Don’t Let a Leaky Jacket Ruin Your Adventure: How to Re-Waterproof Your Gore-Tex Gear
There’s nothing quite like the feeling of being out in nature, knowing your gear has your back. For hikers, skiers, climbers, and anyone who loves the outdoors, Gore-Tex is often the gold standard for waterproof and breathable apparel. But like any high-performance gear, Gore-Tex isn’t invincible. Over time, wear and tear, dirt, oils, and even improper washing can degrade the Durable Water Repellent (DWR) finish, leaving you feeling damp and disappointed. The good news? Re-waterproofing your Gore-Tex gear is a relatively simple process that can breathe new life into your favorite jacket, pants, or gloves, saving you money and keeping you dry.
Why Does Gore-Tex Lose Its Water Repellency?
Gore-Tex membranes themselves are inherently waterproof. The magic happens with the DWR treatment applied to the outer fabric. This invisible coating causes water to bead up and roll off the surface, preventing the fabric from becoming saturated. However, this DWR finish is sacrificial. Body oils, dirt, sunscreen, insect repellent, and detergent residue all contribute to breaking down this protective layer. When water stops beading and instead soaks into the fabric, it’s a clear sign it’s time for a refresh.
Step 1: Clean Your Gear Thoroughly
Before you can reapply a DWR treatment, your gear needs to be impeccably clean. Dirt and oils will prevent the new treatment from adhering properly. Follow these guidelines:
- Check the Care Label: Always consult the manufacturer’s care instructions for your specific garment.
- Use a Technical Cleaner: Avoid regular laundry detergents, as they often contain fabric softeners and optical brighteners that can harm the DWR. Instead, opt for a specialized technical wash like Nikwax Tech Wash or Granger’s Performance Wash.
- Machine Wash: Most Gore-Tex items can be machine washed. Close all zippers, Velcro, and fastenings to prevent snagging. Wash on a gentle cycle with warm water (usually 40°C or 104°F).
- Rinse Thoroughly: Run an extra rinse cycle to ensure all detergent residue is removed.
Step 2: Reapply the DWR Treatment
Once your gear is clean and still slightly damp, it’s time for the re-waterproofing step. There are two main types of DWR treatments:
- Spray-On DWR: These are applied directly to the outer fabric. Brands like Nikwax, Granger’s, and Gear Aid offer popular spray-on options. Ensure you’re in a well-ventilated area or outdoors for this step.
- Wash-In DWR: These are added to the washing machine along with your gear. They’re convenient but can sometimes be less effective on heavily soiled items.
For Spray-On DWR:
- Lay your damp garment flat on a clean surface.
- Spray the DWR evenly over the entire outer surface, paying extra attention to seams and high-wear areas.
- Wipe away any excess spray with a clean, damp cloth.
For Wash-In DWR:
- Follow the product instructions carefully. Typically, you’ll add the wash-in treatment to the detergent compartment of your washing machine and wash the garment again on a gentle cycle with warm water.
Step 3: Heat Activate the DWR
Most DWR treatments require heat to activate their full performance. This helps the treatment bond with the fabric. Again, check your care label:
- Tumble Dry: The easiest method is to tumble dry your garment on a low or medium heat setting for about 20-30 minutes.
- Iron: If you don’t have a dryer or your care label advises against it, you can iron your gear. Place a towel or cloth over the garment and iron on a low, gentle setting (no steam).
Maintain Your Gear for Longevity
By following these steps, you’ll restore the water-repellency of your Gore-Tex gear, ensuring you stay comfortable and dry on all your future adventures. Remember to clean your gear regularly and reapply DWR as needed – typically once or twice a season, depending on how often you use it. A little care goes a long way in extending the life of your valuable outdoor equipment.