Immediately when you think of the greatest winter or construction boots on the market today, your mind goes to the Timberland brand. Timberlands have developed and expanded as a shoemaker over the years, not only dominating the construction world but breaking into the fashion world too. With the rise in popularity of Timberlands, many first time buyers wonder if they are waterproof?
Timberland offer waterproof work boots and hiking boots in a variety of styles and materials. Gore-Tex or TimberDry membranes, waterproof leathers, and seam-sealed construction techniques are all utilized to make Timberland boots totally waterproof, depending on your selected pair. However it should be noted that the entire Timberland range isn’t waterproof, unless specified, as they have expanded into sneakers and shoes, some of which are only ‘light rain resistant’.
Their classic boot is waterproof, which is a relief to many. See what Timberland themselves have to say about the waterproof construction of their classic 6-inch boot here.
I personally own these boots and have found them to be totally waterproof, although I do also make sure to treat them with my Timberland waterproofing spray, just to be sure. My thinking is a few extra dollars for waterproofing ‘insurance’ isn’t bad. Timbs aren’t cheap and I want to take the best care of mine!
You can pick up their waterproofing spray here.
Timberlands also have a super tough, ‘Titan EV waterproof work boot’ that is designed to keep your feet super dry, that you can take a look at here. This boot is perfect for those who like something heavy duty.
The original design was not meant to be a fashion statement. Timberland catered more to construction workers, farmers, and some wanting solid and well-made footwear that could handle harsh conditions and weather. The Titan EV boot certainly does that.
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Are All Timberlands Waterproof?
In 1968 Injection moulding was brought to the footwear business by the Swartz family. This process produced watertight boots by fusing the soles to the leather without stitches. The first Timberland waterproof boots were created in 1973 thanks to this injection moulding method, which was unheard of and a game changer in the footwear industry.
When the footwear market started to grow, Timberland followed and designed other shoes that competed in the shoe industry. Timberland does not waterproof every shoe in their collection, and if you want all-weather footwear, double-check the product description available on their website before buying a pair. Although not all Timberland shoes are waterproof, their entire range is still made to a very high standard.
The exceptional Timberland yellow 6″ classic boot is tough, well-made, and capable of withstanding any weather and sets a new standard for waterproof performance footwear in the shoe industry.
Outdoor enthusiasts, trade professionals, farmers, and many others who desire stylish boots love Timberlands for their:
- Toughness
- Reliability
- Protection in all weather conditions
Specifically, the Timberland six-inch boot is waterproof and is a favorite with construction workers and consumers who desire a shoe that keeps their feet dry. Timberlands pride themselves in its waterproof technology and have proven over the years that its shoes, especially the six-inch boot, can withstand any weather conditions.
Timberland boots are the company’s trademark because all the success and popularity started with the Timberland waterproof boot. Timberland sales exploded after it’s release, and the boot became so popular that the company renamed itself after the iconic boot ‘Timberland’ in 1978.
The Best Waterproof Timberland Boot
The first Timberland boots were extremely durable and made to withstand enormous water exposure before your feet would get wet. Today that iconic boot evolved and is known as the Timberland six-inch waterproof boot.
Timberland Six-Inch Waterproof Boot
If you want an iconic, durable and totally waterproof boot, Timberland has the “six-inch” manufactured to keep your feet dry through rain, snow, and just about anything wet you can throw at it. Known for its wheat color, the brand has expanded the color range to:
- Purple
- Green
- Black
- Pink
The Timberland six-inch boot has a leather cuff that cushions your ankle to keep the heat inside and prevent water from entering the boot from the top.
The six-inch boot nicknamed “Timbs” have Teslin nylon laces and a grip stick rubber lug sole that adds to the boots’ ability to handle all wet weather conditions.
Timberlands Use Recycled Plastic And Nubuck Leather
Weighing roughly two pounds, the six-inch premiums, also called Timbs, are legendary. Two pounds is a bit heavy for a boot, but all the insolation technology that goes into manufacturing the Timberland six-inch boot to make it waterproof is worth the weight.
A company called Prima Loft supplies the insulation for the Timberland six-inch boot. More than half of the manufactured insolation that goes into the boot comes from recycled plastic bottles.
Timberland boots are made from Nubuck leather and are often mistaken for Suede because it has a similar texture. Suede is the inside of the leather, and Nubuck is the grain side of the leather that is sanded or buffed to give it a NAP of protein fibers. The Nubuck leather is treated, making the Timberland six-inch boot extremely waterproof.
How Are Timberland Boots Waterproofed?
Timberland producers use the best materials to create waterproof boots for both men and women. Seam-sealed construction methods, Gore-Tex or TimberDry membranes, and waterproof leather are employed to guarantee superior quality and longevity. Here is an explanation of the materials and how they add to the waterproofing of the boots, starting with Timberdry Technology.
TimberDry Technology
The boot is equipped with TimberDry Technology, which has a waterproof membrane that helps it resist unwelcome moisture.
The waterproof membrane has a fascinating manufacturing prosses because it is made from 50% recycled plastic. That soda bottle you throw away today could be part of someone’s Timberland boot tomorrow.
Timberland boots use waterproof bootie construction, and this fabric has a consistency akin to cellophane. The boot seam is sealed with specialized waterproof membrane tape, forming a watertight barrier.
Gore-Tex Membrane
The fundamental element of Gore-Tex is stretched polytetrafluoroethylene, popularly known as Teflon. Gore-Tex, a waterproof, breathable fabric membrane created by W. L. Gore & Associates, allows water vapor to pass through the fabric so that your feet may breathe while also repelling heavy rain to keep your feet dry in wet weather.
Seam-Sealed Construction
Timberland waterproof boots use waterproof constructions with a breathable layer as a lining between your foot and the outer parts of the footwear. A waterproof breathable layer is a multi-layered lining fabric known as a waterproof breathable fabric.
Panels of waterproof, breathable cloth are joined and sealed at the seams. A waterproof bootie is one type of liner used by Timberland boots and completely encloses the foot to keep your feet dry. Instead of extending to the underfoot as in the bootie, a different variety known as a non-bootie seal to other waterproof materials in the sole region.
Waterproof breathable fabric panels have multiple layers, each with a specific function, providing durability, waterproofness, or even aesthetic appeal. Sometimes a thin coating may serve as the breathable layer in place of a membrane.
A thin, delicate, well-protected waterproof covering is required to transfer water vapor between the thin, breathable layer and the shoe upper. Timberland boots’ outermost layer offers durability and resistance against water.
Timberland boots use the best technology and products to waterproof their boots, and Seam-sealed construction is a method that gives these boots every advantage to keep your feet dry.
Injection Molding Technique
The direct injection method, also known as DIP or Direct Injection, is utilized by Timberland manufacturers to directly attach the outsole and upper of their boots. The outsole of Timberland boots is fused using a direct injection method rather than stitching, resulting in a boot that does not allow water to seep through where the sole meets the top.
Water entering most shoes occurs between the sole, and the upper, and Timberland uses injection molding to solve this issue. Since the sole and upper of their boots are sealed, Timberland manufacturers concentrate on waterproofing the upper to completely waterproof their boots.
What Material Are Timberland Boots Made Of?
Although the well-known Timberland Boot is composed of Nubuck leather, several other materials are also employed to guarantee that each pair operates to its full potential. Boots are typically constructed of leather or Suede, and while leather can occasionally be stiff, Suede expands easily. The makers of Timberland boots chose to employ Nubuck, or the best of both worlds of leather.
Leathers Used To Make Timberland Boots
Nubuck is exterior leather sanded to give it a Suede-like look. However, it still possesses the durability and waterproof qualities required to make a comfortable and long-lasting boot. Timberland uses leather from tanneries that are LWG silver- or gold-rated and adhere to environmental best practices.
Whether a Timberland boot is designed for work, play, fashion, or hiking determines the leather used for the upper. Designers at Timberland consider Suede for an opulent appearance and feel, as well as strong full-grain leather that is robust and long-lasting for work and hiking boots.
Glove leather, which is smooth, soft, and a particularly malleable hide, is used in the interiors of Timberland shoes. The lining’s addition of Glove leather gives it strength and structure, feels very soft on the foot, and shortens the break-in period that all new shoes require.
Customers expect long-lasting products from the Timberland brand because it is known for producing high-quality goods. To provide optimal traction, waterproofing, and durability for all of their customers to enjoy everywhere, Timberland uses soles produced from injection-molded rubber.
How To Take Care Of Waterproof Timberlands
To keep Timberland footwear waterproof through all weather conditions, especially the waterproof boots, constant maintenance is required. Here are some guidelines to maintain the condition of your Timberland boots.
How To Dry Timberland Boots
Avoid drying your Timberland boots close to a warm fire or on the radiator if they are wet. Overheating dries the leather quickly and stiffens the boot to keep the shape it was when wet. When you wear a miss-shaped boot again, it could irritate your feet. When it dries, insert a shoehorn to maintain the shape so the boot will not be miss-shaped the following day.
How To Clean And Care For Timberland Boots
Avoiding the buildup of extra dirt is a crucial step in maintaining the aesthetic appeal of your Timberlands. To frequently remove dust and filth, use a Suede brush or rubber sole brush; if you don’t have one, a soft cloth or duster will do.
Use a gentle leather soap to remove any marks or tough stains, then rinse them clean. You can also use a Dry-Cleaning Kit to clean your Timberland boot. A buffing bar and nylon brush set in a dry-cleaning kit remove grime and stains. Take off your laces to reach all the tiny places where dirt collects.
Protecting And Conditioning Timberland Boots
Timberlands should not be treated with leather conditioner or wax. Most waterproof shoes respond well to wax and conditioner, which softens and protects oiled and waxed leathers without sacrificing breathability. Timberland boots recommend a product designed for their boots.
Balm Proofer All Purpose Protector is the ideal product to restore water repellency because Timberland boots are constructed of Nubuck. Balm Proofer All Purpose offers water and stain resistance without compromising the boots’ breathability. Apply the Protector to your Timberland boots, and wait 24 to 48 hours before wearing them again.
When Did Timberland Become Popular?
Since their debut in 1973, Timberland six-inch boots, known as “Timbs,” have changed. The waterproof boot, created as a robust footwear for farmers and construction workers, has gained popularity in the hip-hop community. Timberland boots have become extremely popular since they first appeared in Hip-Hop songs and on the feet of celebrities like The Notorious BIG.
Because the designer never intended for the boots to be worn by rappers, the history of Timberland boots in Hip-Hop circles did not start well. Initially, the company tried to dissociate itself and its Timberland boot from the Hip-Hop community because they were far from the target market.
The Hip-Hop scene unexpectedly became a big fan of Timberland boots, and the brand now heavily associates with the subculture. A Hip-Hop music video today would be hard to imagine without Timberland boots. The Timberland boot has expanded to new markets worldwide because it became an iconic figure in Hip-Hop.
Although Timberland initially produced boots only for workers, the six-inch boot has since become a recognized classic.
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Lorna is a footwear geek and the founder of Wearably Weird. She created a YouTube channel in 2021 for fellow footwear fanatics, dedicated to detail-rich footwear reviews and info. She has a fashion media qualification (awarded in 2011).