Skechers D’Lites are a popular sneaker style known for their chunky design and comfortable cushioning.
But with their mesh and fabric construction, many wonder if D’Lites can withstand wet conditions or will leave your feet soggy.
We will dive into the waterproof capabilities of Skechers D’Lites to help you decide if they’re suitable for rainy days or damp terrain.
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Are Skechers D’Lites Waterproof?
The standard Skechers D’Lites sneaker styles are not designed to be fully waterproof. They typically have textile/mesh uppers that can allow water penetration.
However, Skechers may offer some D’Lites variations with water-resistant or waterproof treatments and materials.
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Overview of Skechers D’Lites
Before examining the waterproof features, let’s briefly introduce D’Lites for those unfamiliar with the shoes. Skechers launched the D’Lites line in 2007 and they’ve become one of their most beloved sneakers.
Key features
- Chunky, retro-style midsole for a bold, platform look
- Lightweight injection-molded midsole cushioning
- Mesh fabric upper with synthetic and leather overlays
- Padded collar and tongue
- Some styles have a removable Air-Cooled Memory Foam insole
They’re available in low-top and high-top varieties and come in an array of colors to suit anyone’s tastes.
The chunky tread and thick outsole provide excellent traction. While the uppers differ across D’Lite styles, none of them are fully waterproofed from the factory.
Comparison of Key Waterproof Features
Here is a comparative table highlighting the primary waterproof capabilities across different Skechers D’Lite categories:
| Feature | Mesh Upper D’Lites | Leather Accent D’Lites | Coated Leather D’Lites | Fully Waterproof Sneakers |
| Upper material | Mesh fabric only | Mesh + leather/synthetic leather accents | Coated leather + mesh | Synthetic waterproof membranes & sealing |
| Water resistant coating | None | None | Leather coating provides minimal protection | Waterproof membrane built into upper material |
| Moisture absorption | High | Moderate | Low | None, moisture cannot penetrate membrane |
| Wet weather performance | Poor, absorb the water immediately | Fair, withstand light precipitation | Good, resist saturation from brief exposure | Excellent, feet stay dry despite heavy rain or submersion |
| Ideal use | Casual & streetwear | Casual & streetwear | Casual & streetwear | Outdoor activities & extremely wet settings |
As shown in the table, only shoes with waterproof membranes built into the upper fabric provide complete wet condition protection.
No D’Lite style offers such a performance. But styles with extra leather do resist light environmental moisture better than plain mesh D’Lites before becoming saturated.
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Tips for Keeping Feet Dry in D’Lites
Even though Skechers D’Lites are not marketed as waterproof shoes, you can take steps to enhance their wet weather performance:
1. Spray shoes with a water repellent coating.
Applying an aftermarket waterproofing spray drastically improves water resistance. Silicone or acrylic-based sprays seal the upper to prevent moisture absorption and penetration. Reapply every few months or as needed depending on frequency of wear.
Consider spraying the toe cap, sides, ankle collar and any stitched seams to fully protect your D’Lites uppers.
2. Wear thick, tall moisture-wicking socks.
The right socks make a difference in wet shoes. Opt for heavily cushioned crew or knee-high socks made of wool, polyester, acrylic or coolmax fabric. These materials draw interior dampness away from skin instead of absorbing liquid.
The additional sock padding also takes up volume to prevent water pooling directly on your feet.
3. Stuff shoes with newspaper after use in wet conditions.
Stuffing D’Lites with newspaper after exposure helps absorb residual interior moisture faster. The paper draws out dampness so it won’t pool inside overnight.
Replace newspapers daily until shoes are completely dry inside to prevent odor issues. Crumpled paper works best to expose more surface area to moisture.
4. Use antiperspirant or powder on feet.
Applying clinical-strength antiperspirant or moisture-absorbing foot powder keeps feet drier before popping shoes on. These products decrease how much dampness socks and shoe interiors amass from sweat or external wetness.
Reapply antiperspirant every few days and powder before each shoe wearing. Pay extra attention to dusty problem areas prone to sweat like toes, soles and heels before wearing your D’Lites.
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Conclusion
In summary, Skechers D’Lites are highly popular sneakers thanks to their eye-catching chunky design and cushioned wear. But their mesh and fabric uppers fail to make D’Lites a truly waterproof option right out of the box.
Certain leather D’Lite varieties offer slightly better water resistance. Yet despite their limitations, you can take measures like applying water-repellent spray, wearing moisture-wicking socks, and stuffing damp shoes with newspaper to help keep your feet as dry as possible in wet settings. Just don’t expect full waterproof protection without upgrades.
The most water-friendly D’Lite choice will depend on your priorities and planned walking environments:
- Pure style – Mesh uppers have the classic D’Lites sporty look
- Occasional wet days – Faux leather or coated leather accents add a touch more impermeability
- Maximum all-weather use – Consider aftermarket waterproof sprays and accessories
- Daily rain or snow – Choose dedicated waterproof trail runners or boots instead
We hope this breakdown gives you a better idea of how D’Lites stand up in wet conditions. Don’t let their lack of inherent waterproofing stop you from rocking your favorite pair – just take a few extra precautions to keep your feet fresh and dry if caught in an unexpected downpour on your adventures!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are suede or nubuck leather D’Lites waterproof?
No. The nubuck and ultrasuede (microsuede) materials used on some D’Lites uppers still absorb moisture like other leather and fabrics. Sprays provide moderate protection but full submersion ruins the look, texture, and form of the suede. Limit wear in heavy precipitation.
Can you resolve D’Lites with a waterproof sole?
Yes. You can replace the foam D’Lite outsole with a rubber waterproof traction sole from an aftermarket shoe repair shop for improved surface water resistance. Just the upper will remain non-waterproof unless also treated. Ask about vibram or commando soles.
Should you apply waterproofing spray to the soles or just the uppers?
Only treat the fabric’s upper portions with water-repellent spray – masking the midsole and outsole. Some light sole cleaning should occur first for best spray adhesion on uppers. Avoid interacting sprays with any logos, stitching, or decorative coatings if possible. Limit spray use solely to improve upper water protection.
Will the washing machine or drying machine damage non-waterproof D’Lites?
Yes. Machine washing and drying can easily ruin the glues, fabrics, or interior cushioning of D’Lites. The heat and agitation are too harsh for the shoes’ construction. Instead, scrub dirty D’Lites by hand using gentle cleaners and lukewarm water. Always air dry away from direct heat rather than machines to avoid upper or sole separation issues.
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