Rain Gear For Hiking
Once you make your purchase, the best way to prolong the life of your waterproof/breathable investment is to keep it clean. All the test jackets come with a factory-applied water-repellent finish (DWR) that causes rain to bead up on the outer surface. This coating can become compromised by dirt, campfire smoke, even oils from your skin. Washing with a mild detergent and a trip through the drier on low heat often reactivates the beading properties. (Note: Always check manufacturer recommendations first; some advise using a nondetergent soap like Nikwax Tech Wash, while others recommend a small amount of powder detergent.)Eventually, the DWR will wear off; you'll know because the shell will consistently "wet out" or appear to soak up water and it won't breathe properly. Some manufacturers recommend certain DWR-restoring products. Gore's Revivex and Tectron's Outdoor Fabric Protector performed the best in our review of DWR treatments