What is DWR?
When it comes to snowmobiling, having outerwear that can withstand the harsh winter elements is essential. One crucial feature in snowmobiling gear is the Durable Water Repellent (DWR) treatment. DWR serves as the first line of defense, providing water beading protection and enhancing the water resistance of outerwear garments. Let's explore what DWR is and why it is important for snowmobiling.
DWR treatments are applied during the fabric production process, ensuring that the outerwear has a protective coating. This coating allows water to bead up and roll off the surface of the garment. To witness the effectiveness of DWR, you can simply spritz a little water on the outerwear and observe how it effortlessly rolls off.
In the case of 509 outerwear, including snowmobile Mono Suits, Jackets, and Bib/Pants, all styles have a DWR coating. This means that the outerwear is designed to repel water, keeping you dry and comfortable during your snowmobiling adventures.
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The importance of DWR in snowmobiling gear lies in its ability to provide water resistance. Snowmobiling often involves exposure to snow, sleet, and wet conditions. A reliable DWR coating prevents moisture from penetrating the fabric, helping to keep you dry and maintaining your body temperature in cold environments.
We also offer DWR in some of our casual items. Visit the article Are 509 Hoodies Warterproof for more information.
Maintaining the DWR Coating
Over time and with use, the DWR coating can wear off due to factors like dirt, oils, and regular wear. When you notice a decrease in water repellency, it is recommended to re-treat the garment with a DWR product to restore its effectiveness. Nikwax TX Direct, available as a spray-on or wash-in treatment, is a popular choice for replenishing the DWR coating on snowmobiling gear.
Shop Nikwax Tech Wash
Clean and revive the performance of your 509 outerwear and gloves with Nikwax Tech Wash®. Easy to use and washing machine safe, Tech Wash properly cleans technical synthetic outerwear without damaging the fabric’s performance like normal household laundry detergents. Use before treating with Nikwax TX.Direct® for maximum waterproof performance. Safe and effective, Nikwax Tech Wash is water-based, biodegradable, and contains no PFCs, VOCs, optical brighteners, or added scent.
Shop Nikwax Direct Wash In
Restore the durable water repellency (DWR) of the waterproof/breathable fabrics on your 509 outerwear and gloves with the Nikwax TX.Direct® Wash-In treatment. Over time, technical fabrics, including GORE-TEX, get dirty and lose waterproof performance. Nikwax TX.Direct® completely restores surface water-repellency and enhances breathability. Nikwax TX.Direct lasts several washings and does not need to be reapplied after every wash like other treatments.
Shop Nikwax TX Direct Spray On
Nikwax TX. Direct® Spray-On is a quick, easy, and safe way to restore the Durable Water Repellency (DWR) and maintain the breathability of your 509 outerwear and gloves. Simply spray it on your clean garments and let it dry. By removing the need to machine dry your outerwear and gloves, it’s a gentle yet effective solution for that trusty and well-worn piece of gear that you refuse to get rid of. The spray-on application also lets you directly treat areas that need the most love, like elbow, knee, and seat areas.
It is important to note that while a DWR coating enhances the water resistance of a jacket, it does not turn it into a fully waterproof garment. A DWR coating provides an increased level of water resistance, but prolonged exposure to heavy rain or immersion in water may eventually saturate the fabric. For complete waterproofing, additional features like waterproof membranes and taped seams are necessary.
Regular maintenance of your snowmobiling outerwear, including re-treating the DWR coating when needed, is crucial for optimizing its performance and longevity. By investing in gear with a reliable DWR coating and ensuring its proper care, you can stay dry and comfortable throughout your snowmobiling journeys.
