Why fleece garments keep you warm…
Fleece fabrics are used to provide lightweight, insulating mid layers and additionally hats and gloves to keep you warm. Fleece fabrics are made from synthetic fibres. The construction of the fabric allows air to be trapped between the fibres and warmed by body heat to provide insulation for the user.
Water compromises the insulating properties of fleece…
Although the individual fibres of fleece cannot absorb water, it is possible for water to become trapped in the spaces between the fibres. The accumulation of water reduces the insulating properties of fleece and also causes weight gain; fleece can hold up to 50% of its weight in water!
This reduces the comfort of the user causing them to feel wet and cold, but more importantly the reduction in insulation is dangerous and in severe cases can lead to hypothermia.
Use Nikwax Polar Proof® when your fleece soaks up water…
Your fleece garment could be soaking up water just because it is dirty. First, try cleaning it with Nikwax Tech Wash®, and if it is fairly new, or recently re-waterproofed, the Durable Water Repellency (DWR) will be revitalised just from cleaning. But once the garment has been thoroughly worn, you will need to add DWR using Nikwax Polar Proof®, after cleaning first with Nikwax Tech Wash®.
Cleaning properly can be as important as waterproofing…
Using the right cleaning product is as important as using the right waterproofing product. Conventional detergents leave behind a thin water-absorbent film on materials, which masks their water repellency. Therefore, always clean your waterproof garments with Nikwax Tech Wash®. Remember that dirt itself works against water repellency, so regular cleaning will enhance performance.
Nikwax Polar Proof® has been specifically designed and optimised for fleece garments; it leaves a flexible water repellent treatment on individual fibres allowing moisture vapour to pass through, maintaining breathability and optimising performance in wet weather. Additionally, it inhibits pilling of fleece fabrics, prolonging the life of gear.
Nikwax Polar Proof® is easy and quick to apply in a washing machine and ensures that the treatment goes right through the garment. The highly Durable Water Repellency (DWR) of Nikwax Polar Proof® develops on air drying. Therefore the need for tumble drying is removed, saving energy.
• Nikwax Polar Proof - High performance waterproofing for fleece items.
• Adds water repellency, maintains breathability and optimizing performance in wet weather.
• Inhibits pilling of fleece fabrics, prolonging the life of gear.
• Water-based, biodegradable formula contains no fluorocarbons or VOCs
Use Nikwax Polar Proof® in a washing machine…
For best results always clean item(s) first with Nikwax Tech Wash® in a separate wash cycle. No need to dry item(s) before waterproofing. Shake well before use. Follow care label instructions.
- Remove all detergent build-up from the detergent dispenser.
- Place clean items(s) in washing machine (maximum 3 items).
- Use 50ml for 1 item and 100ml for 2-3 items.
- Wash according to care label.
Air dry or tumble dry on a low setting if care label allows. To maintain waterproofing always wash with Nikwax Tech Wash®. Do not use detergents.
Nikwax Polar Proof® can be applied by hand…
For best results always clean item(s) first with Nikwax Tech Wash®. No need to dry item(s) before waterproofing. Shake well before use. Follow care label instructions.
- Use gloves, immerse clean garment(s) in 6L hand-hot water in sink or bowl.
- Use 50ml for 1-2 item.
- Agitate to mix, leave to soak for 5 minutes, then agitate thoroughly.
- Rinse in cold water until water runs clear.
Air-dry or tumble dry on a low setting if care label allows. To maintain waterproofing always wash with Nikwax Tech Wash®. Do not use detergents.