Question about Outdoor gear and washing/nikwax

[porsche4life]

Ok so I have a Stoic Welder jacket and it says to wash it with Nixwax Techwash. Now I realize the water resistance will be affected but can I wash this jacket regularly? Techwash is $$$! Maybe only use the techwash when I know I will be needing the water resistance of the jacket? It also says to use a proofing spray, I assume they mean the polar proof? Again that doesn't need done every time does it?


Stoic Welder Lo Softshell - Men's from Backcountry.com
Nikwax Tech Wash - 10 oz. at REI.com


And then on my new Scarpa boots, they are mostly nubuck. What should I use for cleaning and care of them? It again says Nikwax in the guide but not what kind of nikwax

Scarpa Barun GTX Hiking Boots - Men's at REI.com

[Tishabet]

I have never owned a softshell so cannot really comment on yours, but have always thought (and heard) that Nikwax products are excellent all around.

My opinion on shells in general is that you should wash sparingly. Granted my opinion is really based on GoreTex shells, but I've found that that factory finish/water beading is really the best. The more you wash the more the fabric naps and you end up with an outer layer which wicks water when you want the water to bead. That's not to say I don't wash my shells... I do. But, I wait until they really need it... washing your shell is not the same as maintaining it IMHO. Wait until it stinks, and definitely do your research re: drying technique.

As for your boots, I'd recommend no treatment at all. The boots you've bought have a GoreTex liner... if you start putting waterproofing or other treatment on them, you're negating the breathability of the the membrane. I would just leave them alone... I have yet to experience a boot where the upper wears out before the sole, and I doubt those Scarpas are resolable.

[porsche4life]

The tag in the shell recomenda frequent washing, and by the odor it has taken on I'd say it's due for a wash.

[LWJ]

Wash it. Follow the Nikwax directions. It will be fine.

[RWebb]

Nikwax was created for a reason - use it

[porsche4life]

You going to pay for it Randy?

[RWebb]

sure, no problem

I have a bunch of the Nikwax containers

just write your address on the back of a $500 bill and send it to me; I'll send you one

regular washing will remove the water repellent feature from the garment as will body grunge - the Nikwax keeps it working like new

[jyl]

The reviews on that jacket say it is "water resistant", like for a short time in a light drizzle, but not more water proof that that. If that is true (I don't have any idea) and you are a frequent washer, I wouldn't spend lots of money on techwash. Spend it on a waterproof shell, either a very light one to layer over this one when it starts raining, or a heavier one to bring instead of this one on wet days.

Not being sassy, it's just my feeling that water "resistant" usually just means you're soggy 10 minutes later than then next guy.

[RWebb]

no matter what, you're "hosed"

[porsche4life]

I realize the jacket is not waterproof. If I'm going to spend all day in the rain I will bust out my Marmot rain jacket. I would just like the stoic to be able to handle 10mins or so in the rain. It seems to do that well right now.

[RWebb]

uh....

then just leave it alone

[porsche4life]

Well I gots ta wash it somehow..... It stinks...

[porsche4life]

Washed it with some stuff called Sport Wash. Supposed to not harm water resistance and leaves no residue. I guess we will see, the jacket doesn't stink though....

[porsche4life]

Originally Posted by Tishabet

As for your boots, I'd recommend no treatment at all. The boots you've bought have a GoreTex liner... if you start putting waterproofing or other treatment on them, you're negating the breathability of the the membrane. I would just leave them alone... I have yet to experience a boot where the upper wears out before the sole, and I doubt those Scarpas are resolable.

I'm more worried about cleaning the boots when they get dirty. I know the GoreTex will keep me dry and if they are like my Montrails the insole will be dead long before the upper is bad.