Are Down Boots Waterproof? What Water-Repellent Means
No, Flufié down boots are not waterproof. They have a water-repellent outer shell, which sheds light moisture such as snow and drizzle but does not keep water out if the boot is soaked or submerged. They are made for cold days and light snow, not for puddles, standing water or deep slush.
What is the difference between water-repellent and waterproof?
A water-repellent fabric is treated so that water beads up and rolls off the surface instead of soaking in right away. It handles brief contact with moisture. A waterproof product is built to block water completely, even under pressure or when submerged. Those are different levels of protection, and we describe our boots as water-repellent because that is what they are.
Why does it matter for down?
Goose down keeps you warm by holding air. When down gets wet, it clumps and holds less air, so it insulates less. The water-repellent shell is there to keep everyday moisture away from the down so the boot stays warm. Keeping the boot from getting soaked is the best way to protect its warmth, which reaches down to -22°F.
When can I wear down boots?
- Good conditions: dry cold, frost, light snow and a short walk through drizzle.
- Use care: wet sidewalks and melting snow. Wipe the boots and let them dry afterward.
- Avoid: puddles, standing water, deep slush and long walks in heavy rain.
The slip-resistant sole helps on cold sidewalks. You can see all styles in our boots collection.
What should I do if my boots get wet?
Wipe off any dirt with a damp cloth and let the boots dry at room temperature. Keep them away from radiators, heaters and direct sunlight, because heat can loosen the adhesives. Do not put them in the washing machine. More tips are on our product care page.
Is the Flufié sneaker water-repellent too?
Yes. The sneaker has a quilted suede upper with a water-repellent coating, integrated arch support and a thin, flexible sole. Like the boots, it is water-repellent, not waterproof. See the sneaker collection.
Frequently asked questions
Can I wear Flufié down boots in the snow?
Yes, in light snow. The water-repellent shell sheds snow. Avoid deep slush and standing water.
Can I wear them in the rain?
A short walk in light rain is fine. They are not waterproof, so they are not made for heavy rain or puddles.
Will wet down lose its warmth?
Down holds less air when it is wet. Let the boots dry fully at room temperature before you wear them again.
Can I dry my boots on a radiator?
No. Heat can loosen the adhesives. Let them dry at room temperature.