots performing at their best with these practical care steps for cleaning and reproofing the Gore-Tex membrane.
Quick answer
Clean your Tower 2.0 GTX boots after muddy hikes and reproof the leather when water stops beading. Regular care keeps the Gore-Tex membrane working and the semi-cramponable sole intact.
Why care matters for a semi-cramponable boot
The Tower 2.0 GTX is built for technical trails and via ferrata, where mud, grit, and abrasion are routine. Dirt packed into the sole or leather can wear down the waterproof membrane faster than normal hiking. Because this boot is semi-cramponable, you also want to keep the rand and heel welt free of debris so crampons attach securely.
Gore-Tex boots don't need daily cleaning, but a quick rinse after every wet or muddy outing prevents long-term damage. Leather panels require periodic reproofing to maintain water beading and breathability.
Step-by-step care routine
- Remove loose dirt and mud: Use a soft brush or damp cloth to wipe off all surface dirt. Pay special attention to the welt area and sole treads. Let the boot air dry at room temperature away from direct heat. Never use a washing machine or submerge the boot; that forces water past the membrane.
- Clean the leather and fabric: Mix a small amount of mild soap with lukewarm water. Gently scrub the upper with a soft sponge, then rinse with a clean damp cloth. Avoid soaking the boot. Skip harsh detergents or solvents—they strip the DWR coating and damage the Gore-Tex membrane.
- Air dry completely: Stuff the boots with newspaper or a boot dryer set to low heat. Let them dry naturally for 12-24 hours. Remove the insoles and dry them separately. Never place boots on a radiator or in direct sunlight; heat warps the sole and weakens the glue.
- Reproof the leather upper: Apply a dedicated Gore-Tex boot wax or cream to the leather panels once the boots are fully dry. Follow the product instructions, then let the treatment absorb overnight. Over-reproofing clogs the pores—one even coat per season is usually enough for moderate use.
- Restore DWR on fabric areas: Use a spray-on DWR treatment for the fabric sections of the boot. Apply from 15 cm away and let it dry before wearing. Test water beading after each reproof: if water still soaks in, apply another light coat.
Product facts
- TOWER 2.0 GTX® WMS: Semi-cramponable design suited to varied terrain; intended for technical trails and via ferrata. The boot's robust construction means you must keep the welt and rand clean to preserve crampon compatibility and avoid damaging the leather during technical use.
TOWER 2.0 GTX® WMS
