Best waterproofing sprays

[Nisse]

Wearing GoreTex or similar and expecting the breathability of a mesh garmet is a common mistake

 

[Missoni]

For fabric boots - Leder-Bok, maintains breathability; leather boots Leder-Gris wax oil...

 

[Nishy]

Apart from my motorcycle kit.......the only synthetic water proof I has an Isotex membrane. I have moved back to waxed cotton for most of my outdoor pursuits. I may be incorrect but while the Fabsil will waterproof will it not neutralise the breathability of the fabric?

Apparently not, but I have my doubts as materials become more complex, it may affect the performance.

 

[Grarea]

I use Nikwax Tech Wash and TX Direct wash-in on my jacket. It works well but you do need to make sure you follow the instructions, and I normally run a boil wash with the machine empty to get rid of any residual detergent first.

With jackets the spray doesn’t actually waterproof them it just restores the water repellent coating. If you have a membrane jacket and the membrane’s compromised it’s going to leak no matter what.

For boots I prefer leather and plenty of good old wax polish.

I agree with you entirely there.
I need to read the destructions again, but I think you can shove it in a bucket instead. (too lazy to go and look).

I'm an Analogy convert, it’s super breathable and unlike gore tex if water does somehow get in it shifts it out again.

Yep. I got convinced when I realised that search and rescue use it.
I do neither so good enough for me for sure.
As I understand it, I think it doesn't measure as 'waterproof' by the method that is used.
However, I have never gotten wet in my second hand coat. Doesn't soak through even with a rucksack.
I love it.
Am hoping to get a lighter weight one for the warmer months.

 

[Chris]

As I understand it, I think it doesn't measure as 'waterproof' by the method that is used.

Correct, it would fail a hydrostatic head test and that’s why it’s so breathable. It works by the outer layer being water repellent and the pile on the inner layer uses capillary depression to move water outwards, so anything that comes through the outer gets pushed back out again before getting through the inner. The effect is analogous to animal fur, hence the name. Another benefit is that you don’t need taped seams and a tear can be simply sewn back up and it’s still waterproof.

The main company that uses Analogy is Páramo, the clothing’s made in Colombia in a factory that provides jobs, training and refuge to vulnerable women. The clothing's also designed for long life and when you don’t want it you can send it back and they’ll either recycle it or repair it and sell it at their second-hand outlet. In return you get a discount off your next purchase, for an Analogy garment you get £50 off a purchase over £125.

 

[Nisse]

If cycling hard a jacket in Gore-Tex Shakedry will shine, got great weather protection and really impressive breathability.

 

[Grarea]

Nice, thanks.

the pile on the inner layer uses capillary depression to move water outwards, so anything that comes through the outer gets pushed back out again before getting through the inner.

Ah hah. I had forgotten the capillary action bit. Clever stuff.

Another benefit is that you don’t need taped seams and a tear can be simply sewn back up and it’s still waterproof.

Ah yes, that was another thing that sold me on it. I do like a thing that can be repaired.
I plan on having mine a pretty long time.