Waterproof Fabrics Are Changing - Here’s What You Need To Know….
There are big changes happening in the world of waterproofs .
They're a long time coming and are great news for the environment BUT our garments are going to work a little differently and we will all need to learn how to use and maintain the new technologies……
Our waterproof clothing has worked so well for so long because the chemicals used to make them are really stable. These chemicals are made from naturally occurring carbon and flourine, however, nowhere in nature do these two chemicals naturally combine. The end result is they are so stable they never breakdown and have become known as “forever chemicals” which are now found almost everywhere on the planet; from water sources to placentas.
The outdoor industry is working hard to eliminate these chemicals from our clothing, zips and trims but it is neither a quick, nor easy job. The net result is that moving forward, our waterproof garments are going to be much better for the environment (and for humans long term) but they will behave differently from what we are used to and will require more frequent cleaning and re-proofing as a result.
To make sure you are fully informed, we have recorded three special podcasts with industry specialists to explain why these changes are happening, how they are happening, how they will affect us all, how we need to care for our garments and think about treating them more like our regular clothing. You wouldn’t wear your socks time and time again without washing so why do we think it’s okay to leave our expensive waterproof for months and sometimes even years without cleaning it? Especially when it is so easy you can do it yourself…..
Outdoor Gear Chat Episode 47: New Waterproof Fabrics: What You Need to Know - Episode 1
Cathy and Wayne are joined by Debbie Read, Head of Corporate Communications and CSR at Equip Outdoor Technologies to discuss why chemicals that have been used in waterproof garments for years are being phased out and how this will effect performance.
Outdoor Gear Chat Episode 48: New Waterproof Fabrics: What You Need to Know - Episode 2
Cathy and Wayne are joined by Laura Howe, Fabric Technologist at Mountain Equipment, to discuss how new waterproof fabrics are chosen, tested and built in to technical garment design.
Outdoor Gear Chat Episode 49: New Waterproof Fabrics: What You Need to Know - Episode 3
In this final part of three "waterproof special" podcasts, Cathy and Wayne are joined by Tim Francis Regional Trainer and Account Manager for Grangers International, to discuss why new waterproof fabrics will need to be washed and re-proofed more frequently than older garments and how you can do this simply and easily at home.
These podcasts are also available on You tube to watch with subtitles.
As discussed in the podcasts, “wetting out” will become something we see a lot more. This is when your your jacket coating can no longer bead up the water allowing it to run off, instead becoming darker and sometimes feeling clammy. It’s unlikely your jacket is leaking but it may not be able to breathe as efficiently - especially in our British wet, warm, maritime climate. To remain comfortable and dry, you may need to adjust your clothing layers underneath to manage condensation or sweat. Take a listen to our podcast below for more top tips or you can read our Buyers Guide too.