Maximum Performance: Care and Protection for Your BLACKYAK Shell with Nikwax®

After a winter full of challenges, your BLACKYAK shell has been exposed to snow, rain, dirt, and sweat – yet it has reliably protected you. However, even the most advanced materials require regular care to maintain their full performance. Waterproof clothing relies on a durable water-repellent (DWR) treatment, which gradually wears off due to dirt, abrasion, and constant environmental exposure.

By cleaning and reproofing with Nikwax, you can restore breathability, maintain water repellency, and extend the lifespan of your BLACKYAK shell. Only with proper care will your outdoor gear remain high-performing in the long run.

How Nikwax Works: The Science Behind Water Repellency

Waterproof technical clothing not only protects against rain and snow but also regulates body temperature by transporting moisture from the inside out. To preserve this function, fabric fibers must remain clean and free of residues. This is where Nikwax comes in.

Nikwax uses a specialized water-repellent polymer structure that flexibly bonds to fabric fibers. This technology is based on TX.10i, an elastic water-repellent elastomer that moves with the fabric rather than wearing off over time. Unlike conventional fluorocarbon-based treatments, Nikwax contains no harmful chemicals like PFAS and does not require additional heat activation to achieve its full protective effect.

The elastic, water-repellent molecules in Nikwax products ensure that water does not penetrate the fabric while maintaining breathability. The result is a long-lasting and sustainable solution for protecting your shell without altering its original material properties.

The Two-Step Treatment: Cleaning and Waterproofing

Step 1: Cleaning with Tech Wash®

All waterproof and breathable fabrics have a durable water-repellent (DWR) coating that causes water to bead off instead of being absorbed. When this layer is affected by dirt or detergent residues, the material starts to "wet out," losing its water-repellent function.

Tech Wash® is specially formulated to clean waterproof clothing without damaging the protective layer. It removes dirt, sweat, and oils while restoring breathability. Regular washing with Tech Wash® helps maintain water repellency for longer and reduces the need for reproofing.

Step 2: Reproofing with TX.Direct® Wash-In

Even with regular cleaning, the DWR treatment wears off over time due to friction, environmental exposure, and mechanical stress. If your shell no longer repels water effectively, it is time to reproof it.

TX.Direct® Wash-In is a powerful treatment that restores water repellency. Rain and snow will reliably bead off the surface again instead of penetrating the fabric. Unlike conventional spray-on treatments, this method works directly within the fibers, ensuring an even and long-lasting effect.

Why Regular Care is Essential

Even the best outdoor gear loses functionality over time if not properly maintained. Waterproof clothing keeps moisture out while allowing sweat to escape – but only if the fabric remains clean and the DWR treatment stays intact.

Regular care with Nikwax ensures:

• Longer lifespan for your BLACKYAK shell by protecting it from wear and tear.
• Maximum breathability to prevent moisture buildup inside.
• Reliable water repellency to keep you dry even in extreme conditions.

End-of-Season Care: Storing Your Shell for Summer

At the end of the winter season, it is crucial to properly clean and store your shell so that it is ready for your next adventure.

1. Clean with Tech Wash® to remove dirt, sweat, and oils that can degrade the material.
2. Reproof with TX.Direct® to renew water repellency and ensure maximum performance.
3. Allow gear to dry completely before storing it to prevent mold or material damage.
4. Store in a cool, dry place without compressing the fabric too much to preserve its technical properties.

Prepare your shell for the next challenge and keep it in top condition.
Protect, care for, and maintain what protects you.