As the awareness of the environmental impact of PFAs has grown, there has been a shift towards developing eco-friendly alternatives to traditional DWR treatments. These alternatives aim to provide the same level of water repellency without the harmful effects associated with PFAs. Manufacturers are now exploring various innovative solutions, such as plant-based or biodegradable DWR coatings, to reduce the industry’s reliance on PFAs and lessen their ecological footprint. This transition reflects a broader movement in the outdoor apparel sector towards sustainable and environmentally responsible practices, as consumers and manufacturers alike recognize the importance of minimizing the environmental impact of outdoor gear while still ensuring high-performance functionality.

“Nikwax is the Global Leader in Eco-Friendly, PFC-free Aftermarket DWR Treatments for Outdoor Gear and Apparel.”

“All outerwear will have its waterproof, breathability, and insulating performance fade over time. One of the primary reasons outdoor gear loses these characteristics is surface dirt, oil, and stains. These blemishes reduce the performance of all DWR treatments, causing the jacket to “wet-out” and trapping moisture against your skin or base layers, making you cold.

The first step toward revitalizing outerwear and gear is thoroughly cleaning it with an outerwear specific detergent. Regular detergent is often too harsh and contains perfumes and other chemicals that could interfere with the function of the gear’s technical fabrics. The second step is the proper application of an aftermarket DWR treatment. All Nikwax products are easy to use, safe for the environment, and ensure warmth and dryness, whatever the weather.”