Good quality waterproof kit is an absolute essential once Autumn and Winter roll around. I’ve learned the hard way that there’s nothing worse than heading out into the hills – or even just on a rainy commute – only to realise your so-called “waterproof” jacket is letting in more drizzle than it’s keeping out. Shelling out for a high-quality jacket, waterproof trousers, or a pair of the best walking boots can feel like a serious investment at first, but I’ve come to see it as exactly that: an investment.
The beauty of good kit is that, if you look after it properly, it doesn’t just last a season or two; it can carry you through years of wet walks, windswept hikes, and muddy adventures. The secret is simple: care and maintenance. Re-waterproofing your gear is one of those little rituals that makes all the difference – not just for comfort, but for longevity. It’s something I’ve built into my routine as the seasons change, and I can honestly say it’s saved me money, time, and a lot of soggy socks.
How Does Waterproofing Work?
So how does waterproofing actually work? In simple terms, it’s about blocking rain from getting in while still letting sweat escape. Most good kit uses a membrane layer – full of tiny pores small enough to stop raindrops but big enough to let moisture out. On the surface, a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coating makes rain bead and roll away. When that wears off, the fabric “wets out,” feeling heavy and clammy even if the membrane underneath is still doing its job. Re-waterproofing restores that outer layer, keeping your gear light, breathable, and performing properly.
Different Types of Waterproofing
There are many products out there for re-waterproofing your kit and which one you choose will depend on your piece of kit, budget, and personal preference.
Wash In Treatments
Perfect for an all-over refresh of trousers and lightweight waterproof jackets.
- Nikwax TX.Direct Wash-In – £12 – £15 - Restores DWR on waterproof breathable fabrics like Gore-Tex or eVent. Water-based, eco-friendly, and machine-safe
- Grangers Performance Wash-In – £10 – £13 - Similar performance to Nikwax; treats the whole garment evenly and keeps breathability intact
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Spray On Treatments
Best for targeting high-wear areas on your favourite cold weather gear.
- Grangers Performance Repel Plus Spray – £9 – £15 - Ideal for shoulders, hoods, and cuffs. Fast, easy, and doesn’t affect lining breathability
- Nikwax TX.Direct Spray-On – £13 – £16 - Spray version of the classic TX.Direct. Great if you prefer not to machine wash
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Waxes and Creams
Designed for leather or waxed cotton, perfect for keeping your walking boots or walking shoes going season after season.
- Grangers G-Wax – £4 – £8 - Conditions leather boots and wax jackets while restoring water repellency
- Barbour Thornproof Wax Dressing – £18 – £35 - Classic choice for waxed cotton jackets. Can be softened with a hair dryer or cloth for even application
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Silicone Sprays and Sealants
Budget-friendly and versatile; ideal for canvas, tents, or hiking backpacks.
- Fabsil Universal Protector – £6 – £8 - Affordable, effective for tents, backpacks, and canvas. Quick touch-ups
- Kiwi Extreme Protector – £7 – £10 - Silicone-based, works on footwear, hammocks, and mixed fabrics
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Specialist Formulas
Tailored for specific gear types.
- Nikwax Down Wash – £12 – £14 - Maintains loft and water resistance for down jackets and sleeping bags
- Nikwax SolarProof – £20 – £26 - Adds waterproofing and UV protection for tents, backpacks, and sun-exposed gear
- Nikwax Softshell Proof – £10 – £15 - Maintains stretch, breathability, and water repellency in softshell jackets
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Basic Tips For Re-waterproofing Kit
Clean First
Always wash your jacket, trousers, or gear before reproofing. Dirt, oils, and old detergents prevent treatments from working properly. Use a specialist cleaner like Nikwax Tech Wash or Grangers Performance Wash.
Choose The Right Product
Match your treatment to the gear: wash-in for full garments, spray-on for targeted areas, wax for leather, and silicone sprays for tents or canvas.
Apply Evenly
Spray or soak the fabric thoroughly, paying attention to high-wear areas like shoulders, hoods, cuffs, and elbows. Don’t miss the seams.
Follow The Instructions
Check the label for temperature, drying method, and curing times. Some treatments require heat (tumble-dry or iron under a cloth) to fully activate.
Test Your Kit
After reproofing, sprinkle some water on the surface. It should bead and roll off. If not, a second application may be needed.
Reproof Regularly
Keep an eye on performance. Water no longer beading or fabric feeling heavier when wet are signs it’s time to treat again.
Store Correctly
Avoid folding wet gear tightly for long periods – hang to dry fully first. Proper storage extends the life of your waterproofing.
Extra tip: Always wash your gear before applying a waterproofing treatment. Dirty fabrics prevent coatings from adhering properly and can shorten the life of your waterproofing.
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