The Ultimate Guide to Waterproofing with Nikwax

1/30/20242 min read

woman standing on snow field
woman standing on snow field

Enhancing Outdoor Adventures: The Ultimate Guide to Waterproofing with Nikwax

Introduction:

Embarking on outdoor adventures is undoubtedly exhilarating, but ensuring that your gear remains in peak condition is equally crucial. Enter Nikwax, a pioneer in the realm of gear care, offering innovative solutions to waterproof and revitalize your outdoor essentials. In this blog, we'll delve into the essential steps of waterproofing your gear using Nikwax products, ensuring that your equipment not only withstands the elements but stands the test of time.

Step 1: Assess and Clean Your Gear

Before diving into the waterproofing process, it's crucial to assess the condition of your gear. Remove any excess dirt, grime, or contaminants, as these can hinder the effectiveness of the waterproofing treatment. Nikwax Tech Wash is your go-to solution for this initial step, specially formulated to clean outdoor gear without compromising water repellency.

  1. Prepare your gear: Lay out your items in a clean and well-ventilated area.

  2. Apply Tech Wash: Follow the instructions on the Tech Wash bottle to apply the cleaner. For most items, a gentle machine wash or hand wash should suffice.

  3. Rinse thoroughly: Ensure that all remnants of the cleaner are rinsed off, leaving your gear clean and ready for the waterproofing treatment.

Step 2: Select the Appropriate Nikwax Waterproofing Product

Nikwax offers a range of waterproofing solutions tailored to different materials and gear types. Choose the product that best suits your needs:

  1. TX.Direct for breathable fabrics: Ideal for jackets, pants, and other breathable gear.

  2. Glove Proof: High performance water-proofer designed to maintain grip and breathability of fabric and leather gloves. Easy to apply by hand, non-flammable and PFC free.

  3. Ski Skin Proof: Sponge-on waterproofing for Ski Skins for your back country adventure. Repels water, stops saturation, reduces kick, improves glide.

Once your gear is clean and you've selected the appropriate Nikwax product, it's time to waterproof. Follow these steps for an effective application:

  1. Dampen the gear: Lightly dampen the clean gear with water. This ensures that the Nikwax product is evenly distributed.

  2. Apply the waterproofing solution: Follow the instructions on the Nikwax product label for application guidelines. Whether it's spraying, brushing, or soaking, ensure thorough coverage.

  3. Remove excess product: Wipe off any excess product using a clean cloth or sponge. This step prevents any uneven distribution and ensures a consistent waterproofing effect.

Step 4: Dry and Test

Allow your gear to dry naturally. Avoid using direct heat sources like radiators or tumble dryers, as extreme heat can damage the waterproofing treatment. Once dry, perform a simple water bead test to ensure the effectiveness of the waterproofing. If water beads up on the surface, congratulations – your gear is ready for the next adventure!

Conclusion:

Nikwax's dedication to innovation and environmental sustainability has made it a go-to choice for outdoor enthusiasts. By following these steps to waterproof your gear with Nikwax, you're not just preserving your equipment; you're extending its life and enhancing its performance. So, gear up, embrace the elements, and let Nikwax be your trusted ally in making every outdoor adventure a memorable one.