What is DWR?
Durable Water Repellent (DWR) is a treatment applied to fabrics to create a water-resistant barrier, causing water to bead up and roll off the surface. Šumska uses PFC-free DWR, ensuring that your gear remains eco-friendly while performing reliably.
How DWR Works
DWR forms a layer of microstructures on fabric, increasing surface tension so water slides off rather than soaking in. By keeping the outer layer dry, DWR supports waterproof-breathable fabrics like those in your Šumska softshell items.
How Long Does DWR Last?
The durability of DWR depends on use. Frequent, intense wear breaks it down faster, while occasional wear extends its life. Factory-applied DWR generally lasts longer than reapplications.
Testing Your Gear: Sprinkle water on your garment. If it beads up, your DWR is working well. If water soaks in, it’s time to refresh or reapply.
Restoring DWR with Heat Activation
When DWR weakens, you can restore it with these steps:
- Wash: Machine-wash with a gentle detergent, followed by a double rinse to remove detergent residues that can impact DWR.
- Tumble Dry or Iron: For best results, tumble dry on medium heat (40°C / 104°F) for 40-50 minutes to fully reactivate the DWR. Alternatively, if a dryer isn’t available, you can use a low-heat iron with a cloth barrier (no steam) to achieve similar results.
After restoring, check by sprinkling water on the fabric; it should bead up. If it doesn’t, a new DWR layer is necessary.
Applying a New DWR Treatment
When reactivation isn’t enough, reapply a new DWR layer with a wash-in or spray-on product.
Wash-In Treatments: Options like Nikwax Tech Wash or Grangers Performance Wash provide complete coverage, including seams and zippers, and are convenient for full-garment treatment.
Spray-On Treatments: For precise application, ReviveX® Durable Water Repellent or Fibertec Blue Guard Spray-On work well, treating only the exterior to maintain breathability.
Follow the specific product instructions for best results, and if heat activation is required, repeat the drying process to bond the DWR fully.
Choosing Between Spray-On and Wash-In DWR
Both options restore water repellency, but wash-in treatments apply DWR to the entire garment, which can reduce breathability by covering interior layers designed to wick away sweat. Spray-on treatments, in contrast, focus only on the outer layer, preserving the garment's moisture-wicking properties for better ventilation and comfort.
Environmental Commitment
Šumska’s PFC-free DWR keeps your gear performing at its best while staying kind to the planet—sustainable, stylish, and reliably dry.
