How to Care for Zembla Hiker Mid Booties in Wet Weather

Start with what the Zembla Hiker Mid is made of

The Zembla Hiker Mid combines a nylon and nappa upper with a foam rubber outsole, an oversized rand, and a microfiber fabric lining. Those materials react differently to water, so a single all-purpose cleaner won't do the job well. Nylon can handle a damp cloth, nappa leather needs gentler treatment, and the foam rubber outsole benefits from a quick rinse after muddy walks.

Because the boot is described as a lace-up winter bootie with a hidden 100mm wedge and a chunky treaded platform, wet-weather care should focus on the upper and the outsole without soaking the interior. The microfiber lining is not listed as waterproof, so avoid letting water pool inside the boot.

A wet-weather care routine for the Zembla Hiker Mid

Follow these steps after the booties have been exposed to rain, slush, or mud. Work in a well-ventilated area and give each pair time to dry naturally.

1. Brush off loose dirt and salt: Use a soft brush to remove dried mud or road salt from the nylon upper, the oversized rand, and the treaded outsole. Pay attention to the deep grooves in the platform outsole where debris collects.
2. Wipe the nylon and nappa with a damp cloth: Dampen a microfiber cloth with cool water and wring it out well. Wipe the nylon panels first, then gently clean the nappa leather sections. Avoid scrubbing the leather aggressively, as nappa is a soft finish.
3. Clean the foam rubber outsole: Use a slightly wet brush to loosen mud from the treaded platform. Wipe dry with a clean cloth. The foam rubber outsole is durable, but standing water can break down the bond over time if the boot is stored wet.
4. Stuff with paper and air-dry: Remove the knit laces if they are wet, and stuff the booties with plain newspaper or paper towels to absorb moisture and hold their shape. Let them air-dry at room temperature, away from radiators or direct sunlight. Never put them in a tumble dryer.
5. Re-lace and store: Once the laces and boots are completely dry, re-lace the thick knit laces and store the booties in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing them in a damp closet or plastic bag, which can trap moisture.

What not to do when the weather turns

The Zembla Hiker Mid is not described as waterproof, so don't treat it as a rain boot. Avoid wading through deep puddles or wearing it in heavy, prolonged downpours. If the boot does get soaked, remove the footbed if possible (the supplied information does not confirm a removable footbed) and dry the interior thoroughly before wearing again.

Skip harsh chemical cleaners, bleach, or machine washing. These can damage the nappa leather, the microfiber lining, and the adhesive that holds the platform together. A damp cloth and mild soap are sufficient for most marks.

Construction details that shape your care routine

• Zembla Hiker Mid: Nappa and sheepskin leather + rubber-coated PVC + nylon webbing upper The mix of leather, PVC, and nylon means you should clean each material gently and avoid soaking the whole boot.

  

• Zembla Hiker Mid: Foam rubber outsole Foam rubber benefits from regular rinsing to prevent mud buildup, but it should not be left in standing water.
• Zembla Hiker Mid: Microfiber fabric lining Microfiber lining dries slowly, so stuffing the boot with paper helps prevent odors and moisture damage.
• Zembla Hiker Mid: Hidden 100mm/3.9in wedge adds a subtle lift The wedge construction means you should avoid twisting or wringing the boot when it's wet, which could stress the internal structure.

Fit and sizing reminders before you head out

The Zembla Hiker Mid is described as a narrow fit that runs small. If you're between sizes or have a wider foot, consider sizing up. A proper fit reduces rubbing and keeps your feet more comfortable in wet conditions, but the supplied information does not include specific sizing charts or fit recommendations beyond the narrow-fit note.

The bootie is available in Dazzling Blue, Cameo Mix, and Black, with sizes ranging from 36 to 41 depending on the color. Not all color and size combinations are listed, so check availability for your preferred pair.

Wet-weather care at a glance

Use this quick reference to match your action to the material you're cleaning.

• Nylon upper: Wipe with a damp cloth; brush off dried mud. Do not saturate.
• Nappa leather: Wipe gently with a barely damp cloth; avoid scrubbing. Let air-dry away from heat.
• Foam rubber outsole: Rinse with water and a soft brush; dry completely before storing.
• Knit laces: Remove if wet and air-dry separately; do not tumble dry.
• Microfiber lining: Stuff with paper to absorb moisture; never machine wash.