Today’s consumers are more attentive than ever to footwear quality, and their expectations continue to rise. Beyond technical and sports shoes — such as trekking boots, mountaineering shoes, and work footwear — even men’s, women’s, and children’s everyday shoes are now expected to provide high levels of water protection.
A high-quality shoe is no longer judged solely by its aesthetics or structural durability; it must also guarantee maximum comfort, keeping the foot dry and protected in any weather condition.
To meet these expectations, footwear companies are increasingly investing in innovative materials and treatments, such as waterproof and breathable membranes and advaced water-repellent finishes, designed to enhance a shoe’s water resistance without compromising breathability.
Laboratory testing is essential to verify the effectiveness of materials and waterproofing techniques, ensuring a final product that meets the quality standards demanded by the market.
Test Description
The water resistance test measures how effectively the footwear can block water intrusion during use.
An essential feature for shoes intended for wet and rainy environments.
Test Procedure
The method involves flexing the entire shoe while it is partially immersed in water, simulating the natural movement of the foot on wet surfaces.
During the test, the shoe is partially submerged and repeatedly flexed, lifting the toe up to 45° and then returning it to its initial position.
This motion cycle accurately replicates the stress footwear undergoes during walking.
Sample Preparation
Each sample undergoes a specific preparation process before testing, which includes:
- Conditioning in a controlled environment to stabilize the materials and ensure reliable results.
- Identification of critical areas, such as:
- The joint between the sole and the upper (sealing areas).
- Upper seams treated with sealing processes.
- Internal junctions with waterproof membranes.
- Upper materials directly exposed to water.
Equipment Used
The test is performed using a finished footwear flexometer with water immersion, a device specifically designed to simulate real-world use of shoes under wet conditions.
Reference Values and Testing Standards
Technical Specifications of ISO 20344 Standard
- Test Method: Dynamic flexing of finished footwear in water.
- Equipment: Flexometer for finished shoes with controlled movement and partial immersion in water.
- Test Conditions:
- Toe flexing angle: up to 45°
- Number of cycles: 4,800 cycles over 1 hour of testing
- Compliance requirement: No visible water penetration inside the shoe
- There is no need for cutting or separating parts — the test is performed on the entire shoe, previously conditioned under controlled environmental conditions.
Advantages of Using ISO 20344 Standard
- Realistic Testing: Accurately simulates everyday use of footwear in wet environments.
- Applicable to All Categories: Casual, sports, outdoor, work shoes for men, women, and children.
- Non-Destructive Method: Can be applied to finished products without altering their structure.
Importance of the Test for the Footwear Industry
Verifying the water resistance of footwear is essential to:
- Ensure user comfort by keeping the foot dry even in humid conditions.
- Optimize materials and waterproofing technologies, improving product durability.
- Certify the quality of footwear according to international standards.
- Develop innovative solutions that enhance protection without compromising breathability.
Looking to test the waterproof performance of your footwear using reliable, internationally recognized methods?
Investing in water resistance testing means ensuring comfort, durability, and certified quality for your products. With advanced equipment and in-depth knowledge of regulations, our lab supports footwear brands and manufacturers in validating materials, technologies, and waterproofing processes.
Get in touch to learn more about the test or request a personalized consultation — we’re here to help you develop high-performance footwear that meets market expectations.
