Wasing Outerwear

It's good that your asking this, a lot of kids just throw their stuff in the washing machine with regular detergent and then they wonder why their jacket isn't too waterproof or breathable anymore. Regular detergents block 'pores' (if that's the right word) on your jacket, which causes the waterproofing and breathability of the fabric to deteriorate. It's important to choose a detergent designed for your tech shells, personally I use Nikwax Tech Wash for my outer shells, because I find it works best. It's designed to maintain and revitalize the DWR (Durable Water Repellency) Coating on your outerwear, which can wear away over time. From time to time I also use Nikwax TX Direct Wash In, this adds DWR. Its important to note that if you're going to use TX Direct Wash In, do so after washing the garment(s) with Tech Wash first.

You should be able to find these out most outdoor shops near you, if not the local ski shop. But I've also attach links to the products on Nikwax's website, so you can see what you're looking for.

http://www.nikwax.com/en-gb/products/productdetail.php?productid=4&itemid=-1&fabricid=-1

http://www.nikwax.com/en-gb/products/productdetail.php?productid=3&itemid=-1&fabricid=-1

Hope this helps, Joey
 
sorry to thread jack but is it ok to nikwax down jackets? just curious if its ok to do so or if it would ruin the down
 
actually it was proven (some random thread on TGR) that liquid detergent does not clog the pores at all and is okay if you can't get ahold of nikwax. Only powder detergent will actually "block" the pores whereas liquid won't, although it still is not as healthy for the waterproofing overall like nikwax is.

overall, if you can get nikwax then get it. if not, liquid detergent is not terrible but not really helping at all.
 
Really, I must have missed that, then again, I don't spend a lot of time on TGR, I really should do though, those guys know their stuff.
 
true ... and it seems like it's important to have an established presence on the site
 
Just follow the instructions on the label. Lots of bullshit gets spoken about washing outerwear. Re-proof after washing if water isn't beading the next time you use it.
 
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