Image: MomJunction Design Team
The best shoe protector spray is one that saves you from a bad shoe day. People say that shoes reflect a man’s personality, and a good-quality spray can indeed help retain a shoe’s pristine look while protecting it against water and stains.
Paula Tarling, a professional domestic cleaner, says, “If you have a decent footwear collection, you would want to invest in a quality protector for your favorite pairs. A shoe protector spray helps stop dirt buildup and water stains and keeps your shoes looking clean while enhancing their durability.”
From velvet to suede to leather and canvas, a good protector spray works wonders on various materials to keep them squeaky clean. Keep scrolling as we list the best shoe protector sprays.
Top Picks
20 Best Shoe Protector Sprays
1. Best For White Shoes:Kiwi Select All Protector
Created to protect your shoes from stains and provide a protective shield, Kiwi select all protector spray comes in a large 7.7-ounce can. It creates an invisible covering, making it a great choice for white shoes. The product is suitable for shoes of any color made of suede, genuine or imitation leather, nubuck, and fabric. Check out this review video covering a tester’s experience with the product for a detailed understanding of this water-repellent spray for shoes.
Pros
- Fast-drying formula
- Does not alter the color of shoes
- Gives a glossy finish
- Easy to apply
Cons
- Might not be suitable for patent reptile, metallic leather, or vinyl
- May require multiple coats
"The best part about this product is that it keeps my shoes clean without tarnishing their original color. It does have a chemical odor; however, using the spray outdoors helped combat this issue. Plus, the compact bottle has been easy to carry."
2. Best Stain-Resistant:Apple Brand Garde Rain & Stain Repellent
This shoe protector spray for suede and leather shoes or bags is water-repellent and stain-resistant. The Garde protector spray is a versatile product that helps protect your shoes against salt stains, water spots, oil, grease, or wine by creating a protective shield and preventing fading. Tested and trusted for its quality assurance, the protector reduces rub-off and scuffing of all suede and nubuck products. This video review will help you learn more about this shoe waterproofing spray.
Pros
- Does not alter the color of shoes
- Does not compromise breathability of the material
- Fast-drying formula
- Non-sticky formula
- Does not leave residue behind
Cons
- May run out pretty quickly
"It has saved my bags from coffee spills and keeps my footwear spotless in rainy weather. The application is straightforward and doesn't alter the appearance or feel of the treated items. Moreover, the multipurpose formula has been perfect for use on upholstery too."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It's no wonder that this quality product has earned over 7,477 positive reviews on Amazon.
3. Best Biodegradable:UGG Shoe Protector
The UGG shoe protector is fortified with water, resin blend, and preservatives, creating a protective barrier against future stains and preventing your shoes from early damage. It keeps your boots looking new and fresh. This best-selling stain-repellent shoe spray is biodegradable and devoid of any harmful chemicals or animal-based products.
Pros
- Protects against rain, snow, dirt
- Fast-drying formula
- Fine spray mist
- Virtually odorless
Cons
- May cause a slight color change
- Spray nozzle might be a little stiff
"This spray has been easy to use, and the quick drying time and absence of overpowering chemical smell are praiseworthy. It may take a few reapplications under harsh conditions, but the gentle formula does not damage the shoes. And just a small amount of it provides ample coverage."
Quick Tip4. Best Water-Resistant:Bickmore Gard-More Water & Stain Repellent Spray
The shoe guard spray is designed to provide a protective layer to your valuable goods made of suede, leather, felt, nubuck, fabric, and more. It gives a superior water-resistant treatment and protects them from stains and dirt while reducing rub-off and scuffing. The translucent layer of protection guards the material while keeping it breathable and flexible. Learn more about this shoe protector spray for leather shoes in this review video showcasing a reviewer’s experience with the product.
Pros
- Silicon-free formula
- Covers stains
- Offers even coverage
- Quick-drying formula
- Easy to use
Cons
- Might cause a slight color change
- Might not be suitable for raw-hide or unfinished leather
"It has helped extend the longevity of my suede boots and collection of cowboy hats. However, given its mild chemical scent, it would be best to use it in a ventilated area. Moreover, harsh weather has not altered its performance, so it has become a staple in my house."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product boasts 3,321 reviews on Amazon, and many buyers have said they would purchase the product again.
5. Best Anti-Fade:Crep Protect Shoe Protector Spray
The stain-resistant protectant spray works for your shoes, clothes, hats, and more. It provides a waterproof barrier on all products made of leather or suede. The six-ounce shoe shielding spray is good enough to last you for long. This shoe protector spray for sports shoes and sneakers provides a translucent coating and protects the material from getting damaged and prevents fading.
Pros
- Fast-drying formula
- Offers protection for up to four weeks
- No color bleeding
- Makes shoes water-resistant
- Scratch-proof
Cons
- Might not work on old shoes
- Overspraying it might saturate your shoes
"Keeping my sneakers clean has become effortless with this spray. It significantly boosts their resistance to dirt and water damage. Plus, the need for reapplication arises only every few months."
6. Best Invisible:Gold Standard Shoe Protector Spray
Walk confidently by wearing superfine shoes that repel water and dirt. Gold Standard Shoe Protector Spray creates an invisible shield to guard your shoes against water and stains. The trusted water-resistant shoe protector spray for canvas, nubuck, knit, and suede is easy to use. Use the spray at a distance of eight inches from the shoe and let it dry overnight for best results.
Pros
- Stain-resistant
- Fast-drying formula
- Safe for most shoes
- Does not leave a residue
- Easy to apply
Cons
- Might have a strong odor
- Seal might wear off after regular wear
"I've applied this spray on various items, from white sneakers to hiking boots, and it's always kept them dry. It requires occasional reapplication, but the kind of protection it provides has made it my preferred option for my home and outdoor adventure shoes."
RememberWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
About 2,205 reviewers on Amazon have given their seal of approval to the product.
7. Best High-Gloss:Moneysworth & Best Suede & Nubuck Protector
Compatible with all kinds and colors of smooth or grained leather, suede, and nubuck, this spray from Moneysworth & Best works great for your high-end accessories and shoes. It not only provides a translucent covering but also adds a high-gloss shine and leaves your purse, belts, or shoes as new as ever.
The tried-and-tested shoe protector spray for rainy weather is infused with lanolin, which helps condition the leather, while silicone provides a waterproof effect. The fast-drying product does not require any brushing or buffing and gives you a quick solution to adding shine to your leather shoe or dress.
Pros
- Offers UV protection
- Non-sticky formula
- Does not leave a residue
- Does not alter color
Cons
- Might not be stain-proof
- Might have a strong smell
"Besides safeguarding my shoes from rain and mud stains, the spray offered protection against UV rays and humidity. It may darken the leather a little, but this didn't concern me much. All in all, It's a tool I'll reach for to maintain my leather items."
8. Best For Light Spraying:Woosh Shoe Defender
Here’s a perfect spray to protect your shoes from water and stains and maintain their longevity. This is an ideal shoe protector spray for fabric, nubuck, and suede. Use the eight-ounce can to protect more than 15 pairs of shoes with two coats. Its drying time is only 15 minutes. As per reviews, a light application is recommended as over-spraying might cause the material to saturate.
Pros
- Does not leave a residue
- Silicone-free formula
- High-concentrate formula
- Supersized can
Cons
- Might not be suitable for leather
- Might not have a pleasant smell
"This shoe protector has comfortably kept dirt and water away from all my boots. It takes slightly longer to dry than my previous spray, but its solid performance has made me stick to it."
9. Best For Multiple Fabrics:Stir Technologies Soft Clad Fabric Protector Spray
The Soft Clad Fabric Protector Spray is designed for shoes, carpets, suede, leather, canvas, velvet, and more. This shoe care spray protects your footwear from stains and liquids and also protects your valuable clothing and upholstery.
Pros
- Safe for indoor-use
- Odorless
- Long-lasting protection
- Non-flammable
- A little goes a long way
Cons
- Bottle might not be sturdy enough
- Sprayer might not be user-friendly
"The spray has worked wonders to salvage my leather furniture from pen marks and food stains. It's easy to apply and dries quickly without any noticeable residue or odor. Plus, it has even come in handy to keep my carpets looking new."
10. Best Eco-Friendly:Cadillac Shield Water and Stain Repellent
The fine mist spray from Cadillac offers superior breathability and is safe for year-round use on shoes, boots, bags, and other apparel. Its fine coating protects your shoes from dirt, dust, and liquids. This shoe weatherproofing spray is manufactured with high-quality ingredients and is free of alcohol, silicone, and fluoropolymers. The product is compatible with all items made of suede, leather, fabric, canvas, nylon synthetic, etc.
Pros
- Non-aerosol
- Mild odor
- Easy to apply
- Safe for indoor-use
- Eco-friendly
Cons
- Might not be suitable for patent leather and vinyls
- Might not be long-lasting
"This spray has been a decent pick to protect my leather shoes and my nylon and polyester accessories from water and stains. It is also quick to dry, and although not leakproof, storing the can upright has kept that issue to a minimum."
Caution11. Best Long-Lasting:Sneaker Lab Shoe Protector Spray
Keep your shoes clean and fresh with Sneaker Lab Shoe Protector Spray. The polymer-based formula shields the fibers of your shoes and protects them from stains and water. The formula also prevents the shoes from premature fading due to harmful sun rays. It works on materials like suede, leather, and nubuck. A gentle spray on the shoe’s fabric creates an invisible barrier to protect your shoes and ensures a fresher look for a long-lasting glow.
Pros
- Biodegradable formula
- HDPE plastic bottle
- Soap-free formula
- Travel-friendly
Cons
- Might not be a fine mist spray
- Might not work on already-stained shoes
"The shoe protector has done a remarkable job of keeping my shoes spik and span. While I do have to reapply it more than once, I would still recommend it for its eco-friendly aspect and unbeatable performance."
12. Best Waterproof:Gear Aid Revivex Suede+Fabric Water Repellent
The all-season spray from Gear Aid protects your shoes from unwanted elements and makes them look as fresh as new. It works on suede, canvas, and nubuck materials. This protectant spray is waterproof and has breathable properties. Liked by many reviewers, this shoe protector spray for everyday use enhances the performance of your shoes and increases their lifespan.
Pros
- Silicone-free formula
- Non-aerosol
- Easy to apply
- Odorless
Cons
- Overspraying it might saturate your shoes
- Nozzle might be a little flimsy
"It has been a commendable companion to fend off moisture and maintain the appearance of my shoes through various scenarios, including beach weddings, downpours, and snowy sidewalks. It does have a light tint, so I recommend using it on darker shoes."
13. Best For Odorless:Solemates All Weather Protector
Solemates All Weather Protector ensures all your premium shoes are safe and well protected under different weather conditions. It is formulated to add a protective layer to your valued shoes and belongings, helping guard against water and stains. It works well for materials like suede, leather, and fabrics. The water-based formula is infused with natural carnauba wax and does not contain any harmful chemicals and harsh odor.
Pros
- Non-aerosol
- Does not alter the color
- Free of parabens and sulfates
- Cruelty-free
- Non-GMO
Cons
- Might leave a residue on some fabrics
- Some might not like the smell
"I've tried numerous shoe protectors, and this one stands out for its effectiveness, especially on leather and suede. It keeps shoes dry, even in snow, and the eco-conscious formula is a bonus. Just remember not to overspray."
14.Best For Breathable: Simple Shine Water + Stain Repellent Spray
The spray is safe for finished leather, reptile leather, suede, nubuck, and color-fast fabrics and creates a protective barrier to save your footwear and outerwear made of these materials. The breathable spray gives a translucent covering and dries quickly without leaving any residue. A hit among the reviewers, it is designed for all colors and keeps your shoes fade-free while extending their life.
Pros
- Dye-free formula
- Does not alter the texture of the material
- Does not leave a residue
- Safe formula
Cons
- Might not be suitable to use indoors
- Bottle might not be leak-proof
"This trustworthy option has been instrumental in making my suede boots and leather bags water-resistant. While it's straightforward to apply, I did notice that it allows mess-free application when sprayed from a slanted angle."
15. Best For Color-Preserving:Vetro Power Footwear Protector Spray
The non-toxic and fluorocarbon-free spray blocks all stains and liquids with just one application. Vetro Power footwear spray works on materials like suede, nubuck, nylon, synthetic, canvas, fabric, sheepskin, and Uggs. Its application does not change the color and texture of your shoes even after continuous use.
The spray is formulated with powerful nanotechnology and creates a transparent superhydrophobic shield to protect your shoes against unwanted stains from coffee, tea, wine, and more. This environment-friendly spray can protect up to four pairs of shoes over a year and ensures that your shoes remain in perfect condition.
Pros
- Water-based formula
- Skin-safe
- Maintains breathability
- Non-flammable
- Non-aerosol
Cons
- Might not be suitable for performance leather
- Pump might be a little hard to press
"The versatile compatibility of this liquid and stain-repellent has enabled me to use it with sneakers and my formal shoes. While its water resistance could have been better, it has made cleaning soiled shoes much more effortless."
16.Best For Easy-Application: Crisp Protect Shoe Protector Spray
The spray is designed to provide armor-like protection and waterproofing for different types of shoes, outerwear, backpacks, and hats. Crisp Protect spray is suitable for nylon, suede, canvas, and leather. This advanced formula prevents any dirt and grime from spoiling your shoes and keeps their breathable barrier intact. The application is a breeze, and you’ll see its effective result after a drying time of just 30 minutes.
Pros
- Hydrophobic formula
- Fast-drying
- Long-lasting formula
- Prevents fading or discoloration
- Clean packaging
Cons
- Spray nozzle might be a little flimsy
"I recommend this spray for its sheer versatility. It comes in handy to protect my shoes, clothes, and accessories regardless of the kind of material they are made of. A better spray mechanism would have made it easy to cover large areas, but the spray has been dependable overall."
17. Best For Uv-Resistant:Nanoman Shoe Protector Spray
Nanoman shoe-protector spray is a non-toxic and eco-friendly formula that keeps your shoes breathable and does not leave any bad odor. It is a waterproof formula and is suitable for all weather conditions. Offering quality assurance, the liquid spray is easy to apply and takes around 24-hours to be completely cured. The UV-protective spray does not fade the color even after wearing it for long under the sun.
Pros
- VOC-free
- Long-lasting
- Skin-safe
- Pet-friendly and food-safe
- Transparent color
Cons
- Might not be fully stain-proof
- Bottle might be a little small
"I found this formula reliable for protecting our handbags and everyday shoes from water damage. Though its effectiveness on mesh is yet to be tested, it works well on suede and leather. Moreover, it doesn't seem to alter the texture or color of fabrics, which is a big plus."
18.Best For Durability: Red Moose Genuine Mink Oil Spray
The waterproof leather shoe protector from Red Moose softens and preserves your shoes and boots made of leather and vinyl. The unique advanced formula lubricates fibers to enhance the flexibility and durability of leather products. It adds shine and prevents any cracks and drying to keep your shoes soft and supple. You can use this versatile formula for belts, wallets, horse saddles, leather gloves, furniture, etc.
Pros
- Conditions and protects your leather
- Convenient aerosol spray
- Provides quick results
- Revives color
- Long-lasting
Cons
- Might not work on suede boots or nubuck
- Might need weekly touch-ups for some materials
"Its all-natural formulation is what appealed to me. Besides, it has done an excellent job of weatherproofing and waterproofing my shoes. And the drip-free nozzle makes the application mess-free."
19.Best Transparent: Tarrago Nano Shoe Protector Spray
The high-performance spray is formulated with innovative nanotechnology to protect your shoes from dirt and liquids and offer breathability. A single spray on your shoes creates a transparent layer to ensure that there is no dirt or water on the surface of your shoes. This effective product is suitable for suede, leather, nubuck, etc.
Pros
- Quick-drying formula
- Colorless spray
- Silicone-free formula
- Available in 250ml and 400ml cans
Cons
- Might not be suitable for metalized leather
- Might not work on mesh fabric
"I am pretty happy with its performance, especially on Nubuck and suede shoes. It may take a thick coating to work on leather shoes, but the colorless liquid dries transparent, so there have been no problems with my footwear discoloring."
20.Best For Safe: Griffin Western Boot Water & Stain Repellent
The water and stain repellent from Griffin is designed to keep your shoes and boots safe in harsh weather conditions. It creates an invisible protective layer to protect the quality craftsmanship of your shoes from stains and water and is made of safe ingredients that protect both your shoes and the environment. The premium formula does not change the appearance of your shoes and prevents any fading.
Pros
- No added dye
- Non-sticky and silicone-free formula
- On-off valve under the trigger
- Easy to use
Cons
- Spray cap might be a little flimsy
"I opted for this stain-repellent due to its gentle formulation. While it has been efficient, its spray trigger could have been more user-friendly. Nevertheless, it gets the job done in just a few spritzes and does not darken the leather, which is a huge bonus."
How To Choose The Right Shoe Protector Spray?
Here are a few factors you should consider to ensure you choose the right shoe protector spray.
- Material: Some shoe protectors are compatible with all fabrics, leather or suede, while some are made for specific use only. Hence consider the shoe fabric or material that your shoe is made of.
- Functions: Most shoe protectors add a protective coating to the shoe’s surface, while some only resist stain, and others make your shoes waterproof. Decide the purpose of your use before you decide to buy.
- Formula: Some shoe-protecting sprays use harsh chemicals and should be used only in ventilated areas as they are harmful to the environment. To minimize pollution, use preferably environmental-friendly products made with natural ingredients.
- Multifunctional: While some sprays are specially made for shoes, others can be used for other products, including handbags, belts, carpets, etc. If you need a versatile spray, then choose a product that will fit your needs.
- Usability: Shoes worn during snow or rainy season require frequent application. The effect of shoe protector spray depends on different factors. Read the manufacturer’s recommendations with regards to the application.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does silicone spray work on shoes?
Yes, a silicone spray does work on shoes. Silicone sprays create a thin protective layer over your shoes, protecting them from stains and scratches for long.
2. How should I keep my shoes looking new?
You can keep your shoes looking new by spraying them with a shoe protectant spray and storing them in an appropriate place after every use.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Poulami Nag is a passionate writer who reviews clothing, shoes, and jewelry. After in-depth performance testing, she brings you a list of the best shoe protector sprays to help you keep your favorite pairs of shoes safe. The best-selling options listed here protect your shoes from water and stains and can be used on different materials, including suede, leather, nubuck, and fabrics. Moreover, she also offers tips on choosing the right product.
The best shoe protector sprays against water and stains can help your shoes look good as new by keeping a check on water and stains. To choose one that goes well with your shoes, look at the ingredients that determine the odor and longevity of the spray and are suitable for a particular shoe type. You can opt for one that does not contain harmful chemicals or animal-based products, does not emit harsh fragrances, and has a lasting effect.
Infographic: How To Use A Shoe Protector Spray Properly?
Shoe protector sprays are the ultimate defense against stains, dirt, and water damage for your beloved footwear, keeping them clean, fresh, and protected with just a simple spray. Refer to the infographic below to learn how to protect your shoes using the spray efficiently.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
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