FAQs

Here you'll find answers to the most frequently asked questions about Zamberlan products. If you can't find the information you're looking for, please contact our Customer Service team using the Contact form.

How do I choose the right size?

We recommend consulting the Size Guide available on our website. It includes measurements and helpful guidance to assist you in selecting the right size.

Choosing the correct size depends on the shape of your foot, your preferred fit, and your intended use. There is no universal "perfect" size, as every foot is different and no boot will fit everyone exactly the same. In addition, most people have slightly different measurements between their right and left foot.

The European sizing used by Zamberlan® differs from that used by many other Italian footwear manufacturers. For example, our EU size 42 corresponds to a US Men's 8, whereas many other brands generally equate an EU 42 to a US Men's 9. This is because specialist manufacturers like Zamberlan® develop and use their own proprietary lasts.

In general, most customers find that our women's models made in Italy fit true to size, while our men's models tend to have a slightly longer fit.

What are the differences between the various types of leather?

Full-grain leather is the highest-quality leather used in Zamberlan® footwear. It offers exceptional durability, strength, and a premium appearance.

Waxed full-grain leather is treated with waxes during the tanning process, giving it a distinctive look and a softer feel.

Nubuck is also a premium full-grain leather. It undergoes a special surface treatment that enhances its durability while maintaining its natural character.

Split leather (suede) is produced from the lower layer of the hide after the top grain has been separated. Traditional suede is typically made from this material. Although it is less premium than full-grain leather, it still provides excellent durability and is especially valued for its lighter weight, particularly when combined with synthetic materials.

Perwanger® leather is a premium category of brushed full-grain leather, similar to nubuck. Produced in limited quantities, it is internationally recognized for its outstanding durability and performance in the harshest conditions, including high-altitude mountaineering.

Why is leather thickness important?

Leather thickness contributes to both durability and insulation.

For footwear designed for the most demanding applications, we use leather ranging from 2.6 mm to 2.8 mm thick. Extreme environments require premium-quality leather with sufficient thickness to ensure long-lasting performance and protection.

Why does Zamberlan use Vibram® outsoles?

Zamberlan has partnered with Vibram® since the very beginning of the brand. Over the years, this collaboration has led to the development of innovative solutions and continues today thanks to Vibram's expertise, quality, and technical know-how.

Vibram® outsoles remain one of the highest performance standards available on the market and perfectly reflect the values of the Zamberlan® brand.

Can Zamberlan boots be resoled?

Yes. Most Zamberlan footwear is designed to be resoled, extending its lifespan and preserving its performance over time.

To verify whether your model can be resoled, please refer to the product page or contact our Customer Service team.

Why does Zamberlan exclusively use GORE-TEX® membranes?

GORE-TEX® has been a long-standing partner of Zamberlan® and remains a benchmark for innovation, technological development, and quality.

The company oversees every stage of the manufacturing process, ensuring exceptionally high quality standards. Every component used in Zamberlan® footwear is tested and approved in the GORE-TEX laboratories in Milan to verify breathability, moisture management, and overall performance.

Today, GORE-TEX® continues to set the standard for waterproof protection, breathability, and comfort.

Is Zamberlan footwear made in Italy?

Yes.

Since 1929, Zamberlan® has been manufacturing its footwear in Pievebelvicino, Italy, at its own production facilities.

Today, three dedicated production lines are devoted to our premium models, all handcrafted by highly skilled artisans. This allows us to preserve our craftsmanship, expertise, and quality standards entirely in-house. Many of our team members have been with the company for decades.

What is Hydrobloc®?

Hydrobloc® is a proprietary leather treatment applied during the tanning process.

This technology enhances the leather's water resistance, durability, and long-term performance. To help maintain these properties over time, Zamberlan has also developed the Hydrobloc® Care Products line, specifically formulated to nourish and protect leather.

We recommend using these products regularly to help extend the life of your footwear.

Learn how to care for your boots in our Footwear Care Guide.

What fit options does Zamberlan offer?

Every foot is different and requires a specific fit. That's why Zamberlan develops dedicated lasts for different outdoor activities, foot anatomies, and intended uses.

Our footwear is designed using different lasts based on intended use, gender, and, for selected models, varying forefoot widths to provide the ideal balance of comfort, precision, and performance.

To help you choose the model that's right for you, each product page includes detailed information about fit and technical specifications.

What is hydrolysis?

Hydrolysis is the natural deterioration process of a boot's outsole.

Although it may appear to be a manufacturing defect, it is actually a normal chemical reaction.

When boots are used only occasionally, the polyurethane in the outsole can harden and dry out over time, much like a car tire. As a result, the outsole may eventually deteriorate and separate from the boot.

This process is more common in environments with high humidity or when footwear is frequently exposed to very wet conditions.

For this reason, we recommend wearing your boots regularly, even for a short walk around the house, to help keep the outsole material active.

Footwear should be stored in a dry place and periodically treated with appropriate care products. It is also important to keep your boots clean while avoiding drying them near direct heat sources, which can damage both the upper and the outsole.

If your footwear is many years old and shows signs of hydrolysis, it may be time to replace it. Modern technologies and materials now provide significantly improved cushioning, comfort, and overall performance compared to older footwear.

How do I care for my boots?

Proper care helps preserve the comfort, performance, and lifespan of your footwear.

After each use, remove dirt and debris with a soft brush and allow your boots to air dry naturally, away from direct heat sources such as radiators, heaters, or fireplaces.

For detailed cleaning instructions, maintenance recommendations, and product advice, please refer to our Footwear Care Guide.

Can I wash my boots in a washing machine?

No. Machine washing can damage the leather, technical materials, adhesives, and waterproof membranes, compromising both the performance and durability of the footwear.

For routine cleaning, remove dirt and debris with a soft brush and, if necessary, use lukewarm water following the instructions in our Footwear Care Guide. Always allow your boots to air dry naturally and keep them away from direct heat sources.

How can I tell if a boot is waterproof?

The specifications for each model are listed on its product page.

Footwear equipped with a GORE-TEX® membrane provides waterproof protection and excellent breathability, while some models feature Hydrobloc®-treated leather to enhance water resistance.

Please refer to the product page to review the technologies, materials, and specific features of the model you're interested in.