Collonil Carbon Pro Waterproofing Spray: Use and Alternatives
A clear guide to using Collonil Carbon Pro waterproofing spray, choosing a current alternative, and treating smooth leather, waxed leather, nubuck, suede and textiles safely.
Last updated: 31 July 2026.
Collonil Carbon Pro is a spray-on treatment designed to help protect compatible footwear materials from moisture and dirt. If you already own a can, follow its label because application distances, drying times and material suitability can vary by formula. Carbon Pro is not currently listed in Bareback Footwear’s active range, but there are verified current alternatives below.
The right treatment depends on both the boot material and the job you need it to do. A protective spray can improve surface water resistance; it cannot turn a non-waterproof boot into a fully waterproof one. If you need protection built into the footwear, browse our waterproof boots.
Which current waterproofing spray should I choose?
| Current option | Best fit | Verified application guidance |
|---|---|---|
| Collonil Carbon Waterproofing Protector Aerosol Free 100ml | Leather, suede, nubuck and textiles | Apply from about 15cm in a well-ventilated area, allow to dry and apply twice for the stated optimal effect. |
| Collonil Carbon Pure Waterproofer 100ml | Leather, suede, nubuck and textiles; a water-based, solvent-free option | Apply from about 20cm, spread with a brush or cloth and leave to dry for 12 hours. Polish smooth leather or brush suede after drying. |
| Bareback Leather Protector and Waterproofing Spray 150ml | A current Bareback protector to compare with the Collonil options | Check the live product instructions and your boot maker’s care guidance before use. |
You can also compare the full current range in boot and leather care or browse waterproofing sprays.
Can I use waterproofing spray on my boot material?
| Material | Practical guidance |
|---|---|
| Smooth leather | Choose a product whose label includes smooth leather. Clean and dry the boot first, test a hidden area and remember that a protector does not replace conditioning. |
| Waxed leather | Patch-test because a spray can alter the finish. Follow the boot maker’s instructions; for suitable smooth or waxed leather, our dubbin guide explains another care route. |
| Nubuck | Use a compatible all-materials spray, test first and brush gently after drying. Avoid dubbin and heavy creams, which can flatten the nap and darken the finish. Read our nubuck leather guide. |
| Suede | Use a spray specifically labelled for suede, test a concealed area and restore the texture with a suitable brush once dry. Do not apply dubbin. |
| Textile or mixed-material boots | Only use a treatment whose label covers every visible material. Do not apply leather waxes to fabric panels. |
How do I apply waterproofing spray safely?
- Check the label and the boot instructions. These take priority over general advice.
- Clean and dry the footwear. Dirt can create uneven coverage.
- Test a hidden area. Even a compatible treatment may change colour or texture.
- Apply evenly at the stated distance. Work in a well-ventilated area and avoid soaking one spot.
- Allow the full drying time. Do not wear the boots until the treatment has dried as directed.
- Finish for the material. Polish smooth leather or brush nubuck and suede only when the product instructions say to do so.
For a wider routine, see how to look after your boots.
Frequently asked questions
Can Collonil Carbon Pro be used on nubuck or suede?
Check the exact can you own. Use it only if its label lists nubuck or suede, test a concealed area first and brush the surface gently after it has dried.
Will waterproofing spray make any boot fully waterproof?
No. A surface treatment can improve resistance to moisture and dirt, but it does not add a waterproof membrane or sealed construction to a non-waterproof boot.
Should I use dubbin and waterproofing spray together?
Do not layer treatments automatically. Dubbin suits certain smooth and waxed leathers but not suede or nubuck. Follow the footwear and care-product instructions, and allow one treatment to dry fully before considering another.
How often should I reapply waterproofing spray?
There is no safe universal interval. Follow the product label and re-treat according to wear, weather, cleaning and the boot maker’s guidance rather than using a fixed schedule for every material.
What can I use if Carbon Pro is unavailable?
Bareback currently lists Collonil Carbon Waterproofing Protector Aerosol Free, Collonil Carbon Pure and Bareback Leather Protector and Waterproofing Spray. Compare their live material and application instructions before choosing.
Need help choosing the right boots?
Our friendly team can help with fit, calf width, instep and sizing. Give us a call or drop into the showroom.