The winter is retreating and our world is brimming with optimism for the arrival of spring and summer. The sun is with us a little longer each day and it is now time to pack away some of your winter wear and almost certainly time to reinvest in a bit of funky, practical spring outdoor wear.
So what’s the number one consideration for good spring and summer wear? We have done a bit of research. We have asked about and it seems to us that almost everyone is in agreement when asked the question…
“What do you look for in good spring/summer outdoor clothing?”
The answer?
“It needs to be waterproof clothing”
A little depressing if you think about. It certainly says a lot about the reliability of our weather in the UK!
Or maybe not so depressing. At Skogstad, we look at it another way. We know that you are all, in your hearts, adventurers. You understand that is OK to put on a pair of shorts and a t-shirt and head out for a hike in the hills, but it is vitally important to take some waterproof clothing with you. After all, you never know what may happen.
Our business at Skogstad is to make sure you have the right clothing for the right activity. It is all very well and good having maps or a GPS, enough water and good walking shoes, but if a shower catches you and you don’t have waterproof clothing, you could quickly get cold.
At Skogstad, we create clothing that balances every element you need to stay warm and dry, whilst also being breathable, easy to move in, comfortable, and durable. Our clothing is made for activity and adventure. Our technical waterproof clothing is waterproofed from 8000mm to 20,000mm (depending on the product) our zips are specially designed waterproof or resistant zips, and our seams are taped.
This is waterproof clothing for the very worst downpour that Britain experiences. Importantly for our spring and summer, it also breathes. You can be drenched one minute and baking the next, and Skogstad clothes will manage the change in temperatures with ease. All you need to do is rummage in your bag for your sunglasses.
So, if you want quality spring and summer waterproof clothing, you have come to the right place.
A GUIDE TO RE-WATERPROOFING
Even the best waterproof fabrics need regular care and attention to keep them performing at their best. If you notice your waterproofs no longer repel water like they used to and instead absorb it and become soggy, the time has come to reproof them. In this guide, we’ll talk you through everything you need to know about how to wash, revive and extend the life of your trusty waterproof kit, so it stays wet-weather ready.
Why is it important to reproof waterproof clothing?
Waterproof jackets and trousers use a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) treatment, which protects the fabric by causing water to bead on the surface and then roll off it, rather than soaking in. It also improves the fabric’s breathability, allowing body vapour to release effectively, keeping you dry on the inside too.
This DWR treatment, however, doesn’t last forever. Over time and through usage, it slowly wears out, and when it does, you need to wash and reproof it to keep it performing at its best.
When is it time to reproof waterproof clothing?
In short, when you notice your waterproof clothing is starting to absorb water instead of it beading on the surface. Rather than getting caught out during your adventures, you can check by pouring some water onto the high-wear points of your jacket like the shoulders and your cuffs. If the water soaks into the top layer of the fabric and ‘wets out’, it’s time to reproof.
How often do waterproof jackets need reproofing?
This will depend on how much you use it and the intensity of the activities you do in it. If you wear your jacket frequently and are out in all conditions undertaking intense activities like hiking, running and climbing, you should reproof it every 3-4 months. However, if you wear your jacket less frequently, or are out in less extreme weather, then reproofing every 6 months should be sufficient.
Cleaning myths
It’s a common misconception that washing a waterproof garment will damage it. Concerns of putting your beloved waterproof through the washing machine and dryer are understandable, but it is essential that you wash them to maintain their performance. Things like mud, sweat, body oils, and insect repellents can contaminate your clothing's DWR treatment, stopping it from working effectively and often, a good clean is enough to revive it. With any wash though, never use standard detergent or fabric conditioner as this will harm the garment’s performance. Instead, use a technical cleaner and reproofer. Before washing, always check the care label on your jacket, and make sure you prep it properly to ensure the wash is as effective as it can be.
How do I clean and reproof my waterproof clothing and what products do I need?
We’ll now talk you through how to clean and reproof your waterproof jackets and trousers using our recommended product from Grangers.
Cleaning
Using Grangers Performance Wash:
1. Ensure there is no detergent or fabric conditioner residue in your washing machine.
2. Gently rinse off any thick dirt from your garment by hand, do up all zips and Velcro and place in the machine.
3. Shake bottle then add 1 capful (50ml) into the washing machine drawer for 1 jacket. Add an extra capful for every 2 garments added.
4. Wash on a full cycle at 30°C/86°F or according to care label instructions.
Reproofing
Using Grangers Clothing Repel (wash-in):
1. Ensure garment is clean but still damp
2. Place garment in washing machine, close all zips and velcro straps
3. Shake bottle and pour two capfuls (100ml) into the washing machin drawer. Add and extra capful (50ml) for each additional garment being washed.
4. Wash on a full cycle at 30°C/86°F or according to care label instructions
5. Air-dry naturally or tumble dry if care label permits
