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The first use of the jacket kept my completely dry in the rain. The water would bead and could be shaken off very easily. This walk lasted 4hrs and it rained for about 3hrs. At the end I took off my waterproof shell and was completely dry.

I was very muddy at the end of this walk so I washed all my waterproof/resistant gear shell, trousers, socks and gloves. I used my washing machine with standard detergent that I regularly use. I air dried the clothing.

The next walk I went on I noticed that the water was not beading on the surface and after 20 minutes I felt damp. By the end of the 4hr walk I was really wet underneath my shell.

I looked online and it seems that there are products that apply water resistant chemicals through wash cycles or spray. Is it advisable to use these? Was it a mistake to use standard detergent? Any other recommendations?

If it supports discussion/feedback I can list the products and provide URLs. The jacket was expensive and I would not expect low performance like this.

GettingItDone
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1 Answers1

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From Rab's website (https://support-uk.rab.equipment/hc/en-us/articles/360013402518-How-to-wash-a-waterproof-jacket-):

Washing waterproofs tips

Rinse your washing machine out before use. This clears any leftover detergent and softeners that might damage the fabrics and coatings. Clean the detergent drawer and then run one or two rinse cycles. Make sure the pockets are empty. Close all zips, pockets, and Velcro fastenings. Use a non-biological liquid detergent, liquid pure soap, or a specifically formulated technical cleaner such as Rab Shell wash or NikWax Tech Wash. Place the wash solution in the detergent drawer and if you are reproofing at the same time (recommended) then add Rab Eco Proofer or NikWax TX Direct Wash-In in the conditioner compartment. Machine Wash on a gentle, cool setting. Check the white care label, but 30ºC or 40ºC is usually ideal both for your jacket and the environment. After spinning at a low speed (400) hang the garment on a line to dry naturally. If the care label allows, tumble dry your garment for 20-30 minutes on a low heat setting which will activate the reproofing agent. If a tumble dryer is not available, iron on a medium heat ensuring you use a clean cloth as a barrier between the iron and garment. If you are in the field, you can also hand wash your jacket if you don't have access to a washing machine. Keep the water cool, detergent as gentle as possible, rinse it well, and give it plenty of time to dry, out of strong direct sunlight.

Paul Lydon
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