The Tanuki models are designed to be both air- and water-permeable. And we enjoy the feeling of going without water-repellent coatings! (Which does not make a difference with this particular material anyway)
Wildling shoes with a woolen upper material should not be completely treated with waterproofing – only their microfiber edging. Wool has water-repellent properties by nature – additional waterproofing will damage the structure of the wool. If the natural protection starts to diminish after some time and the shoe feels clammy from inside, you can re-grease the shoe. Additional care information for shoes made with wool can be found here.
With waxed models, too, the upper material should be spared during the waterproofing process and the treatment should be limited only to the microfiber edging and recesses in the sole.Watch our video about waterproofing to see how it is done: