Nikwax Waterproofing Spray & Cleaning Products
Nikwax makes waterproofing and cleaning products for outdoor gear — the most practical way to maintain and extend the performance of jackets, boots, sleeping bags, and base layers. At Dwights, Nikwax is our recommended brand for gear maintenance across the full range of products we sell.
Nikwax products are water-based and PFC-free — safer for users and the environment than traditional solvent-based treatments, and highly effective. The range covers specific formulations for different gear types, which matters: using the wrong treatment on the wrong fabric can damage coatings or reduce breathability.
Key Products by Gear Type
- Waterproof jackets (GORE-TEX, hardshells): Nikwax Tech Wash (cleaner) + TX Direct Wash-In or Spray-On (DWR reproofing). The Tech Wash + TX Direct combo is the standard for hardshell maintenance.
- Down jackets & sleeping bags: Nikwax Down Wash Direct (cleans and reproofs in one step) + Down Proof (additional DWR treatment). Critical: use down-specific wash, not Tech Wash on down products.
- Leather hiking boots: Nikwax Footwear Cleaning Gel + Leather Conditioner or Fabric & LeatherProof. Maintains leather suppleness and waterproofing.
- Synthetic/GORE-TEX boots: Nikwax Footwear Cleaning Gel + Fabric & LeatherProof Spray. Works on both leather and synthetic uppers.
- Softshell jackets: Nikwax SoftShell Proof Wash-In or Spray-On. Maintains DWR on stretch fabrics without reducing breathability.
- Base layers: Nikwax Base Wash — maintains moisture-wicking properties of merino and synthetic base layers without degrading the fibres.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know when my jacket needs reproofing?
Test it: get the jacket wet and watch what happens to the water. If water beads up and rolls off, the DWR is working. If water spreads into the fabric and the jacket "wets out" (darkens and becomes saturated), the DWR needs refreshing. Wetting out doesn't mean the jacket leaks — the membrane underneath still provides waterproofing — but it significantly reduces breathability and makes the jacket feel cold and heavy. Reproof with Nikwax TX Direct as soon as you notice wetting out.
Can I use regular detergent to wash my waterproof jacket?
No — regular detergents leave residues that degrade DWR coatings and reduce breathability. Use Nikwax Tech Wash specifically, which cleans without leaving residue and is formulated for waterproof-breathable membranes. Fabric softener is particularly harmful — never use it on waterproof gear. After washing with Tech Wash, follow with TX Direct to refresh the DWR.
How often should I treat my outdoor gear?
As needed rather than on a fixed schedule — check your gear's performance. Jackets used in heavy rain or washed frequently may need reproofing once or twice per season. Boots used regularly on NZ wet tracks should have their DWR refreshed every few months during active use. Sleeping bags and down jackets should be washed infrequently (once per season) with Down Wash Direct to preserve the down's natural oils. Base layers can be washed regularly with Base Wash — it's designed for frequent use.