The right waterproofer is not simply about choosing “the best” one. It is about choosing the protection and care properties that suit your material, needs and preferences.
This is probably one of the questions we get asked most often—and it's a good one. 😊
At first glance, our waterproofers may seem like they're all doing the same thing. And in one sense, they are: they all help protect your shoes, bags and other items from moisture and dirt.
The difference is in what else they do for the material. Some are all about long-lasting waterproofing. Some add conditioning. Some help activate color. And one gives you UV protection.
So rather than asking, “Which one is the best?”, we recommend asking: What am I protecting, and what do I want my waterproofer to do?
If Long-Lasting Waterproofing Is Your Priority
Carbon Pro or Carbon MaxX Protector
Both Carbon Pro and Carbon MaxX Protector are waterproofers powered by Collonil's membrane technology. They are our go-to choices when your main priority is long-lasting waterproof protection.
Carbon Pro
Carbon Pro is a high-performance waterproofer designed for extremely durable, long-lasting protection against dirt and wetness.
Its spray-on membrane helps protect the material while allowing it to remain breathable. It is suitable for all types of materials and is particularly recommended for textile and functional materials.
The 400ml size also makes it a practical choice if you're regularly protecting several pairs of shoes, bags or other items.
View Carbon Pro →Carbon MaxX Protector
Carbon MaxX Protector is part of Collonil's newest MaxX line. The “X” stands for Xtra—and the line is built around Collonil's latest technologies.
For the Protector, that means an updated membrane technology designed for Xtra-durable protection, with a fluorine-free formulation. It creates an invisible, breathable barrier that helps protect against moisture, dirt and stains.
Like Carbon Pro, it is suitable for all materials and is particularly useful for textile, sneakers, shoes, bags and other high-wear items.
View Carbon MaxX Protector →So, Carbon Pro or Carbon MaxX?
Both are excellent choices if your main priority is long-lasting waterproofing.
Think of Carbon Pro as the proven high-performance go-to, while Carbon MaxX Protector is the newer generation of Collonil membrane technology, with Xtra-durable, fluorine-free protection.
If you want Collonil's newest protection technology, go with Carbon MaxX. If you prefer the larger 400ml format and proven Carbon protection, Carbon Pro remains an excellent choice.
If You Want Waterproofing With Color-Activating Properties
Vario Spray
Vario Spray is a little different. It doesn't just protect against moisture and dirt—it also has color-activating properties that help maintain and revive the appearance of colored materials.
It's particularly useful for colored and mixed materials, and is especially recommended for:
- Suede and nubuck
- Fur
- Stretch materials
- Felt
- Metallic materials
- Other specialty or sensitive materials
It's suitable for all materials, making it a versatile choice when an item doesn't consist of just one type of material.
So if you're looking at a colorful suede bag, a metallic sneaker, a mixed-material shoe or another specialty piece, Vario is the one we'd look at first.
View Vario Spray →If You Want Waterproofing With Conditioning
1909 Supreme Protect Spray
This is where we like to think of 1909 as the skincare line for leather.
Just as a good skincare routine isn't only about protecting your skin from the outside, premium leather benefits from care that helps maintain its softness, suppleness and appearance.
1909 Supreme Protect Spray combines waterproofing with conditioning properties. Its caring formulation helps protect against moisture and grime while also helping maintain the look and feel of the material.
We particularly recommend it for premium and raw leather, such as vachetta, lambskin, calfskin and other fine or sensitive leather. It's also suitable for other materials, including textile.
It's especially suited to premium leather shoes, bags and accessories where you want protection without stopping at protection.
View 1909 Supreme Protect Spray →myBAGs Protect
myBAGs Protect was created with bags and fashion pieces in mind.
Functionally, it overlaps with some of Collonil's other waterproofers—it protects against moisture, stains and everyday dirt while helping maintain the appearance of the material. It is suitable for a wide range of materials, including leather, suede, textile and synthetics.
If your priority is protecting your handbag, backpack or fashion accessory and you like the idea of a product specifically positioned around your bag collection, myBAGs Protect is a lovely option.
For CollonilPH, myBAGs Protect is currently available for a limited time, as the line is being phased out of Collonil Germany's portfolio.
View myBAGs Protect →If You Want UV Protection
Waterstop Spray
Waterstop Spray is a straightforward everyday waterproofer with one feature that sets it apart from the rest of the range: UV protection.
UV exposure can contribute to color fading over time. Waterstop's UV protection helps reduce this effect while also protecting against moisture and dirt.
It is suitable for leather types—including suede—and textile with or without a membrane. We particularly recommend it for smooth leather and coated canvas.
It's also the most accessible option in the range if you're looking for a smaller 100ml spray.
View Waterstop Spray →Want the Benefits of More Than One Waterproofer?
You do not always have to choose just one. Some customers layer different waterproofers to combine the care properties they want with long-lasting protection.
Start with the waterproofer that offers the additional benefit your material needs—such as colour activation, conditioning or UV protection. Once it has dried thoroughly, layer it with Carbon Pro or Carbon MaxX Protector when durable, long-lasting waterproof protection is also a priority.
For example, Vario Spray can be used first to help activate the colours on suede, then layered with Carbon Pro for durable, long-lasting waterproof protection.
So, Which Waterproofer Should You Choose?
If you're deciding between several waterproofers, this is the easiest way to narrow it down:
“I mainly want long-lasting waterproofing.”
Carbon Pro or Carbon MaxX Protector. Both use membrane technology and are designed for durable protection.
“I'm mostly protecting textile or functional materials.”
Carbon Pro or Carbon MaxX Protector. Both are particularly well suited to textile and functional materials.
“My item is colored, mixed-material or has a specialty finish.”
Vario Spray. Especially for suede, nubuck, fur, stretch, felt, metallics and other specialty materials.
“I'm protecting a premium leather bag.”
1909 Supreme Protect Spray. Especially for premium or raw leather such as vachetta, lambskin or calfskin.
“I want something specifically for my bags.”
myBAGs Protect. Available from CollonilPH for a limited time.
“I want protection against UV-related color fading.”
Waterstop Spray. Particularly for smooth leather and coated canvas.
Not Sure What Material You Have?
The right waterproofer also depends on the material you're working with.
Not sure if your bag is smooth leather, vachetta, suede, nubuck, textile or something else? Our material guide is coming soon.
Need Help Applying Your Waterproofer?
Choosing the right waterproofer is only half the story. How you apply it matters, too. For the full step-by-step—including how to prepare your item, how to apply waterproofing, when to reapply and common mistakes to avoid—see our guide: How to Waterproof Your Shoes & Bags →
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a Collonil waterproofer on leather?
Yes. Our waterproofers can be used across a range of materials, including different types of leather. The better question is which waterproofer is best suited to the type of leather and the result you're looking for.
Can I waterproof suede?
Yes. Collonil waterproofers can be used on suede and nubuck. Vario Spray is particularly recommended when you're looking for waterproofing with color-activating properties.
Which is better: Carbon Pro or Carbon MaxX?
Both are membrane-tech waterproofers designed for long-lasting protection. Carbon Pro is the established high-performance choice, while Carbon MaxX Protector is part of Collonil's newest MaxX generation, with Xtra-durable and fluorine-free protection.
Which waterproofer is best for a leather bag?
For premium or raw leather, we'd look first at 1909 Supreme Protect Spray, especially for materials such as vachetta, lambskin and calfskin. For a product specifically positioned for bags and fashion pieces, myBAGs Protect is another option and is currently available from CollonilPH for a limited time.
Which waterproofer should I use for sneakers?
If your sneakers are primarily textile or made from multiple materials and your main priority is long-lasting waterproofing, Carbon Pro or Carbon MaxX Protector are strong choices. If your sneakers have colored or specialty materials, Vario Spray may be the better fit.
Still Unsure?
Send us a photo of the item and tell us what you'd like to protect it from. We'll help you find the right Collonil waterproofer for it. 😊