Shoe treatment?

[Orafo]

Does anyone pack wax or other waterproofing or restoration treatment for one's hiking shoes? Or for that matter, a small brush to get rid of dried mud? I want to take care of my footwear, but I'm concerned about unnecessary weight.

 

[Morning Glory]

Hello Orafo,
We are in the process of packing now and threw in an extra toothbrush for dealing with dried mud on the breathable (Gortex) parts of our boots. We did not pack wax or other waterproofing as we've not had problems with socks getting wet except for when spending too much time standing in shallow water, as we did recently while out fishing. Not expecting to go fishing while on the Camino, but we do expect rain at some point. Hope this helps.
Buen Camino........MG

 

[Orafo]

Thanks, Morning Glory. I'm inclined to leave behind the waterproofing (the shoes are Goretex -- it's mainly a matter of taking care of them, but I imagine after the Camino I may be ready to ditch them!). A little brush seems to be a good idea.
Buen camino! Perhaps I'll see you en route, though I imagine I'll be (and remain) behind you.

 

[dougfitz]

I wear leather boots, and bring a small brush (Colorado) and waterproofing (Nikwax or similar). If the boots get wet or dirty, I clean and re-treat.

Regards

 

[Orafo]

Thanks, dougfitz. That seems prudent, if one wants to take care of one's footwear. Nikwax is good; lately I've been using an Italian product called "Hydrobloc," by Zamberlan. I may end up just squeezing some of it into a smaller, lighter, container and using it sparingly.

 

[Tia Valeria]

We have a very small brush to remove mud from the seams and soles. At home we use 'Renapur' wax to re-proof the boots (leather). We thoroughly rub a small sponge in the wax and carry it in a plastic bag for re-proofing en route. A small amount in a plastic pot would also be light to carry for a long Camino.