Just How Different Are The Different Kinds Of Waterproofing Protector Sprays?
Much comparison has been made between different kinds of waterproofing protector sprays, but what should be the main function of a protector spray? There are 3 main characteristics. The durability, the strength and the drying speed of the imperviousness without affecting permeability. Let’s start with a spray that we are familiar with. For reasons that you will know, we will not name the brands, instead let’s just start to the acronyms.
For many years, the protector spray of a certain German brand starting with a letter ‘W’ has been one of the most popular options. It was and still deemed as the canon of the protector sprays as it is effective against, dirt, mud, water and oil. It is quite durable, strength is solid after 3 consecutive sprays and the drying speed of 20-30 minutes is considered normal by industry standards. Some sprays actually require you to leave the sprayed item overnight or 12 hours to dry!
“W” was also one of the first to switch to a PFOA & PFOS free formula which was required in the European Union for environmental issues, without affecting the performance of its imperviousness. However, there will always be weaknesses with the new formula of “W” and it has also taken the consumers quite some time to get used to it. But the fact is, people forgot that the spray was actually more effective in the past!
In Japan, the feedback from consumers were that the spray was too wet and it left visible marks on the surface of the leather, especially smooth leather. In Taiwan, the feedback was that the spray pressure was too weak and it took ages to spray a whole shoe. In Portugal, the customers complained that the spray took a long time to dry. So are all these feedbacks true? Yes, very much to a certain extent and the reasons are all related.
It’s true that the spray has become slightly wetter because the propellant inside the aerosol has been reduced, therefore more consistent strength of the finger is required when using the spray to ensure even spray pressure as the droplets are discharge in a downward projectile and a longer distance in between is required. In more humid countries like Portugal and New Zealand, the distance of spray becomes even more important. This is because humidity in the air merges with the spray droplets causing it to be wetter and a longer time to dry.
So how does Wren’s Total Protector compare itself to this King of Protector Sprays, “W”? We base our sprays on the same characteristics. The durability is in fact quite comparable to “W”. Strength is slightly stronger as 2 thorough sprays are usually enough to achieve strong imperviousness. The most obvious strength would be that it dries exceptionally fast even in humid countries.
However, Wren’s Total Protector is not without it’s rules to follow. Due to the high pressure required to even out the spray pressure, the spray droplets is sprayed in a more direct path and therefore, the distance of 20 centimetres in between the leather surface and the spray must be strictly adhered. Otherwise, there is a possibility that spray patches may appear if the spray can is held too close to the leather surface. Drying should be allowed to take place normally after which a polish or a cream can be applied to ensure a more lasting imperviousness effect.
“W” versus Wren’s is just like comparing cars. Different cars give difference performances and requires different handling. All it takes is a little getting used to. Hope this article clarifies all doubts and questions that resellers and consumers will have! If there are any more questions, feel free to contact us at the email addresses found on the website. Thank you!
P/S: Do not use any kind of protector sprays on synthetic or patent leather, unless there are specific instructions. This rule is applicable for most brands.
Just How Different Are The Different Kinds Of Waterproofing Protector Sprays?