Why do I need to waterproof my kit?
Waterproof items have a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coating which acts as a waterproof membrane for the fabric. Over time, dirt and grime can build up, masking the DWR, so it will start to absorb rainwater making you feel wet and cold. Waterproofing products can restore and enhance your kit’s durability, keeping it performing at its best.
Waterproofing products are easy to apply – either in a washing machine or by direct application to your equipment.
There are two types of Nikwax waterproofing products. Green cap products are for cleaning – your kit should always be cleaned first with the appropriate Nikwax product before it’s re-waterproofed, as normal washing detergent leaves behind residues that can inhibit the protective layer.
Choose purple cap products for proofing. Nikwax waterproofing products restore the water repellence of your kit and revive breathability.
Nikwax TechWash 
- Cleans effectively, restores water repellency and revives breathability.
- Versatile technical cleaner for outdoor clothing and synthetic sleeping bags.
- Unlike regular detergents, Tech Wash preserves and even restores the Durable Water Repellency.
Nikwax TX.Direct
- Adds Durable Water Repellency to waterproof clothing, ensuring your gear stays dry and performs well.
- Not only does it repel water but also helps maintain the breathability of your jacket or gear, preventing the build-up of moisture inside.
- A simple wash-in product that can be applied via a washing machine, making it convenient and quick.
Nikwax Footwear Cleaning Gel
- Cleans waterproof footwear and helps restore Durable Water Repellency.
- The gel is PFC-free and non-flammable, making it a safe and environmentally friendly option for maintaining your footwear.
- Regular cleaning with this gel keeps your footwear in top condition, revitalising both breathability and waterproofing.
VIEW NIKWAX FOOTWEAR CLEANING GEL
Nikwax Waterproofing Wax for Leather
- Easy to use high performance cream for all smooth leather footwear.
- PFAS-free and aerosol-free, ensuring a more environmentally friendly solution.
- It helps maintain the leather’s suppleness, ensuring that your footwear or gloves stay comfortable.
VIEW NIKWAX WATERPROOFING WAX FOR LEATHER
Nikwax Fabric and Leather Proof
- Easy to use sponge-on waterproofing for all fabric, leather and combination footwear.
- Adds water repellency and revives breathability without softening leather.
- Enhances the performance of your footwear, keeping your feet warmer and drier.
VIEW NIKWAX FABRIC AND LEATHER PROOF
Nikwax Nubuck and Suede Proof
- Easy to use sponge-on and spray-on waterproofing for all nubuck and suede footwear.
- Adds water repellency, revives breathability and maintains the texture of your footwear.
- The product is PFC-free, water-based, and does not contain harmful aerosols, making it eco-friendly.
VIEW NIKWAX NUBUCK AND SUEDE PROOF
Nikwax Tent and Gear Solarproof
- Enhances the UV resistance of your tent and gear, preventing fabric deterioration caused by sun exposure.
- It restores water repellency to gear, including tents and backpacks, ensuring they remain dry and functional during use.
- Easy application – just spray it on clean, wet fabric and allow it to dry.
VIEW NIKWAX TENT AND GEAR SOLARPROOF
Nikwax Tent and Gear Solarwash
- Technical cleaner and UV blocker for all tents, backpacks and outdoor covers.
- Cleans effectively, increases fabric strength and protects against UV deterioration.
- Revives the performance of your tent and gear, extending their active life.
- Always choose ‘waterproof’ over ‘water resistant’ for better protection against the elements.
- Make your waterproofs last much longer by using a waterproof cleaning product after an expedition.
- If you can see dark patches appearing on your waterproof jacket or trousers, then it’s wetting out. This is when you need to re-proof your kit.
- Check what fabric your clothing/kit is before buying waterproofing solution. Some products are designed specifically for different materials. e.g down wash.
- Nikwax products can be applied on wet or dry material – not need to wait until your gear is dry to reproof it.
- Treat your boots properly – before and after expedition.
- Take a set of gaiters to keep the water out of the top of your boots.
- Practice putting up and taking down your tent so you can do it very quickly if it’s raining.
- Don’t wash your waterproofs with normal washing powders. They will damage your kit and won’t be as effective.
- If you borrow clothing or kit from a friend or kit store, treat it with Nikwax to ensure it’s waterproof before your expedition.
- You can get FREE professional advice before you buy, at your nearest GO Outdoors, Blacks, Millets, Ultimate Outdoors or Tiso store (Scotland only).
