Waterproof shoes (such as GORE-TEX) are designed to protect your feet from water while remaining breathable. Their performance is based on two key elements:
- A waterproof and breathable membrane that acts as a physical barrier, preventing water from passing through while allowing water vapor produced by the body to escape.
- A water-repellent (DWR) surface treatment, which is a chemical treatment that acts as a barrier so that water beads up on the product and does not penetrate the fabric.
Water repellency may decrease over time, but the product remains waterproof thanks to its membrane. However, if water repellency decreases, comfort also decreases (feeling cold and damp).
If you feel cold and damp, reapply the treatment if necessary.