Durable Water Repellent (DWR) Treatment: What You Need to KnowUpdated 2 hours ago
High-performance outdoor jackets, including Cortazu hardshells, are treated with a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coating. This finish causes water to bead up and roll off the surface rather than soaking into the fabric. DWR helps maintain breathability by keeping the outer layer dry, which is essential for moisture vapor to escape from the inside.
Your Cortazu jacket comes pre-treated with a high-quality DWR coating. This treatment not only enhances water repellency but also reduces the accumulation of dirt, which further helps maintain breathability and overall performance. However, it's important to note that DWR coatings are not permanent.
Over time—and especially after repeated use, exposure to dirt, abrasion in high-contact areas like shoulders, elbows, knees, and the seat—the DWR treatment will degrade. When this happens, you'll notice your jacket beginning to “wet out”: water stops beading on the surface and starts soaking into the outer fabric. While this doesn’t mean your jacket is no longer waterproof (the inner membrane is still intact), it can affect breathability and comfort, making the jacket feel colder and heavier.
Reapplying DWR: When and How
When to Reapply:
You should consider reapplying DWR when you see signs of wetting out. This usually happens after prolonged use, multiple washes, or exposure to oils and dirt. There's no strict schedule—it depends on how often and in what conditions you use the jacket—but regular outdoor users might need to reapply once or twice per season.
How to Reapply:
We recommend using Nikwax, a trusted brand in waterproofing and garment care. There are two main Nikwax products to consider:
Nikwax Tech Wash: A gentle detergent designed to clean waterproof garments without damaging the DWR coating. It's ideal for regular maintenance and can often restore some water repellency just by cleaning off dirt and oils that block the coating.
Nikwax TX.Direct: This is the actual DWR reproofing treatment. It restores water repellency and revives breathability. TX.Direct comes in a spray-on and wash-in form—choose based on your jacket's construction and your preference. Spray-on is better for 3-layer garments, as it targets only the outer surface.
Both products are readily available at outdoor gear shops and online retailers.
Taking these steps ensures your hardshell remains protective, breathable, and comfortable for years to come.