Abstract: The present invention relates generally to methods of using stable aqueously dispersed superhydrophobic compositions to provide superhydrophobic treatments on a range of porous and semi-porous target materials and surfaces to enhance the filtration properties of the materials and surfaces. Compositions provide stably dispersed waterborne superhydrophobic compositions comprising colloidal silica or hydrophobically-modified fumed silicon dioxide (i.e., silica) and one or more additional agents and/or compounds applied to semi-porous target filter materials and surfaces. More particularly, the present compositions and methods are optimized to provide one or more superhydrophobic surfaces in layered filtration systems provided to users as personal protection equipment (“PPE”). Compositions of the present invention can be applied (e.g., via spray deposition, immersion, liquid application, and the like) to one or more surfaces and allowed to air dry or cured with heat treatment(s).