Best Waterproofing Spray for Suede New Balance 990v5
The New Balance 990v5 is a staple in both the sneaker and lifestyle communities. With its premium suede panels, ENCAP midsole, and refined design, it’s a sneaker that blends performance, comfort, and style. The one challenge for suede owners? Moisture. Rain, snow, or even a casual coffee spill can quickly ruin the soft nap of suede.
That’s where waterproofing sprays come in. A good spray doesn’t just repel water—it preserves the texture, color, and overall life of your sneakers. In this guide, we break down the best waterproofing sprays for suede, explain how to use them safely, and offer practical tips to keep your 990v5s looking fresh without sacrificing their premium feel.
Why Suede Needs Special Care
Suede differs from other leather or synthetic materials in key ways:
- Delicate texture: Suede has an open, fibrous surface. Harsh chemicals or incorrect sprays can flatten, discolor, or stiffen the material.
- High absorbency: Moisture penetrates quickly, leaving water stains and dark spots.
- Visible wear: Scuffs, dirt, and watermarks are more noticeable on light-colored suede.
Because of this, waterproofing sprays for suede need to be specifically formulated for delicate fibers. Standard leather sprays or all-purpose water repellents can leave residue, alter color, or reduce breathability.
What to Look for in a Suede Waterproofing Spray
Not all sprays are created equal. When selecting the best option for your New Balance 990v5, consider:
1. Material Safety
The spray should be safe for suede and nubuck. It shouldn’t stiffen the nap, darken the color, or leave a sticky residue.
2. Water and Stain Repellency
A quality spray protects against rain, snow, dirt, and oil-based stains. Longer-lasting formulas are preferable for sneakers that see frequent wear.
3. Breathability
Suede needs to “breathe.” A waterproof coating that seals the material too heavily can trap moisture inside, leading to odor, mold, or faster wear.
4. Ease of Application
Look for sprays with even atomizers that provide consistent coverage without oversaturating the suede.
5. Longevity
Some sprays require reapplication every few weeks, while premium formulas last months. Consider your lifestyle and frequency of use.
Top Waterproofing Sprays for Suede New Balance 990v5
We’ve tested and reviewed the leading sprays for delicate suede sneakers. Here’s how they compare:
1. Crep Protect Spray
Overview: Crep Protect is a well-known sneaker-specific waterproofing spray that works effectively on suede, leather, and mesh.
Pros:
- Lightweight, invisible barrier
- Repels water and light stains without altering texture
- Quick-drying
Cons:
- Needs reapplication after several wears
- Can be pricey compared to generic sprays
Why it’s great for the 990v5:
Crep Protect creates a protective layer that lets your suede breathe, keeping the soft texture intact while safeguarding against urban moisture.
Pro tip: Apply two light coats instead of one heavy coat to maintain the nap.
2. Jason Markk Repel Spray
Overview: Jason Markk Repel Spray is designed for premium sneakers and delicate materials. It’s highly recommended for suede, nubuck, and premium leather.
Pros:
- Non-yellowing, safe for light-colored suede
- Provides long-lasting water and stain protection
- Eco-friendly, non-toxic formula
Cons:
- Slightly more expensive than mass-market sprays
- Best results require a clean sneaker before application
Why it’s great for the 990v5:
Jason Markk Repel Spray maintains the soft hand feel of the 990v5’s suede while delivering reliable protection for rainy days or accidental spills.
Application tip: Hold the can about 6–8 inches from the shoe and spray in short bursts for even coverage.
3. Reshoevn8r Water & Stain Repellent
Overview: Reshoevn8r is a veteran in sneaker care, and their spray works particularly well on delicate suede materials.
Pros:
- Strong water and stain repellency
- Non-toxic, dries clear
- Works on multiple materials including suede, nubuck, canvas, and leather
Cons:
- Spray nozzle may require adjustment to avoid pooling
- Needs drying for 24 hours before wearing for maximum protection
Why it’s great for the 990v5:
It’s ideal for sneakerheads who want a professional-grade solution that can protect against snow, rain, and street grime without compromising the sneaker’s look.
Pro tip: Use on freshly cleaned sneakers for the best results. Pair with Reshoevn8r’s cleaning solution to prep the suede before application.
4. Kiwi Protect-All Spray
Overview: Kiwi is a more budget-friendly option that still performs well on suede.
Pros:
- Affordable and widely available
- Provides decent water resistance
- Easy to apply
Cons:
- May slightly darken lighter suede
- Not as long-lasting as premium sprays
Why it’s great for the 990v5:
For casual wearers who want basic protection without splurging, Kiwi Protect-All provides a good barrier against water and dirt.
Tip: Test on a small, hidden area first to ensure no darkening occurs.
5. Tarrago Nano Protect Spray
Overview: Tarrago Nano Protect Spray uses nanotechnology to provide deep, invisible water and stain protection.
Pros:
- Strong, long-lasting protection
- Maintains natural feel of suede
- Invisible finish
Cons:
- Higher learning curve for first-time users
- More expensive than budget sprays
Why it’s great for the 990v5:
Nano Protect provides high-end protection for collectors or sneaker enthusiasts who wear their 990v5s frequently in urban environments.
Pro tip: Apply outdoors or in a well-ventilated space. Let dry completely for 24 hours before use.
Step-by-Step Guide: Applying Waterproofing Spray to Suede 990v5
Proper application ensures maximum protection without damaging the suede.
Step 1: Clean Your Sneakers
- Remove dirt and debris using a soft suede brush or a microfiber cloth.
- For stubborn stains, use a sneaker-specific cleaning solution like Jason Markk Premium Sneaker Cleaner or Reshoevn8r Sneaker Solution.
- Let shoes dry completely before waterproofing.
Step 2: Choose Your Spray
- Pick one of the sprays above based on your preference, budget, and expected exposure to moisture.
Step 3: Apply Light, Even Coats
- Hold the spray 6–8 inches from the sneaker.
- Use sweeping motions, covering the entire suede surface evenly.
- Avoid saturating the material—two light coats are better than one heavy coat.
Step 4: Let the Sneakers Dry
- Dry for at least 12–24 hours at room temperature.
- Avoid sunlight or heat sources, which can stiffen or discolor suede.
Step 5: Reapply as Needed
- Depending on wear, reapply every 4–6 weeks or after cleaning.
- For daily wear in wet conditions, consider more frequent applications.
Additional Tips for Suede Care
- Use a Suede Brush Regularly
- Restore the nap after cleaning or spraying.
- Prevents flat or shiny spots caused by moisture or friction.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals
- Never use bleach or all-purpose cleaning sprays on suede.
- Stick to sneaker-safe solutions to maintain texture and color.
- Store Properly
- Keep shoes in a cool, dry area.
- Use shoe trees to maintain shape and reduce creasing.
- Immediate Spot Treatment
- Dab spills with a clean microfiber cloth.
- Avoid rubbing, which can embed stains.
Comparing the Sprays: Which One Should You Choose?
| Spray | Material Safety | Water Resistance | Longevity | Ease of Use | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Crep Protect | Excellent | Moderate | 3–4 weeks | Easy | Medium |
| Jason Markk Repel | Excellent | Strong | 4–6 weeks | Easy | Premium |
| Reshoevn8r | Excellent | Very Strong | 6–8 weeks | Moderate | Premium |
| Kiwi Protect-All | Good | Moderate | 2–3 weeks | Easy | Budget |
| Tarrago Nano Protect | Excellent | Strong | 8+ weeks | Moderate | Premium |
Recommendation: For regular wearers, Jason Markk Repel or Reshoevn8r offer the best balance of protection, safety, and longevity. For collectors or occasional wear, Tarrago Nano Protect is ideal. Budget-conscious users can still get decent protection with Kiwi Protect-All, but expect more frequent reapplications.
Conclusion
Waterproofing your New Balance 990v5 is essential to preserve the suede, protect your investment, and keep your sneakers looking pristine. By choosing the right spray and following proper application techniques, you can enjoy both style and performance without worrying about rain or street grime.
Top Picks Recap:
- Jason Markk Repel: Best for daily wear and light-colored suede.
- Reshoevn8r Water & Stain Repellent: Professional-grade protection for frequent use.
- Tarrago Nano Protect: Premium, long-lasting solution for collectors.
- Crep Protect Spray: Lightweight, sneaker-specific protection.
- Kiwi Protect-All: Budget-friendly option for casual wearers.
Pair your spray with proper cleaning, regular brushing, and careful storage to maximize the life of your 990v5s. Waterproofing is not just about surviving the rain—it’s about maintaining the texture, color, and overall premium feel of your suede sneakers.