text: Hi adventurers! Is your waterproof jacket not quite as waterproof as it used to be? Is it starting to feel clammy and wet when you're out in the rain? No need to worry! Today, we're going to show you how to take care of your outdoor gear, keeping it clean and maintaining its water-repellent properties.
  1. What Makes a Jacket Waterproof?
  First, let’s understand what makes a jacket waterproof. The secret is a thin Sympatex membrane inside your jacket. This membrane is 100% waterproof, windproof, and breathable (but we’ll focus on the waterproof aspect today). To protect the performance of your gear and cover you up, this membrane is laminated between layers of textile. The outer layer is what we’re focusing on today.
  2. The Role of DWR Treatment
  To make the outer layer of your jacket resist water and dirt, it undergoes a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) treatment. DWR is an ultra-thin and invisible coating on the outside of your gear that helps water bead up and roll off. However, heavy use and exposure can wear down this treatment.
  3. How to Restore Your Jacket’s Performance
  So, what should you do if your jacket’s DWR treatment starts to fail?
  Step 1: Wash It!
  Start by washing your jacket to remove all the dirt, oil, and sweat that have accumulated during your adventures. Here’s how:
  Check the Care Label: Always check the care label for specific washing instructions.
  Don’t Overload the Machine: Don’t pack the washing machine too full.
  Use the Right Cleaner: Use a gentle, gear-specific cleaner and avoid regular detergents as they can harm the DWR.
  Once your jacket is nice and clean, you have two options: reactivate the DWR or re-impregnate it.
  Reactivate the DWR
  If your gear still creates those amazing water beads, it’s enough to reactivate the DWR.
  Tumble Dry or Iron: After washing, use a tumble dryer or iron the jacket, depending on the care instructions. The heat helps to reactivate the DWR treatment.
  Re-impregnate if Needed
  If your jacket looks wet and water no longer beads up, it’s time to re-impregnate.
  Use a Spray: We recommend using a DWR spray. It’s easy to apply and ensures that the DWR is only reapplied to the outside of your jacket where it belongs.
  Add Heat: After spraying, increase the effect by putting the jacket in the dryer or ironing it. DWR treatments are heat-activated, so this step is crucial.
  4. Maintenance Tips
  Remember to repeat this process as needed to maintain your gear’s performance. Regular maintenance saves you money and resources in the long run by extending the life of your jacket.
  For more detailed instructions, check out our wash and care guide here.
  Now your gear is ready to keep you dry on your next adventure. Happy exploring!