How to Waterproof Under Armour Sneakers

Waterproofing means water resistance, not a seal

Under Armour builds most of its sneakers for training and everyday wear, with uppers that prioritize airflow over rain protection. A waterproofing treatment does not turn one of these shoes into a boot; it gives the fabric a water-repellent finish. Water then beads and rolls off the surface instead of soaking in, while the upper still lets heat and moisture escape.

The practical goal is durability in light rain and wet ground, not submersion. Puddles and heavy downpours will still find their way in through the seams, especially around the tongue and collar. For that reason, treat the finish as weather insurance for daily wear rather than a seal. For more on how manufacturers approach the difference, see how waterproof sneakers are built.

Match the treatment to the upper material

Under Armour uses several upper types across its lines: engineered knits, open meshes, synthetic overlays, and leather or synthetic leather panels on lifestyle models. The right treatment depends on what you are working with. Sprays suit porous, breathable uppers like knit and mesh. Waxes work well on canvas and tightly woven fabric, where a thin layer can sit on the surface and shed water. Leather does not need a wax barrier, but it benefits from conditioning that keeps it supple.

Before any treatment, clean the upper and let it dry completely. Dirt and moisture block the water-repellent finish and make it uneven. For mesh and knit care steps, see how to clean mesh uppers. If your sneakers have several materials, treat each zone with the method that fits it. When comparing upper options, see the best Under Armour sneakers.

Spray technique for knit and mesh

To spray-treat a knit or mesh upper, start with clean, dry shoes and cover the sole if you want to keep the rubber clean. Hold the can at a distance and apply a thin, even pass over the whole upper, then let the layer dry before adding another. Keep coats light: a heavy soak will stiffen the fabric and slow airflow.

Pay extra attention to the seams where panels meet, the toe area, and the base of the tongue, because water finds those paths first. Do not spray the insole or lining; the treatment is meant for the outer face of the upper. Let the shoes sit until fully dry before wearing them. If the finish wears off after a cleaning, repeat the process. For more on keeping airflow, see sneaker breathability.

Wax technique for canvas and fabric

Wax is the better choice for canvas and sturdy fabrics. Rub the wax block over the surface in firm strokes, covering seams and edges completely, then apply gentle heat to let the wax melt into the weave. A hair dryer set to low works, and you should keep it moving so the fabric does not overheat. The wax will darken the area slightly, so test on a small spot first. For a step-by-step version of this method, see how to make sneakers water-resistant with wax.

Keep the wax layer thin. A heavy coating feels stiff and can crack with flexing, which opens channels for water. Reapply when the surface stops beading water, rather than layering on extra wax all at once.

Keeping the upper breathable

Breathability is the reason most Under Armour uppers are made of knit or mesh, and a treatment should not undo that. Thin applications preserve the open structure of the fabric, while thick films clog the pores and trap sweat against the foot. If you train in treated shoes, wear moisture-wicking socks and air the shoes out between sessions. For more on how upper materials affect airflow, see how knit and mesh differ for breathability and breathability ratings explained.

A spray that leaves a visible film is a sign you applied too much. When in doubt, use less product and add a second thin layer after the first dries. You can always reapply, but it is hard to remove a heavy coating without washing the shoe.

Caring for treated sneakers

A treated upper sheds water best when it is clean. Dust and grime break down the finish, and repeated dampness can stain the fabric, so refresh the treatment after each deep clean rather than applying more on top of a dirty surface. Store the shoes in a dry, ventilated place, away from direct heat and sunlight, which can weaken the finish.

If water stops beading on the surface and starts soaking in, the repellent has worn off. Reapply the same method you used before, starting with a clean upper. For general guidance on keeping sneakers dry, see how to protect sneakers from rain. If you prefer a model that does the work for you, compare options in the best waterproof sneakers guide.

What to pick for your use

Questions

Will waterproofing ruin the breathability of my Under Armour sneakers?

Only if you apply too much. A thin, even coat repels water while leaving the knit or mesh open enough for airflow. Thick layers stiffen the fabric and trap heat, so keep applications light and let each coat dry before adding another.

Can I use wax on a knit running shoe?

Wax works best on canvas and tightly woven fabric. On open knit or mesh, wax can clog the structure and reduce breathability, so a spray is the better fit for those uppers.

How often should I reapply the treatment?

Reapply when water stops beading on the surface and begins to soak in. This depends on how often you wear the shoes and how hard you use them, so check the surface from time to time rather than following a fixed schedule.

Should I waterproof my Under Armour sneakers before the first wear?

Yes. A clean upper takes the treatment most evenly, so treating the shoes before they get dirty gives you the longest window of protection.

Will the treatment change the color of the fabric?

Some products darken the fabric slightly, especially on lighter colors and suede. Test the product on a hidden area first, such as the inside of the tongue, and let it dry before applying to the whole shoe.

Is a treated Under Armour sneaker fully waterproof?

No. Spray and wax treatments add water resistance, which makes rain bead and roll off. They do not create a sealed membrane, so heavy rain, puddles, and submersion can still soak through seams. A model with a built-in membrane is the better choice for those conditions.