Waterproof Jackets | Common Questions

If you've ever found yourself wondering about waterproof jackets—from how they're made to how to wash them—you're in the right place. We're about to dive into some of the most common questions people have about these essential pieces of outdoor gear. 

Curious about why you might opt for a high-end waterproof jacket? Check out our article on "Why buy Gore-Tex Jackets" to get the lowdown on the benefits of this top-notch material. And if you already have a waterproof jacket and want to keep it in tip-top shape, don't miss our guide on "How to Keep Waterproof Gear Waterproof", where we share some handy tips for maintenance.

With these guides and the answers we’re about to explore, you’ll be all set with information to make the most of your waterproof gear. Let’s get into it!

Can Waterproof Jackets be Washed?

In short - yes, they definitely can be washed. We advise not to wash waterproof jackets with regular detergents, softeners or soaps and instead opt to use a specific detergent from either Nikwax or Grangers, followed up with a re-waterproofing spray from them also.

Ever noticed how your waterproof jacket might start absorbing water during a downpour, rather than repelling it? This could be due to a phenomenon known as “wetting out,” which means your jacket isn't functioning at its best anymore. Thankfully, the fix is quite simple: give it a good clean.

For any outdoor enthusiast, a waterproof, breathable jacket is crucial. It keeps you comfy and dry, no matter the weather. But, substances like dirt, oil, and sunscreen can clog up the jacket’s outer layer over time, affecting its performance. This is where a specialised cleaner from Nikwax or Grangers comes in. Regular detergents can leave a residue that actually draws water in, causing the wetting out effect. By using the right product, you can eliminate these residues and restore your jacket’s functionality.

If you’re hesitant about washing your high-tech gear, don’t be! Here are a couple of signs it’s time for a wash and how to go about it:

Signs You Need to Wash Your Jacket:

• Wetting Out: If water starts to spread across the fabric surface, it’s a sign that the durable water repellent (DWR) treatment needs attention.
• Visible Dirt and Stains: Life outdoors can get messy—cleaning your jacket can help remove dirt and stains effectively.

How to Clean Your Jacket:

1. Prep Your Washer: Make sure to remove any residual detergent from the dispenser first.
2. Washing: Check your jacket’s care label and the Nikwax package for proper dosage. Close all zippers and Velcro, then wash and rinse thoroughly.
3. Re-waterproofing: If your jacket continues to absorb water post-wash, consider re-applying a waterproof treatment like Nikwax TX.Direct® Wash-In.
4. Drying: Follow the care instructions on your jacket. Nikwax doesn’t require heat activation, so air drying or using a low-heat dryer cycle is fine.

Are Waterproof jackets also Windproof?

Are waterproof jackets windproof? Generally speaking, yes, but it's not a guarantee. Waterproof jackets are designed to keep the rain out, using materials like Gore-Tex to prevent water from getting through. These materials are typically good at blocking wind as well. However, windproofing involves additional considerations, like using tightly woven fabrics or special coatings to stop the breeze in its tracks.

While many waterproof jackets offer excellent wind protection, it’s always a good idea to check the specific features if windproofing is a high priority for you. And if you’re really looking to focus on wind protection and are okay with compromising a bit on waterproofing, you might want to explore Softshell jackets.

Got questions about how windproof a jacket is, or need a recommendation? Feel free to reach out to us!

For those who want to dive deeper into the distinctions between windproof and waterproof gear, including what makes a jacket excel at one or both, check out this detailed guide from Adventure Bagging on technical clothing metrics.

What are Waterproof Jackets made of?

Wondering what magic keeps you dry in your trusty rain jacket? It all boils down to the materials and design techniques used to craft these essential pieces of outdoor gear. Let’s break down what waterproof jackets are really made of.

Rain jackets primarily rely on a combination of coatings and laminates to prevent water from seeping in while allowing sweat vapor to escape. The core technology here involves a waterproof/breathable membrane. This membrane is typically made from materials like expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE), polyurethane (PU), or polyester, which are then either laminated to or coated on protective fabrics. The laminate approach is like wallpaper glued to a wall, offering robust protection and breathability. In contrast, coatings work more like paint spread on a wall, providing good waterproof performance and breathability at a more affordable price.

Additionally, most waterproof jackets are treated with a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) finish. This treatment makes precipitation bead up and roll off the surface, further enhancing the jacket's ability to keep you dry. However, DWR finishes wear off over time and require regular maintenance to remain effective—more on this in our detailed guide on how to keep your rainwear performing like new.

For further protection, the jacket’s membrane or coating is sandwiched between fabric layers:

• 2-Layer Jackets: Ideal for everyday use with their quieter fabric, these consist of the membrane attached to the outer fabric with a loose liner inside.
• 2.5-Layer Jackets: These are the lightest options, using a thin coating or laminate with a protective print inside the outer fabric.
• 3-Layer Jackets: The most robust type, designed for harsh conditions, featuring a membrane tightly sandwiched between an outer fabric and a liner.

If you're curious about the specifics of these materials or have other questions about your jacket's waterproofing features, feel free to dive deeper into the technology or contact us for more detailed information.