The membrane of bike clothing can only work properly if the waterproofing is intact. If the outer material becomes saturated with water, the pores that would otherwise channel sweat to the outside are blocked.
1. pump sprays such as Fibertec's Green Guard RT (500 ml, €14.95) are a little more difficult to apply, but can reach even the most inaccessible corners. Pleasant to use because there is hardly any spray mist. Particularly suitable for clothes with inner lining.
2. wash-in: Waterproofing products such as Nikwax TX.Direct Wash-In (300 ml, 14 euros) are simply washed in the machine and are very convenient to use. Particularly suitable for parts with a waterproof membrane or PU coating.
3. spray cans are easy to use, but produce a lot of spray mist that should never be inhaled. For example, Dr Wack F100 impregnator (400 ml, €15.99).
"Only PFC-free is really good for the environment"
Interview with Tomasz Kruk, Nikwax
What exactly is the purpose of impregnation?
It ensures that the outer material does not soak up water and absorbs less dirt.
Will my rain jacket leak if the waterproofing is no longer in order?
No, it will not leak. However, as a soaked or soiled outer material impairs the breathability of the membrane or the entire jacket, body moisture quickly accumulates inside the jacket, leading many people to think that water is penetrating the jacket from the outside.
Can I reactivate the impregnation?
You can first try to refresh the original waterproofing using a special detergent. This is often sufficient, as dirt can also destroy the DWR (Durable Water Repellent). Regular washing, preferably three to four times a year, refreshes the original waterproofing by removing water-attracting dirt.
When do I need to re-impregnate and with what?
As soon as the outer material absorbs water, the jacket should first be washed and then re-impregnated. Caution: Normal household detergents leave detergent residues. Wash-ins have been specially developed for jackets with a waterproof or breathable membrane or PU coating. Spray-ons are better for waterproof, breathable jackets with a moisture-wicking inner lining. Sprays are also suitable for re-impregnating particularly exposed areas such as seams, shoulders or elbows.
Waterproofing agents have often been criticised for the use of propellants and toxic fluorocarbons, or PFCs for short. What should you look out for when buying?
There are already some brands that also offer PFC-free products and work without propellants. Only PFC-free is completely safe for people and the environment, as both C8-PFC and C6-PFC-based impregnating agents are harmful to the environment and health. Due to their high water solubility, they very quickly end up in our drinking water.
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Stefan Frey
Editor
