Waterproofing rain jackets: How to waterproof your cycling jacket with spray and wash-in

A rain jacket needs to be waterproofed when it is no longer water-repellent. This can be recognised by the fact that water no longer runs off the outer shell but penetrates the fabric. A simple test: stretch the jacket at an angle, spray it with water and shake it. If the drops do not roll off, the waterproofing has worn off. Good waterproofing keeps the jacket dry and ensures optimum vapour transport - important for cyclists who sweat a lot. Manufacturer recommendations for waterproofing can be found on the label or website. Gore Wear and Vaude offer good information, Nikwax detailed instructions. Methods: spray on and iron in or the wash-in method. Not every laminate is suitable for wash-in, so check with the manufacturer beforehand.

Impregnate rain jacket with spray

• Look out for products without PFCs, propellants and solvents, e.g. Nikwax TX direct or Fibertec Textile Guard Eco
• Clothing should be washed before spraying
• Close zips
• Only spray in a well-ventilated area, preferably outdoors
• Avoid inhalation of the spray and contact with eyes and skin
• Spray from a distance of 20 to 30 centimetres
• Wash your hands after spraying
• Dry impregnated clothing on hangers or lying flat in the open air

Make your cycling jacket water-repellent again with wash-in

• Follow the care instructions for the impregnating agent
• Remove detergent residues from the detergent compartment of the washing machine
• Load the washing drum with a maximum of two kilograms of laundry (two to three items of clothing)
• Unless otherwise stated, select the synthetic or delicate wash cycle at 30 degrees
• Spin at low speeds or do without it altogether
• Allow impregnated clothing to dry in the open air

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