Outdoor Research & Nikwax Partner to Eliminate Synthetic Chemicals
Patrik Orcutt 10.12.23
Outdoor Research, the well-known Outdoor brand has just partnered with Nikwax in an attempt to help save the environment we all love so much from PFC’s found in all DWR Coatings. Perfluorinated compounds, commonly referred to as PFAs, are a group of synthetic chemicals that have played a pivotal role in the production of durable water repellent (DWR) jackets and various other outdoor gear. These chemicals are prized for their exceptional water and oil repellent properties, making them a crucial component in creating weather-resistant garments. PFAs work by forming a thin, invisible layer on the surface of the fabric, preventing water from soaking into the material while allowing moisture vapor to escape, thereby keeping the wearer dry and comfortable during rainy or wet conditions. However, the widespread use of PFAs in DWR jackets has raised significant environmental and health concerns due to their persistence in the environment and potential adverse effects on human health, leading to a growing effort to develop more sustainable alternatives in the outdoor industry.
Outdoor Research Coverage on AllOutdoor
- AllOutdoor Review – Outdoor Research Foray Jacket
- AllOutdoor Review – Outdoor Research Ferrosi Hoodie
- AllOutdoor Review – Outdoor Research Obsidian Pants
- AllOutdoor Review – Outdoor Research Foray Rain GORE-TEX Pants
As the awareness of the environmental impact of PFAs has grown, there has been a shift towards developing eco-friendly alternatives to traditional DWR treatments. These alternatives aim to provide the same level of water repellency without the harmful effects associated with PFAs. Manufacturers are now exploring various innovative solutions, such as plant-based or biodegradable DWR coatings, to reduce the industry’s reliance on PFAs and lessen their ecological footprint. This transition reflects a broader movement in the outdoor apparel sector towards sustainable and environmentally responsible practices, as consumers and manufacturers alike recognize the importance of minimizing the environmental impact of outdoor gear while still ensuring high-performance functionality.
“Nikwax is the Global Leader in Eco-Friendly, PFC-free Aftermarket DWR Treatments for Outdoor Gear and Apparel.”
“All outerwear will have its waterproof, breathability, and insulating performance fade over time. One of the primary reasons outdoor gear loses these characteristics is surface dirt, oil, and stains. These blemishes reduce the performance of all DWR treatments, causing the jacket to “wet-out” and trapping moisture against your skin or base layers, making you cold.
The first step toward revitalizing outerwear and gear is thoroughly cleaning it with an outerwear specific detergent. Regular detergent is often too harsh and contains perfumes and other chemicals that could interfere with the function of the gear’s technical fabrics. The second step is the proper application of an aftermarket DWR treatment. All Nikwax products are easy to use, safe for the environment, and ensure warmth and dryness, whatever the weather.”
Nikwax is not only for your hard shells and rain shells and they have products for most outdoor products.
Hardshells
“Hardshell outerwear is usually constructed with 2-3 layers of fabric laminated together to create a waterproof, breathable shell, offering superior protection against the elements. Revitalize the performance and breathability of hardshell gear with Nikwax Tech Wash and NikwaxTX.Direct.”
Softshells
“Softshell outerwear is softer, stretchier, and more insulating than its hardshell counterpart, offering fantastic range of motion and comfort. Revitalize the performance and breathability of softshell gear with Nikwax Tech Wash and Nikwax Softshell Proof.”
Down
“Down is one of nature’s best insulators, offering a superior warmth-to-weight ratio. Washing down gear removes surface stains and revitalizes the down itself by reversing the compaction that occurs during wear. Revitalize the performance of down gear with Nikwax Down Wash.Direct and Nikwax Down Proof.”
Gloves & Gear
“Gloves inevitably are subject to the most abrasion and grime of all outerwear, and the damage UV rays can do to tents and shelters are often overlooked. Revitalize the performance of gloves and shelters with Nikwax Glove Proof, Nikwax Waterproofing Wax for Leather, and Nikwax Tent & Gear Solarproof.”
