What is Durable Water Repellent Finish?

a man hiking in a water repellent jacket

This article is part of the Rain Gear 101 series.

Are you someone who loves outdoor activities and wants to stay comfortable and dry no matter the weather? Discover the advantages of DWR (Durable Water Repellent) technology for your outdoor gear. Whether you're into camping, skiing, hiking, or any other outdoor activities, durable water repellent gear can help you stay dry and enjoy the outdoors all year round. Our Outdoor Apparel Experts explain DWR finish and how it can enhance your outdoor experience, no matter what type of gear you use.

What is Durable Water Repellent (DWR)?

DWR is a chemical treatment that is applied to fabrics to make them water-resistant. It works by changing the surface tension of the fabric, causing water to bead up and roll off instead of being absorbed. This finish is commonly found on outer layers of clothing, such as rain jackets and hiking pants. DWR fabric isn't completely waterproof, but offers a high degree of water repellency.

Benefits of DWR Finish on Outdoor Gear

DWR finish is essential for a comfortable and enjoyable outdoor experience, as it helps keep you dry in a variety of conditions, allowing you to fully enjoy the outdoors regardless of the weather.

Quick Drying: The water-repellent property of DWR finish ensures that moisture doesn't cling to the fabric, keeping you comfortable and preventing the chilling effect of wet clothes.
Breathability: Repels water from entering exterior fabric while still allowing air to pass through. Also prevents a build-up of moisture and heat inside the garment.
Lightweight: DWR-treated fabrics strike the perfect balance between protection and movement making them ideal for those who prefer lightweight outdoor gear.
Versatility: DWR finish can be applied to a wide range of fabrics, from jackets and pants to backpacks and gloves. Adding DWR finish to your outdoor gear ensures that you are prepared for whatever weather conditions you may encounter

How Long Does DWR Finish Last?

Proper care and maintenance are essential for extending the lifespan of DWR gear. While the durability of DWR finish can vary, understanding the factors that affect its longevity can help you make the most of its water-repellent benefits. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

The lifespan of DWR clothing varies based on factors such as initial quality, frequency of use, and care.
On average, DWR finish can last from several months to a couple of years with regular use.
Factors like abrasion, dirt, oils, and detergents can gradually diminish the effectiveness of the DWR finish over time.
Regular care and maintenance, including reapplying the DWR finish as needed, can help extend the lifespan of DWR clothing.

Shop DWR Treatments

Frequently Asked Questions About Durable Water Repellant (DWR)

Yes, you can. Restoring old rain jackets is a fairly simple process that requires DWR treatment and technical wash:
1. Wash With a Technical Cleaner: Clean out any dirt, oil, sweat and other contaminants that breaks down water repellency. Use a technical cleaner made specifically for technical outwear (hardshell, softshell, and insulated jackets).
2. Try the Bead Test After Washing: While your jacket is wet, splash a little bit to test if your DWR is still active or worn out.
3. Retreat With DWR: Choose between spraying DWR treatment outside of the damp clothing, or washing your clothes a second time with DWR treatment. Check out this table for a quick comparison of spray-on vs. wash-in DWR.
4. Dry Off Your Gear: Always be sure to doublecheck your jacket’s care label before drying. Our Experts recommend tumble drying on low head to secure the bond to the fabric, or letting your clothes hang out to air dry.
Our Experts summarize washing DWR gear in these 5 simple steps:
- Step #1: Check the label for manufacturer-specific instructions.
- Step #2: Empty all pockets and remove detachable hoods and cuffs from getting damaged. Make sure that the garment is turned inside out to protect the outer fabrics.
- Step #3: Spot clean any minor stains with a dime-sized amount of cleaner and a soft nylon brush.
- Step #4: Run your gear in the laundry machine in cool water using a correct amount of NikWax Tech Wash. Run your cycle on ‘delicate’ with a low spin setting.
- Step #5: Run an extra rinse cycle at the end to make sure water repellency is still intact.
For more information for how to clean DWR gear like rain jackets and more, check out our universal ‘How to Wash A Rain Jacket Guide’.

DWR (Durable Water Repellent) finish is an invaluable asset when it comes to outdoor apparel and accessories. It keeps you dry, maintains breathability, and ensures you stay comfortable during your outdoor adventures. By understanding the benefits of using DWR finish and properly caring for your gear, you can enjoy the outdoors without worrying about getting soaking wet. If you have any more questions about DWR, head to your local SCHEELS and speak to an Outdoor Apparel Expert today!

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