The Paddler ezine Issue 53 Late Spring 2020 | Page 103

Spending time off the water is the perfect opportunity to show your kit some due care and attention, making sure it’s ready for wherever your next adventure takes you. 19 03. 04. Waterproofs Most waterproofs are treated with a DWR finish to keep the outer fabric from becoming soaked or ‘wetting out’, but it’s essential to wash your waterproof kit to maintain its performance. You can use a sponge or put it in the washing machine using a tech wash or non-detergent cleaning agent. If washing alone doesn’t do the job and your kit is still absorbing water after washing, you will need to reproof and use heat to reactivate the DWR treatment. Storing your kit Storing your kit when you’re not using it is crucial to maintaining optimal performance on and off the water. Footwear should be clean, reproofed and completely dry, before being stored in a well-aired, dry place away from direct heat and sunlight, to avoid damage and keep them in great condition. An insulated jacket’s performance relies on its filling and compressing it can cause it to lose its insulating effectiveness, so these should be hung rather than folded or stuffed. Finally, you’ll probably need your waterproofs year-round, so keep these hung up in a dry place away from direct sunlight. COTSWOLD Water droplets should bead and roll off but if your kit has become clingy, saggy and water sinks into the outer fabric, it’s time to reproof and refresh the DWR coating. In partnership with