Durable Water Repellent (DWR) Treatment: What You Need to KnowUpdated 14 hours ago
Your Cortazu hardshell comes with a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) finish that helps water bead and roll off the outer fabric. By limiting water absorption at the surface, DWR helps maintain breathability and comfort in wet conditions.
Over time, wear, friction, dirt, and body oils can reduce the finish’s effectiveness. When water stops beading and starts soaking into the outer fabric, this is called “wetting out.”
Does Wetting Out Mean My Jacket Is No Longer Waterproof?
Wetting out alone does not mean your jacket has lost its waterproof protection. The waterproof membrane provides that protection, while DWR helps keep the outer fabric from becoming saturated.
However, a saturated outer layer can reduce breathability and make your jacket feel heavier, colder, and less comfortable.
When Should I Reapply DWR?
Wash and low-heat dry your jacket first, following the care label and our washing guide. This may restore water beading by removing buildup and refreshing the existing finish.
If water still soaks into the outer fabric afterwards, it is time to apply a suitable PFC-free DWR treatment.
There is no fixed reproofing schedule. Reapply based on how water behaves on your jacket, rather than after a set number of washes or months.
Should I Use Spray-On or Wash-In DWR?
Choose a treatment designed for technical outerwear and suitable for your garment.
Spray-on DWR is recommended for home use, especially when local or high-wear areas, such as the shoulders and elbows, need treatment.
Wash-in DWR is suitable when the whole garment needs reproofing.
A product such as Nikwax TX. Direct is available in both forms. Check the instructions for the specific treatment you choose.
Nikwax Tech Wash is a cleaner, not a DWR treatment. It can help restore the performance of the existing finish by removing dirt and oils, but it does not apply a new water-repellent finish.
How Do I Apply DWR?
Start with a clean jacket. Follow the treatment instructions to check whether the garment should be wet or dry before application.
Apply the treatment as directed. Use spray-on for the areas needing attention, or a suitable wash-in treatment for the whole garment.
Activate the DWR using low heat. After applying either spray-on or wash-in treatment, follow the treatment’s activation instructions and your garment’s care label.
Allow the jacket to dry completely, then check whether water beads on the outer surface again.
Restoring DWR when needed helps your jacket shed water and stay comfortable in wet weather.
For help choosing or applying a treatment, contact [email protected].