Waterproof and scuffproof claims on shoes
What the FTC Guides say these words should mean when a maker uses them.
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Waterproof
Part 24 says it is unfair or deceptive to use the term "Waterproof" "unless the designated product or material prevents water from contact with its contents under normal conditions of intended use during the anticipated life of the product or material."
Scuffproof and scratchproof
Part 24 says "Scuffproof" and "Scratchproof" should not be used "unless the outside surface of the product is immune to scratches or scuff marks, or is not subject to wear as represented."
Resistant
Part 24 says "Scuff Resistant" and "Scratch Resistant" call for "a basis for the representation" and an outside surface that is "meaningfully and significantly resistant to scuffing, scratches, or to wear as represented."
Whose words these are
These claims, when they appear, are the maker's. We do not say any shoe or treatment keeps water out.
This is general information, not legal or medical advice.
Sources: eCFR, 16 CFR Part 24, Guides for Select Leather and Imitation Leather Products.
FAQ
General information only, not medical advice. Material labels are the maker's: check the label for each part of the shoe. Fit varies by maker and by person, so check the maker's size chart and the return policy. If you have foot pain or a foot or health condition, talk to your doctor or a podiatrist.
Next: care labels
The maker's instructions first.
