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Waterproofing....I need your advice

gerardcarey

Veteran Member
Time of past OR future Camino
CFx2, CPx1
I hate wet feet. Mine, when they get wet they fall apart.
Now that's a problem that's half solved by waterproof footwear.
The problem is that socks act like a wick and conduct the water inside.
So my options are to carry waterproof trousers or gaiters, but I don't want to carry either.
I'm a Altus wearer which gives protection to just under the knees, to the area where the lower section of my zip-off trousers begin.
My plan is to waterproof just the zip-off lower section of the trousers to protect my socks, leaving the upper section breathable and comfortable.
The fabric used in these lightweight trousers is usually nylon or some synthetic fabric.
I would appreciate recommendations on what waterproofing products to use.
TIA
Regds
Gerard

 
Last edited:
3rd Edition. More content, training & pack guides avoid common mistakes, bed bugs etc
Nikwax spray on waterproof works well, or the wash in variety which may last a few washes. I have used both in the past.

The wash in type can be more opaque and change the colour of the trousers so if using that I suggest washing the whole garment. A light iron completes the process and also can refresh it. You would need to check the instructions for your trousers and the waterproofer to make sure that they are compatible.

The spray type is also easy to use - we sprayed the lining of our reversible fleeces to make them shower proof as they are non-iron. It worked well and they turn light rain. It also claims to be breathable.

Our own trousers are shower proof anyway but I still prefer to carry fairly lightweight waterproof and breathable trousers for when it is really raining, or cold. They are long enough to come down ove the lacing on my boots so keep the water out well. However if you really don't want to carry them then I think proofing at least the trouser bottoms would help. Just check that the rain will not run off them and into your boots.
 
A selection of Camino Jewellery
It's very hard to keep your feet dry in the variety of conditions you experience on the Camino: rain, sweat, streams and puddles. I've found that using a good pair of socks (wool/synthetic blend) and coating my feet with Vaseline has worked the best to keep my feet dry and blister free. I hope this helps. Good Luck and Buen Camino!
 
Maybe you're ready to try this:

Wish you happy feet ;)
 
Maybe you're ready to try this:

Wish you happy feet ;)

Awesome. you´ve just found the solution for us all KinkyOne. All we need to do is have a bath in it and no more problems with rain.:rolleyes:

Hahahahahahahahahahaha

Buen Camino!
 
Ideal sleeping bag liner whether we want to add a thermal plus to our bag, or if we want to use it alone to sleep in shelters or hostels. Thanks to its mummy shape, it adapts perfectly to our body.

€46,-
Sealskinz are a company that makes socks and gloves, they are totally waterproof and very cosy, I use both - often (I do live in England...)
 
Which sealskibz do you use? I find the water gets in after a bit

Andy
 
...and ship it to Santiago for storage. You pick it up once in Santiago. Service offered by Casa Ivar (we use DHL for transportation).

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