Gifts For Anglers #4: Nikwax Tech Wash & TX Direct Spray-On Waterproofing

This is one of those products that you didn't know you needed, but will never be without once you use it. Nikwax Tech Wash and TX Direct Spray-On is the best way to care for your rain gear and other waterproof breathable garments.

One of the most common complaints I hear from anglers concerning their rain gear is that it leaks - let me be the first to tell you: waterproof/breathable fabrics don't leak. Yes, seams can fail and leak, but the fabric does not leak. To understand what happens and how Nikwax Tech Wash and TX Direct Spray-On can keep your old or new rain gear functioning like new, first I have to tell you how your rain gear is made:

All waterproof garments are either two or three layer construction. To make it easy, I will just talk about three-layer garments. The outer layer (left side of image) is treated with a DWR (Durable Water Repellant). The DWR causes water to bead and roll off the garment. The inner layer (right side of image) is usually a hung or laminated mesh lining. This liner breaks-up the water vapor, created by perspiration, which helps it pass through the waterproof/breathable membrane more easily. The middle layer is the waterproof/ breathable membrane. This membrane is full of pores that are large enough to pass water vapor, but not water. When all of these layer are functioning correctly, they work harmoniously with the heat from your body to move moisture through the layers, away from your body, and, at the same time, not allowing water into the garment - pretty cool stuff, right? So why do so many people think their rain gear leaks? Here is what happens:

After wearing rain gear for a while a couple of thing happen: the DWR on the outer layer wears off which causes the fabric to "wet-out". Also, the pores in the waterproof/breathable membrane become clogged with dirt and sweat, and whatever. When this happens, the waterproof/breathable membrane will not move water vapor efficiently and, instead, will allow it to condense inside the garment. And this is why you think your rain gear is leaking - it just needs a good cleaning and a reproofing; this is where Nikwax Tech Wash and TX Direct Spray -On. come in.

Unlike regular detergents, Nikwax Tech Wash cleans and restores the water repellancy and breathability of your rain gear without leaving behind dirt-attracting residues; and it is environmentally friendly. Clean your rain gear with Nikwax Tech Wash in the washing machine just like you would any other clothing. . When it is finished, place your rain gear on a flat surface and treat it with the TX Direct Spray-On. This will add a new DWR (see, you already know the lingo) to the outer layer. Make sure you do not spray the TX Direct on a surface you are going to walk on because it will make it extremely slippery. Once dry, your rain gear is ready for action and will function like new.

I treat my rain gear with Nikwax Tech Wash and TX Direct Spray-On a couple of times each year to keep it working like new. So if you have some rain gear that has seen better days or is "leaking", give the Nikwax Tech Wash and TX Direct Spray-On a try before spending your money on new rain gear - Most likely it just needs a good cleaning and reproofing.

As a bonus, you can also reproof your canvas boat cover with Nikwax Cotton Proof or Nikwax Tent and Gear Proof for nylon covers.


Suggested Retail: $7.95 - $12.95
Where to Buy: Outdoor Gear Exchange