UKC

I just bought a new pair of nubuck leather boots from mountain warehouse. The guy at the shop recommended dubbin wax for waterproofing them but now that I'm home and have googled this seems to be a contentious issue and I'm confused.

Is it OK to proof them with dubbin or not? Also, what is even the point of nubuck leather as it seems to be more hassle and less waterproof than normal leather.

Nubuck looks nice to begin with and it cheaper than full grain leather. I just waxed my old Scarpa nubuck boots with gwax and they survived 15 years until the sole wore thin.

My understanding is that nubuck is a more breathable finish than full grain. Treating it with wax will change the appearance to something similar to full grain anyway.

Interesting you bought your boots from Mountain Warehouse as this is on the MW website -

https://www.mountainwarehouse.com/expert-advice/how-to-apply-dubbing-wax/

 - which says -

"Dubbing wax shouldn’t be used on suede or nubuck leather due to its oily formula but is ideal for rejuvenating waxy leathers exposed to outdoor wear."

Dave