If your boots get saturated then it can take days to dry them out. Usually they don't get that wet though. If using Nikewax, you apply it when wet anyway then it gets pulled into the leather as it drys.
If your boots have a gortex inner, then one pair should be all you need. If they are simply leather you may struggle with one pair. Hope my ramblings help.
Definitely a help
I’ve changed the thread title to ‘All Leather’ to be more specific to my needs. I’ve noticed Nikwax can be applied when boots are wet, which would cut down time. As mine are Altberg, I’ll be proofing with the only one Altberg recommend, Leder-Gris. Their website states ‘apply when the boots are almost dry’. Do you also need to allow time for absorbing Leder-Gris into the leather? Website doesn’t mention.
[/size]For that terrain forget leather -get a pair of roclites combine with good wool mix (merino) socks and don't bother about whether your feet are wet - for 7 miles it really doesn't matter.
It’s subjective, and having done this routine many times in the past with leaking boots, it’s not something I want to repeat. Call me a wimp, but I much prefer dry feet.
If you get the boots well waxed beforehand they should hold out for 7 miles, no problem. Give them a quick scrub in water, ideally running water, after the walk if necessary to remove any mud then rewax them and they should be good to go again. If the original waxing was thorough,water should still bead on the surface so they can be shaken and waxed without waiting for them to dry. 5 mins to scrub, 10 to 15 mins tops to wax.
You're suggesting every 7 miles (every day)? I was hoping for once every 7 days (49 miles). But yes, repeat the maintenance whilst the boots are still beading, to prevent moisture penetrating deeper, which will ultimately take longer for the boots to 'almost dry' for Leder-Gris. Understood