Got my Goretex waterproof wet and filthy on the first muddy ride for ages yesterday. I have some Nikwax wash left but I need to buy some reproofer. Just go for the Nikwax or is there something people have found better?
only ever used nikwax on my cycle gear although I've never washed my waterproofs. what goretex is it?
I prefer NikWax to Grangers, but has to be the dedicated one - the combined wash and re-proofer is rubbish.
Usually nikwax when it's on offer. As above, don't use the combined one.
I always hand wash, never machine wash becuase in my experience it always ruins the taped seams. Even hand washing can ruin taped seams.
Goretex doesn't need reproofing - just tumble dry on a low/cool setting..
Was also going to post saying it shouldn't need reproofing as the goretex itself is the waterproofing...
Do you guys not reapply a DWR coating every so often to help the water bead off the fabric?
I was always thought that although the Goretex is the waterproof part you were meant to reapply the DWR every so often to stop the outer layer ‘wetting out’ as otherwise the breathability was compromised.
And modern eco-friendly DWRs just donmt last as long as the older ones with their evil chemicals.
TomKP
Just stops the jacket breathing as well IMO if you apply anything to the outer layer. I've used Goretex sailing clothing for years and never reproofed any of it.
I don't top it up it doesn't need it.
I was always thought that although the Goretex is the waterproof part you were meant to reapply the DWR every so often to stop the outer layer ‘wetting out’ as otherwise the breathability was compromised.
This is correct. If you don't reproof it it will still be waterproof but not breathable, as an outer fabric holding a layer of water will not breathe until it dries out, obviously.
Do not use a washing machine to wash. Use a clean bucket that you only use for specialist washing liquid e.g. tech wash, or pure soap. Then reproof with spray. It works much better like that.
