Your Gore-Tex waterproof hiking jacket is a vital piece of gear, designed to protect you from the elements while keeping you dry and comfortable. Proper care is essential to maintaining its performance and longevity. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to care for your Gore-Tex jacket to ensure it lasts for many adventures.

1. Regular Cleaning

While it might seem counterintuitive, regular cleaning is essential for maintaining the waterproof and breathable qualities of your Gore-Tex jacket. Dirt, oils, and sweat can clog the pores in the fabric, reducing breathability and causing the jacket to feel damp.

• Wash Frequency: Wash your jacket with a product like Nikwax's Techwash after extended use or when it looks dirty, especially after exposure to saltwater, mud, or sweat.

• Machine Washing:

  • Close all zippers, flaps, and Velcro closures to avoid snagging.
  • Use a gentle cycle with cold water (or follow the jkt's wash instructions - a lot of them are 30 degree washes).
  • Use a mild, liquid detergent like Techwash from Nikwax. Avoid powdered detergents, fabric softeners, bleach, or stain removers, as they can damage the waterproof membrane.

• Hand Washing: If machine washing isn't possible, gently hand wash your jacket using cold water and techwash.

2. Drying Your Jacket

Proper drying is just as important as washing. It helps restore the jacket's Durable Water Repellent (DWR) finish.

• Tumble Drying: After washing, tumble dry your jacket on a low or medium heat setting. The heat helps reactivate the DWR coating on the jacket’s exterior. Avoid high heat, as it can damage the fabric.

• Air Drying: If you don't have access to a dryer, hang the jacket in a well-ventilated area. Once it’s fully dry, you can use an iron on a low setting to reactivate the DWR coating by placing a cloth between the iron and the jacket.

3. Reapplying DWR Treatment

Over time, your jacket’s DWR finish will wear off. This doesn’t mean the jacket is no longer waterproof, but it may not shed water as effectively, causing the fabric to absorb water on the surface. When water no longer beads up, it’s time to reapply DWR.

• Spray-on or Wash-in Treatment: Purchase a DWR reproofing spray (we recommend TX Direct from Nikwax) or wash-in treatment from outdoor gear stores. After cleaning your jacket, apply the DWR product following the instructions provided.

• Heat Activation: Most DWR products require heat activation. After applying, either tumble dry the jacket on low or use an iron to finish the process.

4. Storage Tips

Storing your Gore-Tex jacket properly ensures that it maintains its shape and protective qualities.

• Hang it up: Avoid stuffing your jacket into a backpack or storage bin for long periods. Instead, hang it in a cool, dry place with adequate air circulation.

• Avoid Compression: Continuous compression can damage the jacket’s fabric and membrane. If you need to pack it, make sure it’s loosely folded, not crammed tightly into a small space.

5. Avoiding Common Pitfalls

Certain practices can damage the delicate waterproof membrane of your Gore-Tex jacket. Here’s what to avoid:

• Don’t Use Fabric Softeners: These can leave a coating on the jacket that interferes with its breathability and water resistance.

• Avoid High Heat: Whether drying or ironing, high heat can permanently damage the jacket. Stick to low or medium settings.

• Stay Away from Harsh Chemicals: Bleach, dry cleaning solvents, and harsh detergents can degrade the jacket’s waterproof layer. Stick with mild, non-abrasive cleaning agents designed for outdoor gear.

6. Repairing Minor Damage

Even with the best care, accidents can happen. If your jacket gets a tear or hole, you can often repair it with a Gore-Tex-specific patch or repair tape.

• Gore-Tex Repair Kit: Carry a small repair kit during hikes in case you need to make quick fixes in the field. Permanent repairs can often be done with a more durable patch or by sending the jacket to a specialized repair service.

Final Thoughts

With proper care, your Gore-Tex hiking jacket will continue to protect you from rain, snow, and wind for years. By regularly washing it, reapplying the DWR treatment, and avoiding practices that could damage the fabric, you’ll preserve its waterproof and breathable qualities, ensuring that your adventures stay dry and comfortable.