Weather in some parts of the world can be unpredictable. One moment, you see the bright sunshine; the next, it becomes gloomy. A few minutes later, you hear the sound of thunder, indicating approaching showers.
Imagine experiencing this typical mood swing of the weather when you are out in your favorite leather jacket. Your first worrying thought will be: Can you wear a leather jacket in the rain?
Well, it’s natural to be careful about the well-being of your all-important leather jacket. And in this post, you will get a detailed answer regarding leather safety in the rain.
Is it Safe to Wear a Leather Jacket in the rain?
Understandably, nobody purposely runs into a storm and gets wet with their high-end leather jacket. And the good news is that rare exposure to rain or wet weather doesn’t cause any harm to the jacket.
However, if it happens more frequently, the water can deplete its natural oils over time, making it brittle and likely to start cracking. Hence, we advise you to keep your leather jacket protected in such weather conditions by carrying an umbrella with you.
And, of course, there are some other tips and care techniques that you can apply to enhance the lifespan and performance of your jacket.
What Can You Do to Protect the Leather Jacket in Rain?
Let’s walk you through some of the finest ways to preserve the quality of your leather jacket in the rainy season:
Leather Conditioning
This is one of the key tips for maintaining the look and feel of your leather jacket in the rain. When you have a protective covering on the jacket, you enjoy peace of mind that even if it rains and some parts of the jacket get wet, the protective layer will prevent the water from seeping into it.
You can apply a beeswax cream that protects against rain and spills. The conditioning process maintains the leather’s suppleness and reduces the risk of stains and water-related damage.
Waxing
Still, worried about the well-being of your leather jacket in the rain? You can take an extra step of precaution and wax it. Waxing offers multifaceted benefits in terms of water protection.
It creates a hydrophobic barrier, repelling water and preventing its absorption into the leather fibers. This way, waxing not only safeguards the jacket from rain but also enhances its durability, making it more resistant to stains and moisture-induced damage.
Additionally, waxed leather ages gracefully, developing a unique patina over time, adding to the jacket’s aesthetic appeal while maintaining its functionality.
Apply a Silicone Spray
One of the simple ways to protect your leather jacket in the rain from getting wet is using a Silicone spray. Firstly, it is a protective barrier, safeguarding the leather against moisture and water damage. Also, the Silicone spray enhances the jacket’s water resistance without compromising its appearance.
It is particularly useful for preventing squeaks and noise in leather jackets. Additionally, Silicone spray can soften and condition the leather, increasing the jacket’s lifespan and maintaining its natural luster.
Dry Your Leather Jacket in the Rain Thoroughly
Protecting your leather jacket in the rain can be easy if you know how to dry and store it once it gets wet. Properly drying a wet leather jacket after exposure to rain maintains its longevity and appearance.
Thorough drying prevents the formation of water stains and spots on the leather, ensuring a neat and sleek look. It also mitigates the risk of mold or mildew growth, which can adversely impact the jacket’s aesthetics and structural integrity.
By promptly drying the jacket, you protect it from potential damage caused by exposure to rainwater.
Are There Waterproof Leather Jackets to Wear in the Rain?
Naturally, leather jackets are not waterproof. However, some types of leather offer minimal water resistance. Let’s discuss some common leather jacket types and their ability to withstand water exposure without damage.
Full-grain leather jackets
Generally, full-grain leather is known for its durability and natural appearance. Full-grain leather jackets in the rain can withstand occasional exposure to water but may absorb it over time when it is intense, potentially causing damage to the jacket.
Top-grain leather jackets
Top-grain leather is slightly more durable than full-grain leather and provides moderate protection against rain. But even jackets made of top-grain leather cannot be deemed completely waterproof. In the longer run, rain exposure does affect their appearance.
Synthetic leather jackets
This is one of the cheapest types of leather. Made from artificial materials treated with chemicals, synthetic leather jackets are prone to damage almost immediately after exposure to heavy rain or water from any other source.
What to Do If Your Leather Jacket in the Rain Gets Wet?
At some point, your leather jacket may get a brief exposure to rain. In a situation like this, you should implement the following tips:
- Remove the excess water with a dry cloth; never rub your jacket, as it may lead to further damage.
- Hang your jacket in a dry place, but never under the sun or places where it may get exposed to heat. Even blowing a dryer on it can crack the leather.
- Apply oils and conditioners of the recognized brands to maintain the essential moisture inside it that can be disturbed by exposure to water.
- Do not iron for fast drying.
See Also: A Guide to Choosing Men’s Leather Jacket Outfits
Final Words
So the conclusion is no matter how strong and durable your leather jacket is, it is never water-safe. Hence, it’s your responsibility to protect your leather jacket in the rain by taking it and carrying an umbrella with you. And if the rain somehow still falls on it, follow the tips mentioned above to protect it.
