Maintaining the waterproof integrity of your Zhik gear is essential for optimal performance and longevity. With the passing of time and exposure to the elements, dirt, and regular wear can diminish the effectiveness of the Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coating on your jackets, pants, and smocks. This guide provides an in-depth understanding of DWR, methods to assess its condition, and detailed steps to extend your gear's waterproof capabilities.
UNDERSTANDING DURABLE WATER REPELLENT
What is DWR?
Durable Water Repellent (DWR) is a specialised waterproof coating applied to the exterior of waterproof garments. Its primary function is to prevent water from saturating the fabric by causing moisture to bead up and roll off the surface. This beading effect assists the garment to remain lightweight and breathable, even in wet conditions.
How does DWR work?
DWR treatments work by increasing the surface tension of the fabric, encouraging water droplets to form beads and roll off rather than penetrating the material. This process not only keeps you dry but also maintains the breathability of the garment, allowing perspiration to escape and preventing the clammy feeling associated with wet clothing.
Assessing the Condition of Your Gear's DWR
Signs of DWR Deterioration
Over time, the DWR coating on your gear may degrade due to factors such as UV light exposure, abrasion, dirt accumulation, body oils, chemical (including some skin care and sun protection products) and environmental exposure. Indicators that your DWR is losing its effectiveness include:
- Wetting Out: The fabric absorbs water instead of repelling it, leading to dark, saturated patches and the garment feeling much heavier.
- Reduced Breathability: A damp outer layer can hinder the garment's ability to allow moisture vapor to escape, causing discomfort.
Simple Test to Evaluate DWR Performance
To determine if your gear requires reproofing there is a quick and easy test that can be undertaken at home:
- Spray Test: Lightly mist the exterior of your garment with water by flicking water droplets with your fingers or using a clean spray bottle. Leave the water droplets sitting on the fabric for a few minutes and observe what happens.
- Observation:
- If water beads up and rolls off, the DWR is functioning properly.
- If water soaks into the fabric, creating dark, wet spots, it's time to restore the DWR. If you notice the DWR is deteriorating, it is important to act quickly. The longer you leave it, the less likely you will be able to restore the DWR coating.
Step-by-Step Guide to Re-Waterproofing
Restoring the DWR of your Zhik gear involves cleaning and reproofing. We recommend using Grangers® or Nikwax® products for their efficacy and environmental considerations. There are a few simple steps you can undertake to significantly improve the water-repellency of your Zhik waterproof gear. With the right approach, restoring your gear to its peak performance is quick, effective, and helps ensure long-lasting protection from the elements.
1. Cleaning Your Garment
Proper cleaning removes contaminants that can impair the DWR's performance. We recommend using technical wash products from either Grangers® or Nikwax®. This should be undertaken by first reading any product care instructions on the garment itself. We also have a comprehensive article on washing waterproof clothing HERE. [Insert link to other article]
- Preparation:
- Close all zippers, flaps, and fastenings to ensure they do not get caught during the washing cycle.
- Brush off loose dirt and debris before washing.
- Washing:
- Use a specialised technical clothing cleaner like Grangers® Performance Wash or Nikwax Tech Wash®.
- Follow the product instructions for the appropriate amount and any specific processes to undertake while cleaning.
- Wash on a gentle cycle with warm water.
- Rinsing:
- Ensure all detergent residues are thoroughly rinsed out following the washing process.
2. Reapplying DWR Treatment
Once clean, reapply the DWR to restore water repellency by using a high-quality treatment product such as Grangers® Performance Repel Plus or Nikwax TX.Direct® Wash-In waterproofing liquid. Be sure to follow all instructions on the both the waterproofing product label and the garment care label.
Application Methods:
- In Wash Treatment - This method ensures that every fibre of the fabric, including hidden seams and linings, receives the waterproofing treatment.
- Following the product instruction label, add Grangers Clothing Repel or Nikwax TX.Direct® Wash-In to the detergent drawer of your washing machine.
- Run a gentle cycle with warm water in accordance with the product care label.
- Spray-On Treatment - Manually sprayed onto the garment's exterior, allowing for targeted application for precise treatment of high-wear areas, such as shoulders and cuffs.
- Hang the damp garment following the cleaning process.
- Evenly spray Grangers Performance Repel Plus onto the exterior surface.
- Ensure all areas are covered, paying extra attention to high-wear zones.
3. Allow to dry
Applying low heat after treatment can help bond the DWR coating to the fabric, enhancing its effectiveness and durability. This step activates the waterproofing molecules, ensuring a stronger and more uniform adhesion to the fabric surface. Methods such as tumble drying on a low setting or carefully using an iron with a protective cloth can provide the necessary heat without damaging the garment.
- Tumble Drying: If the care label allows, place the garment in a tumble dryer and set it to a low heat setting for approximately 30 minutes, ensuring that the gentle warmth helps to activate and bond the DWR treatment effectively without causing any damage to the fabric.
- Ironing: To protect the fabric while applying heat, place a clean, dry cloth over the garment and gently iron on a low setting, ensuring even coverage across the surface without directly exposing the material to the iron's heat.
- Air Drying: If heat-based methods are not suitable or recommended for your specific garment, carefully hang the item on a sturdy hanger in a well-ventilated area and allow it to air dry completely at room temperature, avoiding direct sunlight or high humidity.
4. Post-Treatment Testing
Once the garment has fully dried, it’s important to evaluate the effectiveness of the reproofing process. This final step ensures your gear is ready for reliable protection during your next adventure.
- Perform the Spray Test: Lightly spray water over the outer surface of the garment. Observe whether water beads up and rolls off easily, which indicates successful reproofing.
- Reapply if Needed: If any areas of the fabric appear to absorb water instead of repelling it, consider repeating the reproofing process to ensure thorough and optimal water repellency across the entire garment.
- Inspect High-Wear Areas: Pay extra attention to high-wear zones such as shoulders, cuffs, and seams, as these are more prone to wear and may require additional treatment.
Frequency of Reproofing
The frequency of reproofing your gear largely depends on how often it is used and the environmental conditions it is exposed to. If your gear is worn frequently or exposed to harsh conditions such as saltwater, heavy rain, or dirt, it is recommended to undertake the waterproofing test every 3-6 months and re-waterproof if requited. This ensures that the fabric remains waterproof and continues to provide reliable protection. For items that are used less frequently or only in mild conditions, reproofing once or twice a year is typically sufficient to maintain their water-repellent properties. By keeping track of when your gear was last treated and monitoring its performance, you can schedule reproofing sessions as needed to prolong the life and effectiveness of your waterproof clothing.
Additional Tips for Maintaining Your Zhik Gear
- Avoid Regular Detergents: Standard laundry detergents generally contain additives, such as fabric softeners or colour brighteners, which can breakdown the DWR coating and leave residues on your gear, reducing its ability to repel water. To maintain the performance of technical apparel, always use cleaners specifically designed for performance fabrics or outdoor gear.
- Proper Storage: To ensure the longevity of your gear, store it in a cool, dry environment, away from heat sources and direct sunlight. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can break down the fabric and degrade the Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coating, reducing its effectiveness over time.
- Prompt Cleaning: After using your gear in salty or muddy environments, it’s essential to rinse or clean it immediately after use. Contaminants like salt, dirt, and oils can weaken the fabric and compromise its water-repellent properties. Rinse thoroughly with fresh water and use a specialised cleaner if needed.
- Never store onboard the boat: enclosed yachts and boats can see a vast range of temperatures and humidity levels which can cause increased deterioration of gear and protective coatings.
Regular maintenance of your Zhik gear's Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coating is essential for maintaining its long-term performance, functionality, and comfort. Proper care helps the fabric repel water effectively, ensuring you stay dry and protected in wet conditions. By following this comprehensive guide, you can prolong the lifespan of your jackets, pants, and smocks, ensuring they continue to provide reliable waterproof protection and perform at their best, no matter the environment.
